Delta State Governor-Elect and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has inaugurated the Transition Committee that will enable the next government to hit the ground running.

Inaugurating the transition Committee on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023, at the Unity Hall, Old Government House, Asaba, the Governor-elect said that the formal inauguration of the Transition Committee heralds the journey to the commencement of a new administration come May 29, 2023 and expressed his profound gratitude to the good people of Delta State for their vote of faith and confidence in him and the Peoples’ Democratic Party.

“It is incumbent on us to reciprocate this mandate by midwifing a smooth transition process that will enable the next government to hit the ground running. Naturally, the expectations of the people are high given the overwhelming support that we received, winning in 21 out of the 25 Local Government Areas. For emphasis, this is a mandate for consolidation and growth, for investment and economic reform, and for making the youth the centrepiece of our policies and programmes. Clearly, our people believe in our M. O.R.E agenda, which is designed to advance the State in all aspects of infrastructural and human capital development, as well as economic wellbeing”, he said.

According to the Governor-elect, the men and women appointed into the Transition Committee possess the requisite knowledge, wisdom, capacity, and experience, essential for the assignment, saying that; “They have been part of this journey, and understand that the incoming administration needs to start on a sure footing. Their task is to put in place the necessary structures and means that will enable the incoming administration to effectively implement its policies and programmes from day one”.

Rt Hon Oborevwori said that arising from interactions with the people of the State during electioneering campaigns, and building on the solid foundations that have been laid by the current administration, it was necessary a transition process is put in place that will provide strategic direction for the next administration.

The Committee, he stated, is to submit presentations in the following thematic areas:

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION AND STRATEGY

FISCAL POLICY AND PUBLIC FINANCE

INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES

HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & CREATIVE INDUSTRY

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND JOB CREATION

PEACE AND SECURITY

MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRIES

ENVIRONMENT, WATER RESOURCES, AND HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

ENERGY, OIL, AND GAS

“Suffice it to say that the Committee is expected to set short, medium and long terms targets for the administration and accommodate any other critical sector that may have been left out as it relates to the M.O.R.E agenda”, the Governor-elect said.

He expressed appreciation to the State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for his wisdom and counsel and for always pointing “us in the right direction”, describing him as a man with exceptional leadership qualities.

“To the Committee, I expect you to complete and submit your work within the next 21 days. I eagerly look forward to your recommendations for the successful take-off of the next administration. With God’s grace and enablement, we shall do MORE to ADVANCE Delta State”, he stated.

The Governor-Elect thereafter inaugurated the Transition Committee as follows:

PROF. EMMANUEL NWANZE – CHAIRMAN
DR. KINGSLEY EMU – MEMBER
DR. BARRY GBE – MEMBER
CHIEF SUNDAY ONORIODE – MEMBER
CHIEF TILIJE FIDELIS – MEMBER
MR. IFEANYI EGWUNYENGA – MEMBER
MR. JOHNBUL EDEMA – MEMBER
HON. SAMUEL MARIERE – MEMBER
DR. KINGSLEY ASHIBUOGU – MEMBER
ENGR GOODNEWS AGBI – MEMBER
MR. ABEL ESIEVO – MEMBER
MR. DARLINGTON IJEH – MEMBER
PRINCE KELLY PENAWOU – MEMBER
MRS. CORDELIA ANYANGU – MEMBER
HON. JOAN ADANIOMA – MEMBER
HON. PALLY EGHOVIE – MEMBER
HON. SHOLA DAIBO – MEMBER
MRS. GEORGINA EVAH – MEMBER
MRS. CHRISTABEL OBIUWEVBI – MEMBER
PHILOMENA EDEDEY – MEMBER
MRS. SHIMITTE BELLO – MEMBER
DR. MRS. EVELYN ALUTA – MEMBER
MRS. ROSELINE AMIOKU – MEMBER
HON. JOHN NANI – MEMBER
MR. MOFE PIRAH – MEMBER
BARR. GEORGE OROGUN – MEMBER
MR. IKECHUKWU MADUEMEZUE, ESQ. – MEMBER
MR. OVIE EMUAKPOR – MEMBER
HON. GODKNOWS ANGELE – MEMBER
HON. PEREZ OMUON – MEMBER
MR. EZEKIEL OKOH – MEMBER
MR. GODSPOWER ENERHO – MEMBER
MR. ISAAC WEYINMI AGBATEYINIRO – MEMBER
MR. DONALD PETERSON – MEMBER
MR. EUGENE UZUM – MEMBER
MR. ISIOMA OKONTA – MEMBER
MR. ODINIGWE DANIEL ODIGIE – MEMBER
MR. EMMANUEL EYAKAGBA – MEMBER
HON. ONORIODE AGOFURE – MEMBER
MR. AUGUSTINE OGEDEGBE – MEMBER
RT. HON. (BARR.) BASIL GANAGANA – MEMBER
HON. JOHNSON ERIJO – MEMBER
CHIEF ALLISON OGIDIGBEN – MEMBER
CHIEF FAVOUR IZOUKUMOR – MEMBER
OLORI ATUWATSE III – MEMBER
MISS ORODE UDUAGHAN – MEMBER
REV. JUSTIN C. OKOROJI – MEMBER
ERARAWEWHO JUNIOR UYERO – MEMBER
OKODOZOR UKUBOKEYE – MEMBER
CHRISTIAN ONOGBA – MEMBER
MR. KENNEDY UZOKA – MEMBER
AUSTINE AYEMIDEJOR – MEMBER
JOHN MUTU – MEMBER
PROF. IKOMI ROBERT – MEMBER
HON. PASCAL ADIGWE – MEMBER
RT. HON. EMMANUEL OKORO – MEMBER
JOHN ASHIMA – MEMBER
APOSTLE DR. OKONYE CYRIL IFECHUKWUDE – MEMBER
REV. GIDEON OGHENERUEMU OYIBO – MEMBER
HON. SOLOMON IGHRAKPATA – MEMBER
HON. (CHIEF) FERGUSON ONWO – MEMBER
HON. ENGR. EMEKA NWAOBI, FNSE – MEMBER
BARR. MRS. LYNA ALIYA OCHOLOR – MEMBER
COMR. GOODLUCK OFOBRUKU – MEMBER
COMR. OSANAKPA AUGUSTINE – MEMBER
AMB. CAROLINE OROBOSA USIKPEDO – MEMBER
SONNY EKEDAYE – MEMBER
BARR. CHRIS IFEANYI OSAKWE – MEMBER
BARR. POSSIBLE SOLOMON AJEDE – MEMBER
EFE TOBOR JOSIAH – MEMBER
EZE HENRY EKENE – MEMBER
EMEKA UMERAH BIDOKWU – MEMBER
PROF. FESTUS ARUNAYE – MEMBER
BARR. STELLA ANETOR – MEMBER
HON. PRINCESS PAT. AJUDUA (Ph.D.) – MEMBER
HON. ANTHONY ELEKEOKWURI – MEMBER
RT. HON. FESTUS AGAS – MEMBER
DR. AKPOVETA ISAAC – MEMBER
HON. EMMANUEL IGHOMENA – MEMBER
HON. BEN IGBAKPA – MEMBER
MIDENO BAYAGBON – MEMBER
BARR. ANDREW ORUGBO – MEMBER
SEN. EMMANUEL AGUARIAVWODO – MEMBER
REV. FR. CHRISTOPHER EKABOR – MEMBER
BARR. VAL ARENYEKA – MEMBER
DR. MICHAEL IFEANYI OSUOZA – MEMBER
CHIEF OWIN ERIRHOMURU – MEMBER
PROF. HOPE EGHAGHA – SECRETARY

Responding, the Chairman of the Transition Committee, Prof Emmanuel Nwanze promised that they will carry out the assignment diligently, saying that “You have chosen wisely”.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

Mr. Peter Obi, Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), is leading with 86,285 votes in the five local government areas of Edo so far declared at the state collation centre of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

With 18,219 votes, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Presidential Candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is next to Obi, while Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has secured 15,040 votes.

MetroWatch reports that results for the presidential election in Edo state was declared by the State collation officer, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo.

See the results below;

Igueben LG
Registered Voters 50,557
Accredited voters 13004
APC – 2419
LP – 6449
NNPP – 64
PDP – 3530
Total valid votes – 12683
Rejected votes 321
Total vote cast 13004

Esan Central LG
Registered Voters – 61,373
Accredited voters – 19411
APC – 4558
LP – 10192
PDP – 3692
NNPP 91
ZLP – 110

Esan North East LG
Registered Voters – 95175
Accredited voters – 24875
APC – 2589
LP -18973
PDP – 2091
NNPP 146
ZLP – 149
Total valid votes – 24236
Rejected 629
Total votes cast – 24865

Egor LG
Registered Voters – 222178
Accredited voters – 49110
APC – 3978
LP – 40160
NNPP – 298
PDP – 1766
ZLP – 547
Total valid votes – 47697
Rejected – 1413
Total votes cast – 49110

Esan South East LG
Registered Voters – 81076
Accredited voters – 20057
APC – 4675
LP – 10511
NNPP – 61
PDP – 3961
ZLP – 73
Total valid votes – 19589
Rejected votes – 438
Total votes cast – 20027

BleedingPen:


https://metrowatchxtra.com/2023/02/26/edo-oshiomhole-apc-lp-win-senatorial-seats-pdp-loses-out/

Mr. Nmoye Israel, popularly known as Cyano, a 400 level student of Dentistry of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), has emerged president of the institution's Students’ Union Government (SUG), CAMPUS GIST reports.

This was on Tuesday 14th February, 2023, as students of the University voted to elect a new set of executive members of the Students' Union to pilot the affairs of the UNIBEN SUG for the next one year.

CAMPUS GIST reports that Israel polled a total of 3,166 valid votes cast to beat his closest rival and second-time aspirant, Mr. Ogunseri Scott from the Faculty of Physical Sciences, who garnered a total of 2,752 votes to emerge second.

The exercise, which began early hours of the morning across the various polling units at both the Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses, however, recorded low turn out as only students who had paid their tuition fee up to date were allowed to vote.

Our correspondent who monitored the voting process, reports that the exercise was relatively peaceful at the various polling units across the two campuses safe for few students who complained that they were not allowed to vote owing to late tuition payment.

The University Management had earlier issued a statement, as part of the electoral guidelines, that only students who paid their tuition fee as at 4pm Monday 13th February, 2023, would be allowed to vote or participate in the exercise.

Meanwhile, it was a tight race for some of the elective offices, especially the Presidency. The election was also full of intrigues and surprises as aspirants for the positions of Vice Presidency and Secretary General enjoyed a ‘last minute miracle’ to beat their leading rivals.

Although, as at the time of filing this report, the winners are yet to be formally announced by the Students' Electoral Commission, headed by the Dean of Students as Chairman, but results across the 14 faculties have since been declared. The new SUG president is the founder of popular Edo-based lecture house, Gifted Hands.

The victory of the new Students' Union leaders comes as a ‘special’ valentine's gift to the winners and their supporters who shunned the lover's day celebration to exercise their franchise. They are expected to be sworn in soon, followed by elections into the Students' Representative Council.

Full List of elected UNIBEN 2022/2023 SUG leadership below;

1. President - NMOYE ISRAEL (aka Cyano)

2. Vice President - IDEMUDIA DIVINE

3. Attorney General - GODSWILL AWODIGARI

4. Secretary General - RITA APEJI

5. Assistant Secretary General - OMORUYI CLINTON

6. Director of Finance - EHIS IRABOR

7. Director of Socials - MARCELLUS UCHE

8. Director of Sports - AGHEDO DESTINY

9. Director of Welfare - OKORO ANDREW

10. PRO - KOSI GERALD (UNIBEN JOLLOF)

Some students who spoke to CAMPUS GIST, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the process, while lauding the ELECO for their efforts. They were, however, of the opinion that it was high time the institution started adopting the online voting system as done in other institutions.

The prestigious University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, in Edo State, has, shockingly, been displaced from the top-100 ranking table of universities in Nigeria, for the first time in ‘modern history’ since its over fifty years of existence as an institution.

This is according to the latest ranking of universities released by Webometrics for the first quarter of 2023, obtained by CAMPUS GIST, on Monday. While the varsity ranked 15,812th in the World, it struggled to take 734th position in Africa, coming 148th in Nigeria.

UNIBEN had in 2012 ranked overall best University in Nigeria, according to the Webometrics ranking of World Universities. This was under the administration of Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin (of blessed memory), as Vice Chancellor. Pundits say the latest ranking of UNIBEN, far below several other federal, state and private institutions in the West African country, is “shocking.”

Meanwhile, on the latest rankings, the University of Ibadan (UI) retained its position as the overall best University in Nigeria, ranking 18th in Africa and 1,117th in the World. Surprisingly, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) was displaced from its 2nd best position by the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, which took 25th spot in Africa and 1,304 in the World. UNILAG now ranks 1,543th in the World, 32nd in Africa and 6th in Nigeria, falling four steps lower.

Similarly, Covenant University, a private faith-based school in Ota, Ogun State, ranked 1,342nd in the World. While the varsity took 26th place in Africa, it claimed 3rd best position in Nigeria.

The University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT) ranked 1,376th in the World, 27th in Africa and 4th in Nigeria; while the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka ranked 1,423rd in the World, 30th in Africa and 5th in Nigeria.

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, ranked 1,822nd in the World, 44th in Africa and 7th in Nigeria; while Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, ranked 1,985th in the World, 52nd in Africa and 8th position in Nigeria.

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) ranked 2,088th in the World, 44th in Africa and 9th in Nigeria; while Landmark University, another private university ranked 2,266th in the World, occupying 65th and 10th positions in Africa and Nigeria respectively.

The Webometrics university ranking is a ranking system based on the university’s web presence, visibility, and web access.

Contrary to the views held by some people, it is not a ranking of the websites of universities; rather it is a ranking of universities.

Coordinators of the ranking are scientists working at one world-class public research institution with long experience in metrics-guided evaluation.

Webometrics ranking uses both webometric (all missions) and bibliometric (research mission) indicators.

The ranking’s primary objective is to promote open access to the knowledge generated by the university.

The prestigious University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, in Edo State, has, shockingly, been displaced from the top-100 ranking table of universities in Nigeria, for the first time in ‘modern history’ since its over fifty years of existence as an institution.

This is according to the latest ranking of universities released by Webometrics for the first quarter of 2023, obtained by CAMPUS GIST, on Monday. While the varsity ranked 15,812th in the World, it struggled to take 734th position in Africa, coming 148th in Nigeria.

UNIBEN had in 2012 ranked overall best University in Nigeria, according to the Webometrics ranking of World Universities. This was under the administration of Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin (of blessed memory), as Vice Chancellor. Pundits say the latest ranking of UNIBEN, far below several other federal, state and private institutions in the West African country, is “shocking.”

Meanwhile, on the latest rankings, the University of Ibadan (UI) retained its position as the overall best University in Nigeria, ranking 18th in Africa and 1,117th in the World. Surprisingly, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) was displaced from its 2nd best position by the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, which took 25th spot in Africa and 1,304 in the World. UNILAG now ranks 1,543th in the World, 32nd in Africa and 6th in Nigeria, falling four steps lower.

Similarly, Covenant University, a private faith-based school in Ota, Ogun State, ranked 1,342nd in the World. While the varsity took 26th place in Africa, it claimed 3rd best position in Nigeria.

The University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT) ranked 1,376th in the World, 27th in Africa and 4th in Nigeria; while the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka ranked 1,423rd in the World, 30th in Africa and 5th in Nigeria.

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, ranked 1,822nd in the World, 44th in Africa and 7th in Nigeria; while Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, ranked 1,985th in the World, 52nd in Africa and 8th position in Nigeria.

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) ranked 2,088th in the World, 44th in Africa and 9th in Nigeria; while Landmark University, another private university ranked 2,266th in the World, occupying 65th and 10th positions in Africa and Nigeria respectively.

The Webometrics university ranking is a ranking system based on the university’s web presence, visibility, and web access.

Contrary to the views held by some people, it is not a ranking of the websites of universities; rather it is a ranking of universities.

Coordinators of the ranking are scientists working at one world-class public research institution with long experience in metrics-guided evaluation.

Webometrics ranking uses both webometric (all missions) and bibliometric (research mission) indicators.

The ranking’s primary objective is to promote open access to the knowledge generated by the university.

By Ogochukwu Isioma, Umuahia

Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has felicitated with his younger brother, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu on his investiture as Knight of St. John International (KSJI).

The former Abia governor’s congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued through his official Facebook page, by his media office, on Friday.

Kalu rejoiced with his brother on the historic recognition and urged him to live up to the high calling of Christ and remain steadfast in selfless service to humanity.

He said, “The Orders of Knighthood require that you live up to the high calling of Christ in your life; that you take stand as a Christian warrior in the fierce struggle against evil in everyday life; and that you support the Christian Church with all the zeal you possess.”

While praying for God’s guidance over his brother on this path of servant leadership, he reminded him that, “the Holy Bible says; “Whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave”, citing a Bible reference, Matthew 20:26-27.

Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu, Action Peoples Party (APP) governorship candidate for the 2023 gubernatorial election in Abia state, was on Friday invested into the order of Knights of St John International (KSJI).

Igbere TV reports that the investiure took place at the KSJI Grand Commandery, Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The former Abia Chief of Staff was invested alongside two others – Sir Emeka Diwe and Sir Marcel Eze – whom he described as his friends.

...says Governor Ikpeazu Betrayed 'Power Rotation' Agreement/Arrangement

...‘Ikpeazu Imposing same ‘Injustice’ he's Fighting under G5 on Abians’

Governorship candidate of the Action Peoples Party (APP) in the forthcoming March 11, 2023 gubernatorial election in Abia State, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu, says the people of Abia North senatorial zone will speak with one voice at the poll.

This was as the former Chief of Staff accused Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of promoting and fostering same injustice he claims to be fighting under the Peoples Democratic Party G5 forum on Abians by betraying power rotation to Abia North, thereby denying the people opportunity to produce the next governor.

Igbere TV reports that the first democratically elected governor of Abia state, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu is from Abia North senatorial zone, his successor, Theodore Orji is from Central zone, while the incumbent Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is from Abia South zone. With this, power can be said to have rotated among the three zones.

Based on the foregoing, it is expected and a widely held belief that upon the expiration of Gov. Ikpeazu's second term, power would return to Abia North zone in all fairness, and in line with the principle of equity and justice.

But, against this popular belief and arrangement, Gov. Ikpeazu is known to have championed, supervised and micro-zoned the governorship ticket of his party, the PDP, to Abia Central, where his immediate past predecessor hails from.

At the PDP, at the national level, Gov. Ikpeazu and other four aggrieved governors of the party had formed the G5 (five governors) forum over alleged injustice in the party, accusing the PDP of marginalising the South.

They had demanded that power should rotate back to South, with President Muhammadu Buhari, a Northerner, completing his eight-year tenure. G5 had also demanded that the party's chairmanship position be zoned to South.

Meanwhile, Igbere TV understands that, among all the current candidates contesting for the Abia governorship seat, only Chief Mascot hails from Abia North zone. It is expected that the people and Abians in general would rally round the APP candidate to uphold justice, equity and fairness.

Speaking on 'The Standpoint', a political programme on Rapid FM, Umuahia, Chief Mascot said Gov. Ikpeazu shouldn't be crying about injustice on Southerners in his party at the national when he is personally overseeing same injustice on his people back home in Abia.

Chief Mascot was, however, optimistic that the people of Abia North and Abians in general would speak with one voice with their votes at the ballot by electing him, a candidate of Abia North extraction, as their next Governor.

"You (Ikpeazu) can't claim to be fighting injustice in your own party and on Southerners at the national level whereas back home (in Abia), you are spearheading and executing same injustice on your people,” Chief Mascot said.

According to him, it is hypocritical for one not to practice what he or she preaches, “as the saying goes: charity begins at home, we expected same (justice) for Abians from Gov. Ikpeazu, he should keep up to the commitment in 2019 to return power to Abia North, equity should be restored.”

He pledged that his party, the Action Peoples Party (APP) would enthrone good governance in Abia state by rescuing, rebuilding and making the state great again.

On his part, the party's Deputy Governorship candidate, Professor Osondu Akoma said the APP has good intentions and parades people-oriented programmes for a greater Abia.

He, therefore, urged the people to vote out PDP and elect the APP and all its candidates in the forthcoming general elections in Abia State.

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From: Mary-Jane Anthony, Benin City

Management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) on Friday announced the disqualification of some students aspiring for various elective offices in the forthcoming Students’ Union election.

CAMPUS GIST reports that the election to usher in a new Students’ Union leadership is expected to take place soon. Already, sales of forms is ongoing with the Electoral Commission already inaugurated.

A statement announcing their disqualification, made available to this online media, was endorsed by the University’s Dean of Students who doubles as Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Professor Clement Ighodaro.

He said the three affected students were disqualified from contesting the elections for contravening the Institution’s rule.

According to the Dean, the students have defied persistent warnings on the defacing of surfaces in the University’s campuses with campaign posters and graffiti.

Those affected are: Ehis Irabor (vying for Financial Secretary, Students’ Union), Atori Samuel (vying for Director of Sports, Students’ Union) and Aphori Efe (vying for President, National Association of Delta State Students Union).

‘Students react’

Meanwhile, the decision by Management of the University of Benin to disqualify some students from contesting the forthcoming students’ union election has been met with mixed reactions.

While some students queried where the Dean derived such powers, others wondered whether it was an unanimous decision among members of the Electoral Commission or if the Electoral guidelines were followed.

“Were they even given the opportunity to defend themselves? What if the defacement were handiwork of their opponents? Besides, how can you say you have disqualified someone who is not even an aspirant yet?, someone who is yet to obtain form or submit same”, a male student (name withheld) who spoke with this Reporter queried.

But, a handful of students have subtly backed the move by Management, arguing that ‘lawlessness’ should not be encouraged as it was not proper for a student to deface the campus all in the name of campaign.

Efforts to obtain comments from the Dean of Students proved abortive. As at the time of filing this report, his known phone line was not reachable. Also, the affected students were yet to comment on the matter.

Similarly, the recently inaugurated Students’ Electoral Commission, co-headed by a student as Secretary, was yet to formally react to the development.

Details later…

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the National University Commission (NUC) has been told to give university students and their counterparts in other tertiary institutions ’compulsory break’ in order to travel and exercise their franchise.

The Federal House of Representatives made the call on Thursday, while equally urging the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) and the Federal Ministry of Education to heed to the call.

The Green Chamber also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make special arrangements for the students to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the polls.

CAMPUS GIST gathered that the resolutions followed the consideration of a motion at the plenary by Hon. Kabir Ibrahim, All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Kebbi state.

Ibrahim argued that there were over 2.1 million students currently studying in Nigerian universities, while over 2.4 million were students in Polytechnics, Monotechnics and Colleges of Education across the country.

The University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA) has donated computers and other accessories valued at N5.76 million to the University of Benin. The items were donated to enhance the processing and issuance of transcripts by the Exams and Records Division of the University.

CAMPUS GIST recalls that President of UBAANA, Mr. Alex Imuetinyan Eronmwon had during a courtesy visit to the University Management, recently, announced plans for such donations including Desktop Computers, HP LaserJet printers, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), HP Scanner, and a HP Copier.

Receiving the items, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Lilian Salami, thanked the UBAANA President, Mr Alex Eronmwon and members of the Association for the kind gesture and assured them that the items would be used for the purpose for which they were donated.

Elated, the Vice Chancellor further eulogised UBAANA for its regular donations towards the development of the University under her watch, and urged other branches of the University of Benin Alumni Association to emulate the UBAANA “give back” tradition.

Present at the presentation ceremony alongside the Vice Chancellor were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Catherine Ukponmwan; the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Ekehuan Campus, Professor A. B. Ayinde; the Director of Legal Services, Professor Amos Enabulele; the Head, Exams and Records Division, Mr John Osagie, and the Acting Director, Alumni Relations, Dr Stephen Obeki Obeki.

•Corps Members to Now Undergo Compulsory Fitness Test in Camp

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reviewed its policy on verifying fitness of Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) for orientation course, and has now scrapped the presentation of a medical fitness certificate by PCMs.

CAMPUS GIST reports that, before now, the NYSC mandates every prospective corps member to submit a medical fitness certificate on arrival at camp for the three-weeks orientation course.

The essence, it was gathered, was to enable camp officials identify and manage corps members who are not fit to undertake certain activities in camp, in view of the regimentation and physical demands of some of the orientation course's activities.

The scheme also grants corps members with certain illnesses the concession to relocate to another state, on medical ground.

But, according to NYSC, the initiative has been largely misunderstood, leading to extortion of some prospective corps members by fraudulent individuals in a bid to secure such documents “some of which may not stand a test of integrity.”

In a statement on Monday, made available to CAMPUS GIST, the NYSC said henceforth, corps members will now undergo a compulsory fitness test at the Scheme’s Clinic at orientation camps with effect from the 2022 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course.

“It is pertinent to note that the NYSC Orientation Camp Clinics across the nation are managed by the National Health Insurance Authority with the supervision of Consultants from tertiary health institution,” the statement signed by the NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, added.

•Corps Members to Now Undergo Compulsory Fitness Test in Camp

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reviewed its policy on verifying fitness of Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) for orientation course, and has now scrapped the presentation of a medical fitness certificate by PCMs.

CAMPUS GIST reports that, before now, the NYSC mandates every prospective corps member to submit a medical fitness certificate on arrival at camp for the three-weeks orientation course.

The essence, it was gathered, was to enable camp officials identify and manage corps members who are not fit to undertake certain activities in camp, in view of the regimentation and physical demands of some of the orientation course's activities.

The scheme also grants corps members with certain illnesses the concession to relocate to another state, on medical ground.

But, according to NYSC, the initiative has been largely misunderstood, leading to extortion of some prospective corps members by fraudulent individuals in a bid to secure such documents “some of which may not stand a test of integrity.”

In a statement on Monday, made available to CAMPUS GIST, the NYSC said henceforth, corps members will now undergo a compulsory fitness test at the Scheme’s Clinic at orientation camps with effect from the 2022 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course.

“It is pertinent to note that the NYSC Orientation Camp Clinics across the nation are managed by the National Health Insurance Authority with the supervision of Consultants from tertiary health institution,” the statement signed by the NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, added.

The Vice Chancellor, University of Benin, Professor Lilian Salami, has presented an ultra modern HP 240 GB laptop to a 400 Level Mass Communication student of the University, Miss Sylvia Uhunoma Ojo.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday endorsed by the Institution’s Public Relations and Protocol Unit.

According to the statement, Miss Ojo is undergoing Industrial Training in the Public Relations Unit, Vice Chancellor’s Office.

“The reward is in recognition of Miss Ojo’s exemplary conduct and competency displayed during the mandatory three months I.T period, stretched further by the recently suspended eight months ASUU strike action,” the statement said.

Presenting the laptop gift to the student, Professor Salami said the gift is expected to boost her morale and and spur her to be more dedicated to any given assignment.

“The gesture is also to encourage as well as motivate other students to embrace hardwork and be focused,” the statement added.

Social media giant, Twitter, has suspended a fake account opened and operated in the name of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Recall that ASUU had on several occasion raised the alarm that it does not operate a Twitter account, calling for its suspension.

But, the account, @ASUUNGR, had continued to tweet to the public activities of the union and was very active during the recently suspended strike.

However, recent checks by CAMPUS GIST shows that the micro-blogging platform has now yield to the call of ASUU and suspended the account.

According to Twitter, the account with over 800,000 followers was suspended for violating it's community rules.

It is not immediately clear if the account would be reinstated. But further checks by CAMPUS GIST shows that the owner may have flout a new or backup handle.

This is to inform all candidates who are yet to complete their registration for the University of Benin 2022/2023 Post-UTME and Direct Entry Admission Screening Exercise, that the deadline has been extended by one week.

Consequently, the registration portal now closes midnight of Friday October 28, 2022, as against the midnight of Friday 21 October, 2022, earlier announced.

A visit to the University's official registration portal Wednesday evening by CAMPUS GIST shows that the registration extension had taken effect and now closes midnight of Friday October 28, 2022.

The development, most likely, is to allow candidates experiencing difficulty especially those who recently obtained the JAMB Change of Institution form complete their registrations.

Candidates are, therefore, enjoined to take advantage of this extension and complete their registration within this one week period as there may be no further extension thereafter.

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To register for the UNIBEN Post-UTME and Direct Entry, visit the UNIBEN official website >>> https://waeup.uniben.edu/applicants or contact our Reps' for assistance using our contact our page >>> https://www.campusgist.com.ng/contact-us/ .

Following the recent suspension of the eight-month old strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Management of the Amadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has announced resumption of academic activities.

The University announced October 24th, 2022, for the reopening of its campus to activities. But continuation of lectures for the truncated 2021/2022 academic session’s first semester will only begin January 3, 2023.

A “special bulletin” published by the institution on Wednesday, made available to CAMPUS GIST, said the the approval was given by the University’s Senate at its 516th emergency meeting held today (Wednesday).

The University of Benin has announced reopening of the institution to academic activities following the suspension of the eight-month old strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities.

In a statement on Wednesday, the University announced 24th October, 2022, for continuation of the 2020/2021 academic activities truncated by the industrial action by university-based unions.

The statement sighted by CAMPUS GIST, was signed by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Benedicta Ehanire.

She said lectures are to run from 24th October until December 23rd, 2022.

It reads, “The University of Benin Senate has amended the Institution’s 2020/2021 academic calendar and approved Sunday 23rd October, 2022, for students to return to halls of residence.

“Lectures are expected to continue on 24th October as the 2nd Semester was truncated for eight months following the recently suspended strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU.

“The semester is to run until 23rd December.

“Meanwhile, online registration of new students admitted for the 2021/2022 begins on the 2nd of December.

“The Vice Chancellor, Professor, Lilian Salami, who presided over the Senate meeting, solicited the cooperation and support of staff and students to ensure successful academic activities.”

The University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State, has been ranked sixth best in Nigeria by the Times Higher Education (THE) in its latest World Universities rankings.

This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday, October 16, 2022, issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Benedicta Ehanaire, and made available to CAMPUS GIST.

She said the performance indicators were centred on the four areas of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook.

According to her, the rankings were also based on the analyses of over fifteen million research publications and survey responses from approximately forty thousand scholars worldwide.

“This information has been well received by the University of Benin Community as it serves as a confidence booster”, Ehanaire said.

“The University is at the conclusion stage of securing international accreditation by the Quality Assurance Agency, United Kingdom. It is expected that the University of Benin will be the first to be so recognised among Nigerian Universities.

“With these developments the University is now positioned to significantly improve in its ranking in the next exercise”, the statement added.

Following the suspension of the eight month old strike by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has announced resumption of academic activities.

This was contained in a circular exclusively obtained by CAMPUS GIST, Friday, entitled “Approved Revised Academic Calendar for 2020/2021 session and 2021/2022 session full time.”

In the circular seen by CAMPUS GIST, all year one ‘B’ students for the 2021/2022 session were asked to resume 16th October, while first semester exams commences 24th to 29th October, 2022.

But that will be after just a one week revision expected to last from 17th to 21st October, 2022. Senate will meet 30th November to consider the semester results.

For the 2020/2021 session, second semester, all old students are to arrive October 30, 2022 while lectures commences 31st October to 22nd December, 2022 (eight weeks).

The institution will observe the Christmas break from 23rd December to 2nd January only to reopen 3rd January, 2023 for one week revision before the commencement of the semester exams.

Vice President (Inter-Campus Affairs) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Vanessa Egbeahie, recently, joined her counterparts for the NANS’ door-to-door sensitisation/awareness campaign ahead of the 2023 general elections.

CAMPUS GIST reports that, the ‘awareness, sensitisation and solidarity walk for good governance’ with the theme: “Your Vote is your Voice”, which was organised by the NANS Joint Campus Committee (JCC), Cross River State chapter, held in Calabar.

The two-day programme which held from 30th September to October 1, 2022, saw members of the students’ national body sensitise members of the public on the power of their permanent voter cards (PVCs) and their “one vote”.

Comrade Vanessa used the occasion of the programme to wish Nigerian students a happy Independence celebration, while expressing optimism that the students would soon return to classrooms.

In a related development, the NANS VP visited the University of Calabar (UNICAL) where she was received by the Students’ Union President, Tryon Bassey. She also met with the Cross River NANS JCC Chairman, Emmanuel Michael.

During her stay in Calabar and tour around the federal institution campus, Comrade Vanessa paid a courtesy visit to the UNICAL Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Banku and the University’s Dean of Students, Dr. Anthony Enyang.

Since her election and assumption of office as the NANS VP, Comrade Vanessa hit the ground running, with working visits to several establishments and personalities to secure collaborations in furtherance of her agenda to protect the interests of the Nigerian students.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has reacted to the Industrial Court judgement which ordered her members to suspend their ongoing strike immediately.

CAMPUS GIST reports that the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja had on Wednesday ordered ASUU to immediately suspend the ongoing industrial action and return back to work.

Justice Polycarp Hamman of the Industrial Court held that the strike was a breach of the Section 18(1)(2) of the Trade Disputes Act, which prohibits their action.

Reacting, ASUU, on its Facebook page, noted that the Association’s Lawyer is filing an appeal and a stay of execution on the matter immediately.

“Our lawyer is filing an appeal and stay of execution of the judgment. A people united can never be defeated,” ASUU wrote.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has rejected Wednesday’s ruling of the Industrial Court, describing it as a “black market judgment.”

https://www.campusgist.com.ng/2022/09/21/breaking-ASUU-reacts-to-court-order-reveals-next-move/

Lala Seun Mynd4