By Raphael Okhiria
The pioneer Vice Chancellor of Edo State University, Professor Emmanuel Aluyor, has been celebrated with a grand send forth party which was attended by notable dignitaries and members of the academic community.
The event, which was held at the ISNO hotel in Benin City, marked the end of Prof. Aluyor’s distinguished tenure of eight and a half years as the university’s first substantive Vice Chancellor.
Speaking on behalf of the Edo State government, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, the Commissioner of Education, commended Prof. Aluyor, for his exemplary leadership and innovative contributions to the university.
Dr. Oviawe said she appreciated the former VC more when she visited the campus, the way he managed the school, the programmes, and the innovations he introduced are commendable saying whoever takes over from him should continue the work of excellence.
“I wish the tenure is renewable; we would have been clamouring for renewal. I hope we will be able to call on you when we need you”, she added.
Dr. Oviawe however presented Prof. Aluyor with a certificate of appreciation, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the institution.
In his address, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dawood Omolumen Egbefo said the occasion marked the history of the university to bid farewell and pay tributes to a leader whose tenure has left an indelible mark in the university.
Prof Egbefo further stated that the occasion is not only to acknowledge the accomplishment of our departing leader but a time for reflection, celebration and gratitude and to express our heartfelt appreciation for the dedication, vision and unwavering commitment Prof Aluyor has demonstrated throughout his tenure.
He noted that under the leadership of Prof Aluyor as the pioneer VC of EDSU has experienced remarkable growth and advancement in various spheres.
Prof Egbefo said the former VC had led with integrity, wisdom and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, resources, innovation and community engagement.
“His visionary leadership have witnessed the transformation of our university into a beacon of knowledge, enlightenment and progress”
He added that apart from all the achievement recorded under Prof Aluyor, the hall mark of his tenure is the uninterrupted academic session in the university since its inception.
He narrated how he was encouraged and supported by him when he came to the University, saying Prof Aluyor is a perfect man who has achieved a lot and has shown patience with all his staff.
“I planned to publish a book on his achievements and experiences at the university. He has helped the school gain global recognition, and I will strive to build upon or exceed his accomplishments”, He pledged.
In a welcome address, the Chancellor of the University, Dr. Aderemi Makanjuola, represented by Ayodele, lauded Prof. Aluyor’s hard work and dedication.
Justice Daniel Okungbowa, the Chief Judge of the State, also praised Prof. Aluyor’s achievements, noting the impressive assembly of friends and colleagues at the event. He prayed for Prof. Aluyor’s well-being and success in future endeavours.
The Pro Chancellor, Professor Thomas Audu, highlighted Prof. Aluyor’s achievements as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of Edo State University Uzairue.
According to him: “Governor Obaseki found it very difficult to let him go and kept extending his tenure, however said everything that has a beginning must have an end adding that Prof Aluyor is not retiring but stepping down as Vice Chancellor.”
Other attendees who expressed their appreciation included the Rector of Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, the representative of the Vice Chancellor of UNIBEN, and Hon. Kingsley Ugabi.
In his respond, Prof. Aluyor reflected on his tenure, expressing gratitude to those who supported him during his tenure as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the university.
According to him: “During my time as Vice Chancellor, I often consulted with knowledgeable individuals after discussing matters with my management. I am particularly grateful to Professor Marsel Okhakhu who has traveled abroad, and my wife, Dr. Mrs. Patience Aluyor, for their invaluable advice”.
Prof. Aluyor shared his emotions about the send-off ceremony. “I am deeply overwhelmed by the many words of encouragement I received from attendees. As Vice Chancellor for over eight years, I constantly reminded myself that there is always more to do.
“One of the lessons my father taught me is that once you think you have arrived, you lose the enthusiasm to aspire for more. This principle drove me throughout my tenure, even on the very last day when I handed over to the acting Vice Chancellor.”
Prof. Aluyor also acknowledged the support of staff and stakeholders, urging the Edo State University (EDSU) community to support his successor.
He said: “I am grateful to God for His help throughout my tenure. It was a difficult task choosing those who worked with me for the past eight years. We started from scratch, and together we achieved great things.”
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