By Aladenika Michael
Upon assuming office, Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo fulfilled his campaign promise to revamp Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma by appointing a Governing Council.
The choice of council leadership surprised many, as the Governor opted for merit and quality, selecting Chief Dan Osi Orbih, a prominent son of Edo State with an impressive track record in politics and boardroom administration.
Chief Orbih, a seasoned politician with connections, vision, and competence, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Despite being from a different political party, he was chosen by the APC government to lead the university's rebranding efforts, demonstrating the Governor's commitment to putting the right people in the right places."
Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo was clear in his charge to Council Chairman Chief Dan Orbih, saying, "Your appointment is not based on party affiliation, but on your merit, capabilities, and capacity to attract benefits that will elevate our university to global status."
In response at the inauguration, Chief Dan Orbih accepted the challenge, stating, "I'm humbled by your choice, despite our party differences. If your goal is to foster partnership in growing the state's sectors, you've found reliable partners in us. I speak for myself and fellow council members when I say we'll work tirelessly to rejuvenate the university, correct past errors, and drive excellence."With a renewed zeal, the Chief Dan Orbih-led Governing Council hit the ground running, embarking on a comprehensive assessment of Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma's personnel and infrastructure.
Council members visited various campuses, including the main campus, College of Medicine, Irrua campus, and Emaudo, to inspect structures and meet with staff and student representatives.
As a leader, prioritizing the welfare of his people, Chief Dan Orbih constituted the Professor Idialu Committee to ascertain the university's assets and liabilities.
Based on the committee's report, he made a groundbreaking decision: implementing the N70,000 minimum wage for university staff.
"Our staff can no longer suffer non-payment of minimum wage while others enjoy it," he declared. "We must prioritize their needs to ensure optimal service delivery. From now on, no staff member will earn less than their counterparts'" Chief Orbih said.
The Dan Orbih-led Governing Council, backed by relevant laws, initiated the process of filling key positions, including Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Bursar, and University Librarian. Advertisements were published in three national dailies, declaring the offices vacant and inviting applications from qualified candidates.
The council followed due process, receiving and collating applications, shortlisting candidates, conducting interviews, and releasing results. Three candidates were recommended to the Governor for consideration as the substantive Vice-Chancellor, while the process for other positions continued and results released, except for the Registrar that was inconclusive.
As the university community awaits the Governor's appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor, a flood of petitions emerged, challenging the process, outcomes, and candidate eligibility.
In response, the Edo State Government, through the Secretary to the State Government's office, wrote a letter dated 30th July 2025 and addressed to the Chairman Governing Council, acknowledging receipt of the three nominees for the Vice-Chancellor position.
While commending the process, the letter noted the emergence of petitions not previously before the council during interviews. The government then requested the Governing Council to critically review the petitions and assess their validity.
The process of appointing a substantive Vice-Chancellor is a nuanced and informed exercise, prioritizing competence and ability to drive the Visitor's vision. It's crucial to note that social media criticisms and inflammatory statements are often designed to heighten tension and create disaffection.It's possible that the State Government and the Governing Council share a unified understanding on this matter, despite the narrative being spun on social media. A cautious approach is warranted to navigate this process effectively.
The Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma's Governing Council is driving growth and supporting the Management's developmental strides to implement Governor Monday Okpebholo's educational vision. This synergy has yielded numerous achievements, demonstrating alignment between the State Government, Governing Council, and Management.
Notable accomplishments include resolving inherited issues related to Medical and Nursing students, inducting affected students in batches, and facilitating student mobilization for the NYSC program. The Governing Council has also approved a graduation ceremony for over six years' worth of graduates, as well as the investiture of the Visitor, aimed at reviving the celebration of academic success.
In a bid to enhance security and infrastructure, the Management's ban on students' vehicles on campus is complemented by the Governing Council's approval of a multimillion-naira car park project, which is already underway. Additionally, the University gate has undergone renovation, signaling a new era of improvement and development. These initiatives suggest a brighter future for Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma.In conclusion, the Dan Orbih-led Governing Council has demonstrated a strong commitment to repositioning Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma for greatness.
Through its proactive approach, the Council has driven meaningful progress, addressing long-standing challenges and implementing innovative solutions.As the university community looks to the future, it is clear that the partnership between the State Government, Governing Council, and Management will continue to yield positive outcomes, ultimately enhancing the institution's reputation and contributing to the realization of Governor Monday Okpebholo's vision for education in Edo State.
ALADENIKA Michael is the Principal Assistant Registrar and Head, Information, Public Relations and Protocol, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma.
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