In less than 24 hours after assuming office as the 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof. Edoba Omoregie has wasted no time in addressing pressing issues.
Describing the state of some facilities in the institution as “unacceptable,” the newly appointed leader expressed a strong determination to usher in meaningful change.
Prof. Omoregie, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a renowned professor of private property law, officially took over from Prof. Lilian Salami on the 2nd of December, 2024.
Speaking with journalists shortly after inspecting several facilities on campus, he highlighted the urgent need for improvement.
His tour covered Hall I, II, III, the NDDC hostel, and the clinical hostels, where he noted significant shortcomings.
“The state of many of the hostels is unacceptable, and a lot of work is needed to make them more habitable,” he declared. Drawing from his experience as a former student of the university, Omoregie pledged to prioritize student welfare, stating, “As a former student of the University, I am duty-bound to make a difference in the wellbeing of the students.”
Reiterating his commitment to creating a student-centered administration, the new Vice-Chancellor assured that the welfare and comfort of students would remain at the forefront of his agenda, as promised during his inaugural speech.
While acknowledging financial constraints, he expressed confidence in engaging stakeholders to provide modern facilities that would significantly enhance the living conditions on campus.
Prof. Lilian Salami, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, reflected on her achievements during her tenure in a valedictory speech. She outlined how her administration had tackled significant challenges, including funding limitations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and recurrent industrial actions.
“I was able to significantly improve infrastructure facilities in the institution despite the challenges posed by paucity of funds, the outbreak of COVID-19, and the incessant industrial actions,” she remarked. Salami highlighted her efforts to address staffing challenges, noting, “The ratio of non-teaching staff to teaching staff was abysmally low when we came. We were able to train and deploy non-academics to fill the gaps. Better could have been achieved if the Federal Government lifts the embargo on employment.”
As the leadership baton passes, Prof. Omoregie’s proactive stance suggests a renewed focus on elevating the standards of UNIBEN’s facilities and placing student welfare at the heart of his administration.