About Professor Duke Okoro
Professor Duke Okoro is a distinguished scholar, accomplished academic administrator, and seasoned environmental consultant with a remarkable career spanning academia, research, and public service. He hails from Ekrokpe Town in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria.
A man of many achievements, Professor Okoro was appointed as the Pioneer Rector of Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Delta State, a position conferred on him by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in recognition of his exceptional academic pedigree, leadership qualities, and service to the nation.
Academic Background
Professor Okoro commenced his academic journey with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech Hons) in Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Technology, Akure in 1994/1995. Driven by a deep passion for environmental sustainability and education, he proceeded to obtain a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Benin, Benin City in 2000. He further advanced his scholarly pursuits by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Environmental Analytical Chemistry from the same university in 2005.
Professional and Academic Career
An academic of outstanding repute, Professor Okoro has held several key positions in Nigerian tertiary institutions, including:
- Acting/Head of Department, Delta State University, Abraka
- Acting/Head of Department, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
- Director of International Development, FUPRE
- Member, Governing Council, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, representing the Congregation
As an educator, he has taught both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, supervised multiple research projects, and successfully mentored four Ph.D. students to graduation. His deep-seated expertise in Environmental Studies, Risk Management, and Laboratory Development Consultancies has also contributed significantly to academia and the oil and gas sector, with over 80 completed environmental studies credited to his name.
Professional Certifications and Recognitions
Professor Duke Okoro’s professional and leadership credentials are extensive. He has earned numerous fellowships and memberships with prestigious organizations, including:
- Fellow, Chemical Society of Nigeria (FCSN)
- Fellow, Nigerian Environmental Society (FNES)
- Fellow, Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (FICCON)
- Fellow, Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC)
- Member, Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (MIPAN)
- Member, International Panel for Chemical Pollution (MIPCP)
- Environmental Professional (EP), Canada
- Professional Chemist (P.Chem), Association of the Chemical Profession of Alberta, Canada
He also holds a Certificate of Achievement in Foundational Principles of Exercising Leadership from Harvard University, USA (2020).
Vision for Federal Polytechnic Orogun
Professor Okoro brings to Federal Polytechnic Orogun a dynamic vision of transforming the institution into a centre of excellence in technical and vocational education, prioritizing skills acquisition, innovation, research, and strategic industry partnerships. He is deeply committed to fostering a student-centered academic environment, promoting global standards in polytechnic education, and contributing meaningfully to national development.
Personal Attributes
Widely admired for his approachable personality, technical expertise, leadership acumen, and commitment to service, Professor Duke Okoro is not only a respected academic but also a community leader and mentor to many.
Contact:
Office of the Rector
Senator Ovie Omo-Agege Administrative Building
Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Delta State, Nigeria
Email: rector@fepo.edu.ng