Nuga Games 2017: Benson Idahosa University Emerges Top Private University with 26 Medals

BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY THE

PIPELINEJUNE - JULY 2017 EDITION | ISSUE 22 Putting the grapevine out of business

NUGA GAMES 2017: BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY EMERGES TOP PRIVATE UNIVERSITY WITH 26 MEDALS

Benson Idahosa University recently emerged top private university at the 25th Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games, which was held at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue. Benson Idahosa University was the only private university that participated at the NUGA Games with a total of 47 athletes, 8 coaches and 5 officials. Out of the 16 NUGA events, Team BIU participated in 7 events namely; Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Chess, Swimming, Tennis and Volleyball. According to records by the NUGA secretariat in Makurdi, a total of 57 universities competed for medals at the sports fiesta and amidst stiff competition, Team BIU emerged second runner-up with 10 gold, 7 silver and 9 bronze medals. Benson Idahosa University proved its superiority by defeating 55 state and federal universities, which included, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), University of Nigeria (UNN), University of Benin (UNIBEN), University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), University of Calabar (UNICAL), University of Jos (UNIJOS), and University of Ilorin. However, Benson Idahosa University won 8 gold, 5 silver and 6 bronze medals in swimming, while in tennis (male single and female single) they garnered 1 gold and 1 bronze medal respectively. Also, the students established their supremacy in badminton, by winning 2 bronze medals with an additional gold and silver in chess. Two of our athletes, Amukali Evans and Mohammed Lawal, won Most Valuable Player awards in swimming and tennis respectively. It will also be recalled that in 2011, Benson Idahosa University emerged second runner- up in the West Africa University Games held at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State Nigeria. Expressing her gratitude to the University Management, the Director of Sports who led and supervised the team from Benson Idahosa University, Mrs. Eunice Adebayo-James, attributed her team’s brilliant performance to God, and to the athletes’ gross discipline. “We came this far because my players performed according to the laid down instructions given to them, hence, God crowned our efforts. I want to appreciate the University Management for their unrelenting encouragement to sports and on behalf of the Sports Unit, we promise to continually strive to achieve greater feats in future competitions,” she said. The Most Valuable Player (MVP) in swimming, Amukali Evans, said the team prepared adequately for the competition. “I feel very excited and great. We trained very hard and our Director of Sports took very good care of us,” he said. He explained that they passed through a lot of difficulties before and during the competitions. “However, that notwithstand- ing, we are all happy with the turnout of events,” he added. Meanwhile, the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), garnered 70 gold, 47 silver and 33 bronze medals to win the 25th NUGA Games. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), came second with 11 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze medals.

1 MANAGEMENT SPEAKS Benson Idahosa University to Confer Honorary Award on Olu of Warri

he 20th Olu of Warri, HRM, Ogiame Ikenwoli I, is one of the emi- nent Nigerians to receive a Benson Idahosa University (BIU) honorary doctorate degree in the forthcoming university convoca- Ttion ceremony, set to hold on the 8th of July, 2017. The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University, Prof. Sam Guobadia, who disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the monarch’s palace in Warri, Delta State, said the decision was aimed at rewarding the royal father for his resourcefulness for championing the cause of his WORD OF THE MONTH FROM THE people. ARCHBISHOP OF CHURCH OF GOD MISSION INTERNATIONAL (CGMi) FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 2017 EMPOWERED TO WALK IN FORGIVENESS Luke 6:13, Colossians 3:13, Matthew 18:21-22

According to Prof. Guobadia, who led the University Management dele- gation, he said they came to convey the endorsement of the University Governing Council on Management’s recommendation that the Olu of Warri be an honorary awardee. According to Prof. Guobadia, the Olu will be conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity. “As a community, we know you deserve this significant award because of As you step into the month of June, I pray for you that what was your difficult season from your resourcefulness, which the throne is widely known for. You are the January will become a place of refreshing be- 20th Olu of Warri; you are a child of God, a man of peace and a widely-ac- fore the end of the year. Psalm 84:5-7. knowledged bridge-builder that has led his people well.” The royal father, in his remarks, described his recognition as a great hon- According to our Director of Campus Life, Rev. our. “I am indeed elated with this offer and promise to be there on the Laurie, "There is victory on the other side of proposed date with my entourage.” the pain you are going through. Discovering The Olu of Warri said he was particularly delighted to be associated with the strength and presence of God in the midst of your trying time is like finding gold! It is un- the University Chancellor, Archbishop Margaret Benson Idahosa. quantifiable in its power to restore and revive “To me, this is a family affair, as I am a deeply involved member of the you. If you have fallen into some kind of trap or Church. I am here to identify with you. Feel free to call for my assistance, negative life-cycle, don't stay down. Get your- and whatever that is within me to do or give, I will do,” he added. self up, start moving forward and learn the in- valuable lessons that are taught in the valley". Even as we gear towards the second half of this year, we are stepping into our best season yet. Amen!

2 GOV. OBASEKI APPOINTS MRS. Why Private Universities Are Stronger(1) SANNI AS HEAD OF STATE Everistus Onwuzurike LIBRARY JOINT REVIVAL In 1948, the university education started in Nigeria when the IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE first university was established in Ibadan. The University of Ibadan came to being after Yaba College of Technology (YA- BATECH) was established as the first tertiary institution. In the wake of the birth of Third Republic in 1999, the dereg- ulation of the economy saw the emergence of private universities. The financial crisis facing states of the federation en- couraged the establishment of the private universities, which are increasing till date. It should be observed that the quest to give more choices to the ever-increasing number of admission seekers necessi- tated the establishment of private universities. Since then, there have been about 60 approved private universities in the country. Just like the public universities, private tertiary institutions in Nigeria are also being ranked and reviewed annually. Pres- ently, on the table of ranking, some private universities like Benson Idahosa University, Babcock University and Cove- Governor Godwin Obaseki has appointed the Librarian of nant University have better standing among universities, Benson Idahosa University, Mrs. Grace Sanni, as the head both public and private. of the Edo State Library Joint Revival Implementation No parent would like to compromise quality for names. Many Committee. The inauguration is in line with the Governor’s have argued that private universities are expensive, but the promise to revamp the State’s library system. truth is that good life is not expensive but it is the creation Tasking the committee members at the Edo State Govern- that is expensive. These schools give you value for your mon- ment House in Benin City, where he inaugurated the com- ey; education shouldn’t be so cheap. mittee, the Governor reiterated that his administration is Former president of Harvard University, Derek Bok, famously poised to revamp public libraries and key into e-library ser- said: “If you think education is expensive try ignorance.” vices, which was the contemporary international standard. We should also know that the fees of public-owned tuition On the management of the Committee, Governor Obaseki have increased and are not as cheap as they used to be. disclosed that the Chief of Staff, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, would Most of these private varsities have decided to deploy the use coordinate it, while the members would submit a report on of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to impart the terms of reference within a four-week period. knowledge on students, while many public-owned institu- Speaking at the inauguration, the Committee head, Mrs. tions lag behind in this respect. Students, who attend private Grace Sanni, commended the Governor for his interest in schools, are easily linked with mentors and research groups upgrading the State’s library to world standards, noting as done in many globally-acclaimed schools, but most of our that constituting the board was a step in the right direction. public schools cannot do this. She said members would adhere to the terms of reference At academic and social competitions, private varsities are given to them adding that a good library would facilitate an earning more honour and accolades, compared to pub- informed society, which would also promote development. lic-owned schools. At the sixth International Humanitarian Mrs. Sanni is to head the committee in reviving the state Law Moot Court competition held at Lagos State University of public libraries in the State, recommending ways of re- (LASU), a private school, Benson Idahosa University in Benin viving reading culture among students and youths, sug- emerged winner amidst stiff competition from nine public gesting possible public private partnerships in the library universities. sector, maintaining library infrastructures across the state, In 2011, Benson Idahosa University also emerged second run- suggesting the best ways of archiving government books, ner- up in the West Africa University Games held at the Uni- documents and historical materials, considering e-learning versity of Ilorin (UNILORIN) in Kwara State. Again, at the 25th opportunities in the library sector, and helping to estab- NUGA Games, Benson Idahosa University, came third posi- lish and manage a public library in the state’s government tion with a total of 26 medals, defeating 55 state and federal house. school.

3 EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Bishop F.E.B. Idahosa II President, Benson Idahosa University PHOTO NEWS

PUBLISHER Prof. Ernest B. Izevbigie Vice Chancellor, Benson Idahosa University

EDITORIAL BOARD

Prof. Sam Guobadia (Chairman/Editor-in-Chief) Dr. Mark Ighile Dr. (Mrs) A. Esimaje Dr. Godwin Oboh Mr. Chuks Ezirim Mr. Temi E.A. Esonamunjor Everistus Onwuzurike

•The Registrar of Benson Idahosa University, Rev. M.J Okagbare Design & Layout - Njoagwuani Kosi recently received an award of excellence at a capacity building Photography - Shadrach David •The University Principal Officers with the Permanent Secretary, workshop held at University of Benin. This came after he delivered Delta State Ministry of Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Minnie Oseji and her team a lecture titled“Seeing beyond your look: training self for greater CONTENT, PRODUCTION, DISTRIBU- members. competitiveness.” TION Communication and Brand Strategy Unit (CBSU)

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One of our major Core Values as a University community is OWNERSHIP MENTALITY. We have taken it not just as a philosophy, but also as part of our culture. It re-affirms our strong commit- ment to treat the University well, as if we all own it. •The University Principal Officers paid a condolence visit to the family of Late Brig-Gen. (Dr.) Samuel Ogbemudia.

•The University Principal Officers with the former Chairman of the • The University Principal Officers with the former Minister of Defence and pioneer Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Presidential Committee on the Implementation of Amnesty Programme, Maj. Gen. Godwin Abbe (retd). Tony Anenih.

•The Director of the Campus Life Division, Rev. Laurie Idahosa • The Director of the Campus Life Division, Rev. Laurie Idahosa,commissioning the building project with students at the Student Leadership Appreciation Banquet. at the IDP Camp, Edo State. She also donated 1,500 backpacks to the children. 4 CGMi IN PERSPECTIVE

n the 29th of April, 2017, Church of God Mission International members from different bishoprics and zones gathered together in Benin City, to flag off the 100 day countdown to the 2017 Mega Convention. The Archbishop of Church of God Mission International (CGMi), Archbishop M.E. Benson Idahosa, JP, OON and other Onotable anointed men of God such as Bishop David Oyedepo and Bishop Tudor Bismark, will be ministering at the Mega Con- vention. The convention is scheduled for Tuesday 8th of August, 2017 to Sunday 13th August, 2017. This year’s convention with the theme “Empowered to Succeed’’ promises to be one event not to be forgotten in a hurry.

Highlights of the 2017 Jam Summit

5 LIFE SUCCESS CENTRE UPDATE FROM

he Life Success Centre is gradually winding down her LEGACY CAMPUS live training sessions for the 2016/2017 academic session. The live training sessions were really informative. TIn the concluding training sessions scheduled for Monday, 12th June to Saturday June 17th, 2017, the graduting students will be trained on Public Speaking and Presentation, Employability Skills, Project Management, The Business of their Talent and how to thrive during their NYSC year. Our online training session every first Friday of every month still continues, you can view the session on twitter @biulsc #LSCInspires. At BIU LSC, the journey of life after school starts here.

SECURITY ALERT s part of the measures to ensure security in the Uni- versity and to help solve some security challenges, the Management has introduced the use of emer- Agency numbers. This is to enable staff and students report emergency cases that may come their way while on campus. The emergency numbers are: 07019158819, 07019161235 In view of the above, Management has also decided that any staff member or student not wearing his/her ID card will not be allowed into the Campus. NUPTIALS r. Reuben Agbebaku of the Security Department tied Mthe knot with his beloved, Ms. Evidence Osaikhuwuom- wan. The solemnization ceremony was held at the Voice of Freedom Ministries, Benin City on the 20 th of May, 2017. The University Community wishes them a wonderful union.

Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Agbebaku (nee Osikhuwuomwan). •Cross section of the Faculty of Engineering complex 6 Alumni Spotlight

Benson Idahosa University Alumni is an association of all graduates of Benson Idahosa University and the then Christian Faith University. The Alumni Spotlight is mainly for the purpose of showcasing the University’s graduates.

NAME: CHIZOBA ANOLIEFO MAJOR: COMPUTER SCIENCE YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2009

A telecommunication & networking engineer reflects on how lecturing at Benson Idahosa University Cisco Networking Academy, helped him become a better Cisco Instructor and engineer.

At what point did you know it would be Benson Idahosa University? Initially, plans to study my most preferred professional course, Medicine & Surgery proved abortive and so I had to concen- trate on my major interest then, which was computing. I discovered that Benson Idahosa University offered my program of interest, Computer Science. So i applied to study Computer Science in the University and luckily gained admission to study Computer Science in 2005. I told myself, since God had ordered my steps here, well, let 's see how far He would take me.

How did your undergraduate experience in school influence your career path? At Benson Idahosa University, we were always given that confidence that we could be anything we wanted to be in life. So, when this statement is repeated every day, you practically start living it. I was studying computer science, but my passion was computer networking, a branch of Computer Science. I had the opportunity to lecture at the Benson Idahosa University Cisco Networking Academy, and this helped me become a better Cisco Instructor and engineer. Benson Idahosa University drew me closer to God. I have always been a Christian but I never had that personal relationship with God. Studying at Ben- son Idahosa University changed my perception. I began to recognize the handwork of God in my life every day.

Can you tell us about your professional experience after graduation? After my undergraduate studies, I started working with NHAMES Group in Lagos as a Cisco instructor. I worked there for two years. Later, I joined Shell Nigeria in 2013 as Network and Telecommunications engineer. I was posted to Shell Port Harcourt where I worked for 3 years, before moving to Shell Lagos. I was with Shell until December 2016, when I moved to Canada. I am currently working with Cold Logic, located in Langley, British Columbia. My passion in Computer networking makes it very easy for me to discharge my duties as a network engineer. I love to see people communicate online seamlessly and be happy with the ease at which the connection was established. Now, because of the ever changing technological landscape, scalability might become a problem. Therefore I love combining the old and new technologies, and finding ways to interface the both of them.

What is the best piece of advice you can give to our prospective alumni? For students, I would say be patient, be steadfast in serving God, be committed to your chosen career. Always try to align yourself with people who are where you want to be. Do not discuss your problems with people who have similar problems, because all you will do, is to talk about the problems only; instead interact with people who have got the solutions. For Alumni,the alumni community should be leveraged upon and those who have made an impact in their career path can mentor students of Benson Idahosa University. They can give students practical ways to change the direction of their studies positively and ways to cope and excel after graduation.

7 Birthday Bounty Mr. Tobe E. Ekeoba June 1st STAFF PROFILE Miss. Omosede Ogbeide June3rd Dr. M. D. Oisamoje June3rd OF THE MONTH Dr. Nosa L. Aisien June 3rd Mrs. Prinye G. Otoide June 3rd Mr. A. E. Odion June 5th Mrs. Comfort Agu June 6th Mr. O. R. Aimuan June 6th REV. MRS. Mr. Peter Ativie June 8th Mrs. K.N. Ezirim June 8th STELLA OGE Mrs. E. O. Daniel June 9th Mr. Tope .F. Orairu June 10th EKEOBA Mr. Joel Arimie June 12th Mr. E. P. Ebhomielen June 12th Mrs. Gladys C. Osajie June 13th CBSU: Please tell us about yourself? Mrs. G. O .Agbonlahor June 13th My name is Rev. Mrs. Stella Oge Ekeoba, from the faculty of Mr. M. I. Idemudia June 13th Mrs. Blessing Chide June 14th Arts and Education, Department of Christian Religious Stud- Mr. Samson Ehinoma June 14th Mrs. E. Oleabhiele June 14th ies, Benson Idahosa University. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Mr. O. L. Obadan June 14th Theology. I joined the University Community on the 2nd of Mr. Barikui Owutabor June 15th Mrs. Frances N. Olisaka June 19th February, 2002, as a Graduate Assistant. I am presently a Lec- Mr. Walter A. Osazuwa June 20th turer 1 staff. I have served in various committees such as Cur- Mr. D.O. Momodu June 21st Mr. N.I. Nwokeocha June 23rd riculum Planning Committee, the Disciplinary Committee, Mr. Peter Erebor June 26th and The Campus Beautification Committee. Mr. Danlami Basak June 26th Mr. Anthony Onwukanjo June 27th Mrs. Andra Ibili June 27th CBSU: What is your area of specialization? Mrs. Philomina Njoku June 30th Mrs. Blessing Omale June 30th My area of specialization is Christian Theology. Dr. Abraham O. Ihensekhien June 30th Mr. Philip Aire July 1st Prof. A. R. Anao July 1st CBSU: How many articles/journals have you written and Mrs. J.O. Adeyeye July 1st Mrs. J. O. Okani July 1st published so far? Miss. Patience Okon July 3rd I have written and published four books which are; Sin Appre- Samuel Nnamdi Uche July 6th Mrs. Saadatu Idris-Eirenyi July 7th hended, Evil exposed and Conquered, Visa to the Kingdom Mr. F.G. I. Orhewere July 9th of God and The Great Reversal of the Great Human Tragedy. Mrs. Faith Eibhalemen July 9th Mrs. Ehisiemen Aihie July 9th Also, I have 3 published articles. Mr. Lucky Erusiafe July 12th Dr. Mark Osamagbe Ighile July 13th Mrs. I. Aimure July 15th CBSU: How has your experience been as a staff of Benson Mrs. Patience Ogbeide July 18th Mr. Samuel .C. Aliagu July 20th Idahosa University? Mrs. Joyce Idehen July 21st My experience here has been great. My only regret is that, I Mrs. Faith Ibeh July 22nd Mr. N. E. Ojete July 22nd should have joined the academia much earlier in life .It is my Mr. K. O. Igbinigie July 23rd calling and ministry. The Vision and God's Mandate for Ben- Mr. J. O. Omorodion July 24th Mr. O. D. Osemwengie July 25th son Idahosa University is what my life is about. Mrs. R. E. Abusomwan July 25th Prof. Sam Guobadia July 25th Mrs. J. U. Ataha July 26th CBSU: If you were the Vice Chancellor of the University, how Mrs. Joseph Onaghise July 27th Mrs. RoseMary .O. Obasi July 31st differently would you run it? Mrs. E. O. Okungbowa July 31st The back seat drivers appear to see more than the driver. So far, the Vice Chancellor has done so well. He is doing a fan- tastic job in trying to reposition the University. Staff salaries are been paid on time without delay. I would ensure that the Baby Bounty University's policy for staff capacity building is adhered to. Mrs. Eke Esther Nkiruka of the Social and Management Sciences Department CBSU: What makes the Faculty of Arts and Education welcomed her bundle of joy on the 30th unique? of April, 2017. Congratulations. Our faculty is the faculty of humanities and it is the hub that enables the University meet its mandate. In other words, it is the heartbeat of our precious community, Benson Idahosa FOR FEEDBACK AND CONTRIBUTIONS University. SEND AN EMAIL TO: [email protected]