The University of Benin (UNIBEN) Faculty of Arts has rolled out the drums to celebrate its Golden Jubilee, honouring Senator Neda Imasuen with the Distinguished Legislative Leadership Award for his contributions to public advocacy and legislative affairs.
The two-day anniversary event, which opened on Tuesday, provided a platform for reflection on the Faculty’s five decades of academic excellence, cultural influence, and alumni impact, while also charting a course for its future.
Senator Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, was represented at the event by former Edo State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Orobosa Omo-Ojo. In his remarks, he reassured the academic community of the National Assembly’s commitment to improving university funding, safeguarding academic freedom, and bridging the gap between knowledge and industry.
“Our country needs more than degrees—it needs problem solvers, ethical leaders, and courageous citizens,” he said. “Education is not just about acquiring certificates; it is about building resilience, character, and responsibility.”
Highlighting his contributions to education in Edo South, the Senator disclosed that he has awarded over 420 scholarships in the past two years, including two students in UNIBEN’s Music and Educational Management departments. He added that his office had covered Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) fees for more than 500 students, while also introducing vocational training programmes for parents in skills such as modern farming, fashion design, and traditional event services.
He further pledged support for President Bola Tinubu’s Students Loan Act, describing it as a vital step in widening access to higher education. In addition, he announced plans to train 350 youths in boundary security and committed to rebuilding the Faculty of Arts Lecture Theatre as part of his constituency projects.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Edosa Bright Omoregie, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Victor Ighineweka, described the Faculty as “a beacon of intellectual, cultural and humanistic development” whose alumni have shaped Nigeria’s academic, artistic, and political landscapes.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Professor Francis Egbokhare, addressed the theme “The Place of Humanity in an AI Era.” He dismissed fears of Artificial Intelligence replacing human potential, stressing instead that the world’s greatest challenges remain “humanistic, not scientific.” He argued that issues of values, equity, leadership, and purpose cannot be resolved by technology but by human-centred thinking.
Dean of the Faculty, Professor Osarhieme, said the Golden Jubilee offered an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of founding fathers, staff and alumni, and to recommit to the ideals of integrity, service, and academic excellence.
Chairman of the 50th Anniversary Planning Committee and Pro-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Chief Dan Orbih, urged UNIBEN to digitise its operations. “The world is moving fast. All faculties must be linked to digital technology to enhance access and relevance,” he said, while pledging to institute a grant to motivate academic excellence within the Faculty.
The celebration was graced by government officials, political leaders, academics, students, and parents. It featured cultural performances, music, and award presentations to distinguished personalities across diverse fields.
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