A civic advocacy group, Aiguobasinmwin Movement has commended the federal government and the Vice Chancellor of University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State, Professor Edoba Omoregie for lifting 10-year restriction placed on employment on the institution.
President of Aiguobasinmwin Movement, Mr. Iyamu Osaro Culture and its Secretary General Mr. Osayuki-Osa Benson-Secretary General said this on Saturday in a statement.
The group also acknowledged key reforms in the institution that will reposition the institution into global reckoning and Centre of excellence since Professor Omoregie was appointed as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the school 10 months ago.
“Employment and Empowerment: Immediately Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie took over the mattle of leadership of University of Benin, he gone out of his way to break the over 10 years barriers which has hindered the employment of staff.
“Due to his foresight, doggedness and commitment to filling the vacant positions, the Federal Government has graciously granted the University of Benin to employ the first batch of 500 staff and applications have been concluded, while those who meet up with the job requirements will be engaged by first week of October, 2025”, according to the socio-cultural group.
The statement revealed that the Vice Chancellor has also enhanced and still enhancing learning resources, approved the digitalization of the University library, provided modern technological tools to enrich the learning environment, enhancing student accommodations and lecture halls to meet growing student needs.
It stated that the University Management has promoted student well-being and mutual synergy, leveraging his global connections to attract funding and establish partnerships with international institutions, enhancing University’s research capacity and positioning the University as a hub for groundbreaking discoveries.
The statement also revealed that the institution is exploring alternative funding sources such as establishment of University of Benin Limited Liability Company, securing grants, and fostering ALUMNI Associations partnership and contributions that have reposition the institution into a global reckoning.
The pressure group, dedicated to the defence, preservation, promotion and advancement of Edo rich cultural heritage, the development, growth of Edo State and initiate/promote actions that support the well-being of Edo people, further tasked the Management of the University to sustain the newly revived Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, while working closely with accrediting bodies has revived veterinary medicine, while addressing the gaps in facilities and staffing, and align the Faculty’s Curriculum with national and global standards to restore accreditation.
