The Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University, Archbishop Margaret E Benson-Idahosa, JP, OON, on Saturday March 12th, 2016, laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Faculty of Engineering at a ground breaking ceremony held at the University’s Okha Campus.
The ceremony was among events lined up for commemoration of the 18th anniversary of the exit of the founder, Archbishop B.A Idahosa of blessed memory. Describing the ceremony as historic for the Institution and the entire Church of God Mission International (CGMi), the Chancellor announced that the Faculty would be named The Dr. Chris Oyahkilome Faculty of Engineering. The naming was in recognition of his contribution towards the development of the Faculty. She therefore prayed God to continually bless him for his kind gesture.
Meanwhile, the Chancellor also announced that the 1km Road leading to the University Campus at Okha will be named after the CEO of Ray Royal Construction Company, Bishop Matthew Okpebholo whom she said had pledged to tar the road.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, Engr. Goddie Isibor urged well-meaning Nigerians to key into the vision by partnering with the institution.
Earlier at the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ernest B. Izevbigie while welcoming all, expressed his appreciation to Rev. Chris Oyakhilome for his enormous donation to the Faculty building; he also expressed his gratitude to Bishop Mathew Okpebholo for his pledge to tar the road leading to the campus. Prof. Izevbigie noted that the Okha Campus of the university would be named Benson Idahosa University “Legacy Campus’’.
The ceremony saw the Chancellor unveil the plaque, lay the foundation stone as the ‘first builder’ and pour her apostolic blessings on the site; saying that by reason of the institution, Nigeria will be a sought-after destination for all.
Present at the ceremony were members of the University’s Governing Council, senior officers from the Nigerian Police Force led by the deputy Commissioner of Police (Edo State), respected clergies from Church of God Mission International and the All Nations for Christ Bible Institute International (ANFBII). Others include, Chairman of Freedom Group, Deacon Vincent Agenmonmen and leaders of Okha I & II Communities.
The world-class state of the art facility is designed to house Civil, Electrical Electronics, Mechanical and Chemical Engineering courses when completed. Meanwhile, the first set of engineering students are already enjoying lectures at their temporary facility. The Faculty has Prof. Ben Anyata as Dean. He is a Professor of Civil Engineering with specialty in water resources and environmental engineering.