The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, senator Monday Okpebholo has been bestowed a prestigious leadership award by the Ambrose Alli University Alumni Association (AAUAA) in recognition of his visionary leadership, steadfast commitment to education, and transformative contributions to Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.
The award was received on behalf of the Governor by the Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, (EDHA) Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, representing the people of Esan West Local Government Area who was also one of the recipients.
During the award ceremony, which held on Wednesday July 23, 2025 at the University premises, both the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Olowo Samuel, and the Chairman of the AAU Alumni Association, Professor Austin Aghemelo, as well as other dignitries lauded Governor Okpebholo for his profound impact on the Institution.
They highlighted numerous interventions that have significantly revitalized the University and restored confidence in its academic future.
Among key interventions praised by the university and alumni leadership include: Restoration of Accreditation, which revived the Department of Nursing, a vital step for the University’s academic standing.
Others are: Infrastructure Renewal; Scholarship Support, to provide assistance to deserving students; Subvention Increase, which brought a substantial increase in monthly subvention from N41 million to N500 million, greatly enhancing the University’s operational capacity; implementation of the new minimum wage for University staff; The just reinstatement of all unjustly dismissed staff, fostering a sense of fairness and stability within the institution; The strategic reconstitution of the university’s Governing Council, bringing renewed leadership and direction.
The governor was also lauded in appointment of competent principal officers to steer the university’s administration effectively and solar power installation of a 1.5 MW solar power project; a groundbreaking initiative to address energy challenges and ensure uninterrupted power supply on campus.
The Alumni Association expressed its deep gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for these interventions, acknowledging that they have not only improved the physical and financial state of the University but also boosted morale and paved the way for academic excellence.
Among other distinguished individuals honoured at the event were Mr. Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor and Mr. Henshaw Oligbe, Managing Director of the Edo State Transport Authority.
Professor Omeimen Ujuanbi, Director of Research Publication and Development and Former President of AAU Alumni Association gave a lecture titled “Beyond Graduation: Unlocking the Enduring Values of Alumni Associations for Individuals and Associatiins”
The award underscores Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to educational development in Edo State and his commitment to nurturing institutions like AAU to become centers of excellence.