The University of Benin Alumni Association (UBAA) has congratulated Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), on his appointment as Vice Chancellor.
Omoregie, a senior advocate of Nigeria, was last year appointed as the 11th substantive vice chancellor of UNIBEN by the institution’s Governing Council. He has since assumed office on December 2, 2024.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its 100th Council Meeting held at the UNIBEN Senate Chambers, Ugbowo Campus, on 25th January, the alumni body commended the university’s Governing Council “for recognising an alumnus as deserving of this esteemed office.”
The association pledged its full support for the VC’s five-point agenda, which prioritizes academic excellence, vocational training, staff and student welfare, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and fostering a peaceful university environment through collaboration with unions and alumni.
“The UBAA assures the Vice Chancellor of its full support of his 5-point agenda to wit: To sustain and improve on the academic excellence, the University has been known for and to make the University a thriving hub for postgraduate training; A training hub for vocational studies for short and certificate courses; Welfare of students/staff with the provision of up-to-date facilities, training, and promotions backed with relevant payments.
“Upgrading the infrastructure in the University and sustaining the ambiance and planting of more trees to make the University more environmentally friendly; and Peaceful University environment by working in harmony and showing respect to the various staff unions and students’ union bodies. Working hand-in-hand with the alumni body; aimed at advancing the development and efficient management of the University.
Commends Government Efforts, Calls for Action on Roads, Security and Workers’ Welfare
Beyond university affairs, the University of Benin alumni body also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his leadership in revamping the nation’s refineries.
However, the alumni association urged the federal government to ensure that all refineries become fully operational to drive down the cost of petroleum products.
“The Council looks forward to all the refineries working fully and the prices of petroleum and allied products being reviewed downwards,” the UBAA communique noted.
Similarly, the association lauded Minister of Works, Engr. Senator David Umahi for steps being taken at repairs and maintenance of federal roads.
However, UBAA urged the Federal Government to prioritise the urgent rehabilitation of critical road networks, including the Benin/Warri Road; Benin/Asaba Road; and Benin/Abuja Road.
“This action should be completed before the onset of the rainy season to facilitate smoother transportation,” the UNIBEN Alumni Association stressed.
The Council also urged the Federal Government to settle outstanding arrears and dues owed to university workers to prevent another shutdown of tertiary institutions.
While recognizing the efforts of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in tackling insecurity, the alumni body called for more proactive measures to ensure lasting safety for residents and businesses in the state.
The UBAA communiqué, dated 28th January, was signed by Emmanuel Oriazuwa, Esq., President Worldwide; Benjamin Omere, General Secretary, and Tosan Ganranwei, Public Relations Officer.
