By Rose Omoyemwen Ozabor
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare ll, CFR, says the University of Benin will witness tremendous progress and development under the leadership of Professor Bright Omoregie Edoba SAN as the 11th Vice Chancellor of the institution.
The Benin monarch commended the Federal Government and the Governing Council of the University of Benin for the choice Prof. Edoba, whom he said he can vouch for his ‘integrity’ and a disciplined professor of law.
Oba Ewuare ll made the comment when the UNIBEN VC, members of the Governing Council and management staff of the institution paid the monarch a courtesy visit on Thursday.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba Ewuare ll, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the revered royal father assured that the new VC owould bring his wealth of experience to bear in expanding the frontiers of knowledge in the University.
Oba of Benin said, “He (VC) is very close to me; and I can vouch for his integrity. Many of the chiefs here do know certain things about his background. His father was also very close to the Palace.
“The Governing Council did a very nice job! Congratulations, Professor Edoba on your new appointment. No doubt that he is equal to the task. I was very glad that he picked some salient points and critical areas that need attention, including student and staff welfare.”
He also urged the university management team to enhance the skills of its students in entrepreneurship and industrial harmony in the institution.
“When we hear of strikes, it keep us very worried, sometimes some of them can be quite violent, and intense. It sometimes disrupts the academic calendar. I am sure Professor Edoba will have a way of navigating through all that. He is skilled, he is smart, and he knows what he is doing. You have a good VC with Edoba”, Oba noted.
In his remark during the visit, the new Vice Chancellor commended the Oba of Benin for his commitment towards the well-being of the Edo people and his continued support for the development of the university.
Prof Edoba, while highlighting the agenda of his administration, pledged to leverage on the rich cultural values of Edo heritage.
While assuring the Oba of Benin of his administration’s commitment to the welfare of students and staff, the VC promised to embark on skills development across the various faculties aimed at generating a pool of income for the institution.
Prof. Edoba insisted that his administration’s vision for the university would be accomplished with the support from the palace.
He also appreciated the contributions of Oba Akenzua ll for the establishment of the university who he said donated a vast land where the university is today.
