The Delta State Government has been urged to prioritise the reconstruction of the old mission road leading to Saint Vincent’s College, Okwagbe, in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The appeal was made by a former senior lecturer at Delta State University, Abraka and an alumnus of the college, Dr Matthew Odafe. He called on prominent old students to intensify advocacy for the construction of the road and other critical infrastructure within the community.

According to him, rebuilding the road would serve as recognition of the significant role the institution has played in the educational and social advancement of the area since its establishment in 1963.

Odafe noted that Saint Vincent’s College has produced eminent personalities across diverse fields, contributing meaningfully to national development. He added that the institution laid the foundation for his own success and stressed the need to preserve its heritage.

“The school gave many of us the platform to excel in life. Everything possible must be done to safeguard its legacy and improve facilities that will enhance learning for present and future generations,” he said.

He expressed concern that the college has suffered infrastructural deficits in recent years, especially following its return to mission authorities by the state government. The deteriorating condition of the access road, he noted, poses challenges for students, staff and visitors. As part of activities marking the 2026 Founder’s Day celebration, the old students’ association organised events aimed at strengthening alumni engagement and supporting current students.

Outstanding students received cash prizes, while a dinner and award ceremony was held to honour distinguished alumni for their contributions to the school and society.

Among those recognised were President-General and professor of oral literature, Prof G.G. Darah; Prof Emperor Kpangban; Col Morrison Ideh (rtd); Dr Matthew Odafe; Oma Djebah; Olorogun Sleek Oshare; Paul Agboro; Prof. David Efevwerhan; Olorogun Vincent Oyibode; Aghoghophia Otto; Tony Johnson Oniovos; Benson Otedoh; Peter Taiye Tuoyo and Ebisine Kpikpi.

Others are Patrick Kogbodi; Sylvester Pela; Dr Henry Kojo; Mr John Adams; Daniel Siloko; Robinson Djebah, among others.

The alumni emphasised the need for collective efforts to address the infrastructure gap facing the institution, urging the state government to intervene by reconstructing the mission road and upgrading facilities to reflect the school’s historic status.

Founded in 1963, Saint Vincent’s College, Okwagbe, remains one of the prominent mission secondary schools in Delta State, with a long-standing record of academic excellence and notable alumni.