Combined Choir of both Host and Guests doing the Hallelujah song during the Concert.
By Ese Umukoro
Delta State University (DELSU) community was agog on Saturday, July 11, 2026, as Saint Paul’s Catholic Chaplaincy Choir (SPCCC), organised the 2026 Musical Concert tagged ‘One Voice, One Praise’.
Speaking during the event at the Chaplaincy in Site II, DELSU, Abraka, Chaplain of Saint Paul’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Rev. Fr. (Dr) James Urien, was full of joy as he expressed appreciation to all who attended the event. Rev. Fr. Urien also stated that some of the melodious songs rendered by the host choir, Saint Paul’s Catholic Chaplaincy Choir (SPCCC) were composed by members which showed talents and ingenuity of SPCCC. Rev. Fr. (Dr) Urien concluded by enjoining all present to enjoy the beautiful musical renditions as he solicited for support for SPCCC.
Chairman of the occasion and Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, in his remarks underscored the importance of music describing it as life and everything. He further opined that God values praises more than prayers citing how the children of Isreal in biblical times won wars because they praised God who took over their battles and gave them victory. Professor Ufuophu-Biri, in conclusion stated that man is an embodiment of music from beginning to the end and music will also continue in Heaven.
Coordinator and Convener of the SPCCC Musical Concert, Mr Christopher Okwuokei, stated that the purpose of the event was to expose the choristers and boost their confidence in singing. The choir has always served as a grooming ground for Catholic students choristers who after their graduation from DELSU, return to develop their choirs back home.
Mr Okwuokei, also appreciated the alumni of SPCCC for their support towards the success of the programme. He applauded SPCCC members for their sacrifice of combining music with studies which has led to the success of the concert. Mr Okwuokei in conclusion said that the concert was preparatory to the biennial FILM National music festival for all universities’ Catholic Chaplaincy Choirs nationwide. Other highlights of the concert were musical renditions by guest choir from Ascension Catholic Church, Abraka, special appearance by guest artistes, instrumentalist and special performance of gospel comedian.
The Host Choir, SPCCC, renderng a melodious African song during the Concert.
Dignitaries present at the musical concert included Chaplain of Saint Paul’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Rev. Fr. (Dr) James Urien, Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara and Chairman of the occasion, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, immediate past Dean of Students Affairs, DELSU, Professor Ignatius Njoseh and his wife, Mrs Angela Njoseh, Director of Instructional Resource and Teaching Excellence, DELSU, Professor (Mrs) Grace Akpochafo.
Also present were: Director of DELSU Health Centre, Dr (Mrs) Bobola Agbonle, Deputy Director of DELSU Examination Centre, Professor Anthony Eduviere, Deputy Director, Ceremonials, Information and Public Relations, DELSU, Dr. Ese Umukoro, former Chaplain of Our Saviour’s Chapel (OSC), DELSU, Dr Oghenevwede Oyovwi, Professor (Mrs) Diana Arubayi, Professor (Mrs) Patience Agbaire, Head of DELSU SERVICOM, Comrade Emuobonuvie Denedo, Secretary of SSANU-DELSU, Comrade Kesiena Ejovi, parishioners and friends of St. Paul’s Catholic Chaplaincy.