Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has been honoured with a prestigious leadership award by the Ambrose Alli University Alumni Association (AAUAA) in recognition of his visionary leadership, unwavering support for education, and transformative contributions to Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.
The award, conferred during a ceremony held at the university campus, was received on the Governor’s behalf by the Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, who represents Esan West Local Government Area in the Edo State House of Assembly and also one of the honourees.
In their remarks at the event, the Acting Vice Chancellor of AAU, Professor Sunday Olowo Samuel, and the Chairman of the AAU Alumni Association, Professor Austin Aghemelo, commended Governor Okpebholo for the sweeping reforms and developmental strides recorded under his administration.
They noted that his interventions had restored confidence in the institution’s future and repositioned it on the path of academic excellence.
Among the Governor’s efforts highlighted were the restoration of accreditation to critical programmes, including the revival of the Department of Nursing; extensive infrastructural renewal; and financial assistance through scholarships to deserving students.
One of the most notable interventions was the substantial increase in monthly subvention to the university from N41 million to N500 million, which has greatly improved its operational capacity.
Other initiatives, they said, include, the implementation of the new minimum wage for university staff, reinstatement of unjustly dismissed employees, and the strategic reconstitution of the university’s Governing Council.
Governor Okpebholo was also praised for appointing competent principal officers to manage the university and for initiating the 1.5 MW solar power project aimed at solving energy challenges and ensuring steady electricity supply on campus.
The Alumni Association expressed its appreciation for the Governor’s dedication, stating that his contributions have enhanced, not only the physical and financial condition of the university, but also boosted morale across the institution.
Other individuals honoured at the ceremony included, Mr. Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and Mr. Henshaw Oligbe, Managing Director of the Edo State Transport Authority.
A keynote lecture titled “Beyond Graduation: Unlocking the Enduring Values of Alumni Associations for Individuals and Associations” was delivered by Professor Omeimen Ujuanbi, Director of Research, Publication and Development and former President of the AAU Alumni Association.
