The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has admitted a total of 15,077 students for the 2025/2026 academic session, marking an unprecedented intake in the history of the institution. This milestone was announced by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, during the matriculation ceremony speech in Benin on Thursday.
According to Prof. Omoregie, the matriculation was particularly significant as many of the fresh students were pioneers of about 20 newly-introduced courses and programmes. “At this ceremony, a total of 15,077 students are being admitted formally into the various Faculties, Schools, Centres and Programmes,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the students were admitted strictly on merit and urged them to uphold excellence throughout their academic stay. “You have been admitted on merit. Therefore, merit and excellence should be your watch words in your academic sojourn here at the University of Benin,” Omoregie stated.
Describing UNIBEN as a first-generation university and one of the most sought-after in Sub-Saharan Africa, Prof. Omoregie said the institution had, over the past 55 years, sustained its reputation for quality teaching, learning and impactful research. “In the last 55 years of its existence, the University of Benin has strived to maintain its reputation of excellence in teaching, learning and impactful research,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the university’s attention to meaningful community engagement as part of its strengths, stating that the institution was committed to producing graduates who would be valuable to both themselves and society.
Prof. Omoregie warned the students against engaging in cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice and other social vices, stressing that the university maintained a zero-tolerance policy. He emphasized the importance of academic integrity and responsible behavior, urging the students to make the most of their time at the university.
The admission of 15,077 students is a testament to UNIBEN’s commitment to providing quality education and its role as a leading institution in Nigeria. The university’s focus on academic excellence, research, and community engagement has earned it a reputation as one of the top universities in the country.
The matriculation ceremony was a significant event, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the academic journey of the students. The Vice-Chancellor’s message emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and responsible behavior, setting the tone for the students’ time at UNIBEN.
As the students embark on their academic journey, they are expected to uphold the values of the university and strive for excellence in their chosen fields. With its strong reputation and commitment to academic excellence, UNIBEN is well-equipped to provide the students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in their future endeavors.
