Ize-Iyamu pledges performance, transparency as UNIBEN TDF Board Chair

Ize-Iyamu pledges performance, transparency as UNIBEN TDF Board Chair

……”We’re mirroring Oxford University”, VC

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Benin Trust Development Fund (TDF), Pastor Dr. Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has pledged to reposition the fund as a strategic vehicle for sustainable growth and institutional excellence.

Speaking at the formal assumption of office, the renowned man of God declared that the Board under his leadership would be driven by performance, accountability, and measurable impact rather than symbolism.

His words, “The Board shall not be symbolic; it shall be strategic. It shall not be passive; it shall be purposeful. It shall not merely exist; it shall perform,” he promised.

He stressed that the core mandate of the Trust Development Fund is to mobilize resources, inspire confidence among stakeholders, and safeguard the credibility of the institution.

According to him, “the fund would be managed with the discipline and precision of a world-class financial institution”.

Addressing donors and development partners, the chairman assured them of strict transparency and accountability in the management of resources.

His words, “Transparency will be our shield, and accountability will be our compass. We will ensure that every naira entrusted to this fund results in visible and measurable impact,” he stated.

Drawing inspiration from scripture, Ize-Iyamu referenced Isaiah 58:12, expressing hope that the Board’s work would lay foundations for future generations and strengthen the university’s legacy.

He expressed optimism that the inauguration of the Board would mark the beginning of a new era for the institution.

“In the years ahead, may we look back at this day and say: here, a stronger future began; here, commitment replaced complacency,” he added.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the advancement of the University of Benin and prayed for divine guidance in steering the Trust Development Fund toward achieving its objectives.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, held at the Ugbowo Campus, Vice Chancellor UNIBEN, Prof. Edoba Omoregie (SAN) said the networking has become imperative in view of the fact that government alone can not bear the burden of funding.

According to the VC, the UNIBEN Trust Development Fund initiative is the first of its kind in the country, taking a cue from Oxford University in England.

Prof. Omoregie noted that the newly incorporated board is entrusted with the crucial responsibility of enhancing stakeholder participation and driving the university’s innovation and development agenda

While performing the inauguration, Chairman of UNIBEN Governing Council, Prof. Shuaibu Umaru, described the event as historic and marking a new chapter in UNIBEN’s pursuit of academic and infrastructural excellence.

At the event, the governor of Edo state, Senator Monday Okpebholo was represented by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the Minister of Education also sent a representative while the Oba of Benin also sent top palace Chiefs as representatives among several dignitaries.