By Faith Igbudu
The newly installed Chancellor of Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, His Gracious Majesty (HGM), (Barr) Disrael Gbobo Bob-Manuel II, the paramount ruler of Abonnema Kingdom in Rivers State has expressed profound gratitude to the people of Benue State for the honour done him.
HGM Bob-Manuel was installed as the 5th Chancellor of the university during the 18th-21st convocation and 30th anniversary celebration of the university.
The installation was done by the visitor of the university, Governor Samuel Ortom at the university’s convocation square.
Immediately after his installation as Chancellor, the Paramount Ruler was conferred with a Doctor of Laws (LL.D), Honoris Causa.
In his speech shortly after the installation, the traditional ruler accepted with joy to play the role, saying he was going to deploy everything within his reach for the upliftment to the university.
He commended the governor for his interest in the welfare and growth of the institution as well as all the management of BSU who have been up and doing to ensure the university is flying the flag of greatness.
“Today marks another milestone in the history of my life being appointed and installed as the 5th Vice Chancellor of Benue State University. I thank God and the Governor Samuel Ortom for this great honour.
“I therefore accept this responsibility and promise to use my office and positively impact on the development and growth of the university.
Some distinguished Nigerians were also honoured at the occasion included Senior Pastor, Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche was awarded Doctor of Divinity (D.Div) Honoris Causa and renowned Economist, Chief Christopher Edordu awarded Doctor of Commerce (D. Com) Honoris Causa.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Chief Edordu, said it was an honour to be recognized by society for good works, adding that it will spur them to do more for society and the university in particular.
He said he was particularly glad to identify with BSU, noting that it is a flagship university in the country.
In separate goodwill messages, Vice Chancellors of over 11 universities in Nigeria, and the National Universities Commission (NUC) congratulated the institution on the epoch making occasion. They described the university as a manpower generator for academics in the country as its products are in key places of learning grooming others.
Some students the graduands at the ceremony including, Dr Tabitha Tarbunde, Dr Ezekiel Dondo both of Educational Foundation and Chiamaka Ihorbiso could not hide their joy at the occasion. They advised that people stay resilient and focused to achieve their dreams.