Dignitaries Honor Late Professor Ochapa Onazi of Benue State University at His Burial
Esteemed dignitaries from various educational institutions and government officials paid their final respects to Late Professor Ochapa Onazi, former Pro-Chancellor of Benue State University, on September 28, 2024.
Mary Nwaeze 
A gathering of esteemed dignitaries converged at Igumale on Saturday, September 28, 2024, to honor the late Professor Ochapa Onazi, the second Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of Benue State University (BSU). The ceremony was marked by heartfelt tributes and shared memories of a remarkable academic leader whose contributions to higher education in Nigeria will be fondly remembered.
The event attracted prominent figures, including Barr. Deborah Aber, the Secretary to the Benue State Government, and Prof. Tor Joe Iorapuu, the Vice-Chancellor of Benue State University, who delivered a moving eulogy celebrating Professor Onazi's legacy and commitment to academic excellence.
Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the Plateau State Government and Arc. Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund). Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, Executive Secretary of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, also paid his respects, emphasizing the impact of Professor Onazi on the academic community.
The council members of BSU were well-represented, with Dr. Diana Ochoga and Pharm. Peter Manyam among those honoring their late colleague. Mr. Ahola Orgeh, the Acting Registrar of BSU, and Dr. Amos Otse Egwurube, the Bursar, were also in attendance, alongside Prof. Edward Omudu, the former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Prof. Abraham Idoko, Head of the Theatre Arts Department.
Former Tetfund Executive Secretary, Prof. Bogoro, and representatives from other educational institutions, including Karl Kumm University, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, University of Jos, and Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, were present to pay their respects.
The burial ceremony was also attended by members of the clergy, including Methodist Bishops and priests, alongside the local community, represented by Igumale Community Secondary School.
As the proceedings concluded, the gathering reflected on Professor Onazi's remarkable contributions to the educational landscape in Nigeria, pledging to uphold his vision for progress and development in the sector.
