WSU Basketball recruit Ehimen Orukpe has been granted a student visa, clearing the way for him to play for the Shockers. The information came in a release from Rep. Todd Tiahrt.

"Today my office was notified by the State Department in Washington that Ehimen Orukpe was granted a student visa by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria," said Tiahrt. "I wish him great success as he makes the journey to Wichita. I hope he receives a big Kansas welcome when he arrives."

Tiahrt’s office has worked closely with Wichita State University and the State Department to ensure Mr. Orukpe had every opportunity to obtain a student visa. After attempts at securing an interview fell through last week, Tiahrt helped arrange a 7 a.m. interview this morning at the U.S. Embassy in Lagos, Nigeria, that resulted in a successful student visa approval for Mr. Orukpe.

Orupke committed to WSU in May, 2007. He has been unable to leave Nigeria due to student visa issues.