The Management of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has officially announced the postponement of the resumption date for the 2025/2026 academic session by two weeks. The university authorities stated that the decision was taken after careful deliberation to ensure the seamless completion of the ongoing admission process and proper preparation for the new academic session.
In a statement released by the Head of Information, Publications, and Public Relations, Dr. Sam Kpenu, the resumption, which was initially scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2025, has now been moved to Monday, November 17, 2025. The notice was addressed to students, parents, and guardians, emphasizing that the change was necessary to uphold the institution’s standards of excellence and administrative efficiency.
The announcement followed a meeting of the Committee of Provosts and Deans held on Friday, October 31, 2025. During the meeting, members of the Committee extensively reviewed the university’s readiness for the session, particularly the progress of the 2025/2026 admission exercise, which was still ongoing. After a detailed discussion, the Committee resolved that a short postponement was the best course of action to avoid administrative congestion and ensure all admitted students were properly captured before resumption.
Dr. Kpenu explained that the new resumption date would give both the admissions office and relevant departments sufficient time to conclude outstanding documentation and verification processes. He added that management’s decision was also aimed at providing incoming students with a smoother onboarding experience. “After extensive deliberations on the ongoing admission process and in order to ensure a smooth and seamless completion of the exercise, the Committee resolved to shift the resumption date by two weeks,” the statement read.
According to the management, the adjustment is not an indication of administrative delay but rather a proactive step to maintain the university’s long-standing reputation for orderliness and quality academic service delivery. The statement further emphasized that the change aligns with the institution’s goal of ensuring that no student faces unnecessary challenges during registration and the commencement of lectures.
The university management, however, expressed regret over any inconvenience that the new date might cause to students, parents, and staff. It assured stakeholders that the decision was made in the collective interest of the university community. “Management regrets any inconvenience this adjustment may cause and assures all stakeholders that the decision was taken in the best interest of the University community to allow for proper conclusion of admissions and adequate preparation for the new session,” Dr. Kpenu stated.
UNIPORT also reaffirmed its commitment to providing a stable academic calendar, adding that the temporary shift would not affect the overall structure of the 2025/2026 session. The management assured that all necessary measures were being put in place to ensure a successful start when activities resume on the new date. Students were further encouraged to use the two-week window to finalize their preparations, including registration, accommodation, and other administrative requirements.
The statement highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to improve academic and infrastructural standards, in line with its vision to remain one of Nigeria’s leading institutions of higher learning. Dr. Kpenu noted that UNIPORT has continued to prioritize academic excellence and service delivery, stressing that decisions such as this are reflective of the management’s commitment to transparency and student welfare.
Parents and guardians were urged to continue supporting their wards during this short break to ensure a smooth return to campus. The management also called on staff and departmental heads to utilize the period to finalize academic plans and prepare adequately for the resumption of lectures on November 17, 2025.
The University of Port Harcourt extended its appreciation to the general public for their patience, cooperation, and understanding, promising that the 2025/2026 academic session would begin on a strong note. “The University appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all students, parents, and staff as it continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence and effective service delivery,” the statement concluded.
