UNIBEN Alumni Applaud VC, Honour Founders, and Call for Urgent Action on Insecurity

The University of Benin Alumni Association has commended the Vice Chancellor of University of Benin, Professor Edoba B. Omoregie, SAN, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, Staff and Students, for the successful hosting of the 51st Convocation and the 55th Founders’ Day ceremonies.

The commendation formed part of a communique issued at the conclusion of the Association’s 103rd Council Meeting, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the University Senate Chambers in Benin City.

In the communique, signed by the President Worldwide, Emmanuel Oriazuwa Esq.; the Secretary General, Benjamin O. Omere; and the National Public Relations Officer, Ms Tosan Ganranwei, the Council also paid tribute to the visionary foresight of the late Dr Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, the University’s First Visitor, and other patriots who founded the institution on November 23, 1970, with just 108 students.

The Council said UNIBEN’s evolution from humble beginnings into a leading federal university is a fact to decades of dedication, leadership and commitment.

Beyond celebration, the Alumni Council expressed grave concern over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, describing the widespread kidnappings and violent crimes involving students and other citizens as “condemnable” and “unacceptable.” The Council said it was “seriously disturbed” by the apparently intractable state of insecurity which it characterized as “terrorism, kidnapping, and outright brigandage” that has afflicted many parts of the country.

The Council urged urgent and coordinated action by all levels of government and security agencies, calling for a “lasting solution” to protect students, citizens, and educational institutions.

The Alumni Council also commended the government of Edo State, under the leadership of its governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for the progress in state infrastructure development. The Council urged the governor’s administration to complete ongoing projects aimed at improving roads and easing traffic within the state, a move it said would benefit residents, visitors, and the student community alike.

Members of the Council renewed calls for strong collaboration and buy in from all stakeholders especially alumni chapters worldwide to support the continued growth and development of the University of Benin. They emphasized that sustained alumni engagement, alongside proactive partnership with government and community leaders, remains vital if the University is to build on its legacy and navigate present social challenges.

The 103rd Council Meeting brought together representatives of the Alumni Association from various chapters, who deliberated on issues affecting the University community and the wider society. The communique concluded with a call for unity, responsibility, and proactive engagement among all stakeholders in addressing the country’s present challenges.

Ms Tosan Ganranwei,
National Public Relations Officer
University of Benin Alumni Association.