UNIBEN Honors Edo Governor, Deputy with Distinguished Awards at Faculty’s Golden Jubilee
The University of Benin has bestowed prestigious awards upon Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa during the Faculty of Social Sciences’ 50th-anniversary celebrations. The ceremony, presided over by Vice Chairman Prof. Edoba Omoregie, recognized their leadership contributions since taking office on November 12, 2024.
The Distinguished Service Award was presented to Governor Okpebholo, while Deputy Governor Idahosa received the Leadership Award. Speaking at the event, Idahosa, an alumnus of the institution, expressed pride in his alma mater and highlighted the faculty’s half-century legacy of producing influential leaders and scholars.
“This faculty has been instrumental in developing outstanding professionals who have made significant contributions to both national and global advancement over the past five decades,” Idahosa remarked through a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Friday Aghedo.
During his acceptance speech, the Deputy Governor outlined the current administration’s educational priorities, emphasizing their commitment to comprehensive reforms. “Under Senator Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, we are focused on transforming the education sector, particularly in areas of accessibility and infrastructure development, ensuring no child is left behind, including those with special needs,” he stated.
Idahosa also took the opportunity to address student welfare concerns, specifically warning against cultism and other destructive behaviors. He urged students to maintain their focus on academics and positive contributions to society.
The anniversary event featured a thought-provoking lecture by Prof. Brownwell Amadasun titled “We Will All Be Consumed Unless.” The professor offered a critical analysis of Nigeria’s historical challenges, particularly focusing on ethnic and religious divisions that have influenced national development. “Our national leaders were ethnic. They laid the foundation we are struggling with today,” Amadasun observed, calling for a fundamental transformation in national leadership approaches.
The Faculty of Social Sciences’ golden jubilee celebrations are scheduled to continue with various academic and social events, including lectures, exhibitions, and alumni gatherings, commemorating fifty years of academic excellence and societal impact.
The awards ceremony marks a significant milestone in recognizing both institutional achievement and contemporary leadership in Edo State’s public service, while highlighting the ongoing dialogue about national development and educational advancement in Nigeria.
