Governor Monday Okpebholo has pledged N2 billion alongside four new buses to Edo University, Iyamho, signaling a major boost to the institution’s infrastructural and academic development. The announcement came during a high-profile ceremony inaugurating the Ehi-Agenmonmen Business Administration E-Library and laying the foundation for a state-of-the-art health centre and fitness facility on the campus.
Governor Okpebholo lauded the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Adetimirin, for donating his first full month’s salary to the health centre project, describing it as “a remarkable personal sacrifice that underscores his unwavering dedication to the advancement of education in Edo State.” The governor emphasized that the state government’s commitment would now match and exceed the VC’s initiative. “We must reciprocate such dedication. Hence, we are contributing N2 billion and providing two Toyota Hiace buses along with two Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to further support the university,” Okpebholo stated.
The governor’s pledge, he noted, was not limited to the immediate donation, promising that more resources would be provided as the university progresses in its expansion. He also appealed to the institution’s founding visitor and former governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, to participate in the ongoing development projects, stressing, “This university holds a special place in my heart, and I encourage all stakeholders to contribute to its growth.”
The ceremony also highlighted the philanthropic efforts of Edo business leaders. Ehi-Agenmonmen, a prominent entrepreneur, donated the E-Library for the Business Administration faculty, while businessman Peter Omoh Dunia funded the new fitness centre. Both projects are designed to enhance student learning, research, and physical well-being, reflecting a growing culture of private support for public education initiatives.
Senator Oshiomhole praised Governor Okpebholo’s proactive engagement with the education sector, revealing his initial unawareness of the university’s increased subvention. “I was under the impression that the monthly subvention stood at N150 million, but it has been raised to N250 million. This is a commendable step toward strengthening the institution,” Oshiomhole remarked. He further acknowledged the governor’s swift resolution of long-standing challenges affecting medical students at Ambrose Alli University, noting, “Your leadership restores faith and breathes life into projects once considered stalled or unattainable.”
Prof. Victor Adetimirin, the Vice-Chancellor, described the governor’s visit as both historic and timely, marking his first official engagement with Edo University since assuming office. He disclosed that a formal request for an increased subvention by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Olusegun Akinyinka, culminated in a swift rise from N100 million to N250 million within just 20 days. “This development demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing our students and staff with an environment conducive to academic excellence,” the VC said.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to transforming the university into a world-class institution, adding, “We are determined to complete these projects within record time. Our students deserve nothing less than top-tier facilities and support, and this government partnership is vital in achieving that goal.” He also noted that the state government had provided vehicles to aid the execution of his official duties earlier this year, further reflecting the collaborative spirit between the university and Edo State authorities.
As the event concluded, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to sustained support for Edo University, assuring that greater milestones lie ahead for both students and staff. “Our vision is clear: to establish Edo University as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement.
With the combined efforts of government, management, and private philanthropists, the institution is poised for unprecedented growth,” he affirmed, signaling a promising future for higher education in Edo State.
