Igbinedion University Holds 19th Special Senate in Honour of Founder’s 91st Birthday

Igbinedion University, Okada, on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, held its 19th Special Senate session to celebrate the 91st birthday of its Founder and Chancellor, His Excellency Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CFR, the Esama of Benin Kingdom.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, speaking on behalf of the Senate, staff, students, and alumni, described Sir Igbinedion as a visionary leader and philanthropist whose bold decision to establish Nigeria’s first private university transformed the nation’s educational landscape.

Professor Ezemonye noted that at a time when private university education was still uncharted, Sir Igbinedion recognized the urgent national need and took the initiative. “His resolute vision and faith in Nigeria’s future birthed this institution, now a beacon of hope and excellence,” he said.

He highlighted that the university’s modern infrastructure and dynamic academic environment reflect the founder’s dream, while its graduates—spread across the world as doctors, lawyers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders—remain the greatest testament to his foresight. “They are the dividends of his investment and the enduring gifts to our nation,” the Vice-Chancellor added.

The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to uphold Sir Igbinedion’s legacy of excellence, integrity, and leadership in education. The session concluded with tributes, presentation of gifts, and prayers for the Chancellor’s continued health, peace, and fulfilment.