What was meant to be a gathering of old students to raise funds for the development of existing facilities and construction of new ones, ended up turning into a carnival for all Old Boys and guests present.
The evening was heralded by the triumphant entry of the President General Worldwide, His Royal Majesty, Albert Akpomudje, SAN, Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom (ALAKA I), accompanied by a Benin traditional troupe as they danced through the red carpet into the magnificent hall beautifully decorated with the colours of the College.
The dance steps were complemented by the Chairman of the National Annual Dinner Committee, Mr. Spencer Onosode, the Benin Branch President, Ahonsi Felix, Esq. (JP), members of the National Executive Council, as well as members of the Local Organizing Committee.
White attire radiated the entire hall, with the school muffler adorned on the neck.
The Benin dancing troupe came alive when both Excellencies, Senator Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governors of Edo and Delta States respectively, danced with the troupe to their seats.
Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Deputy Governor, represented the Governor of Edo State, while Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Commissioner for Higher Education, represented the Governor of Delta State.
Prof. Michael Diejomaoh, Chairman of the occasion, challenged Old Boys and guests to contribute generously towards improving teaching standards, while the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Douglason Omotor, harped on the need to embrace Artificial Intelligence alongside conventional teaching to adequately prepare students to handle future technological innovations.
The highpoint of the day was the fundraising session, which was quite eventful and highly successful.
The gathering attracted notable guests including Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, President General Worldwide of Edo College Old Students Association, Chief Ekaiwe Nosa Adeyan of St. Patrick’s College Old Students Association, members of the Ancient Mariners, captains of industry, as well as eminent academics who spiced up the hall.
In his closing remarks, HRM Albert Akpomudje, SAN, PGWW, applauded the Benin Branch, stating that this was the best hosting he has witnessed, especially as it marked his last National Dinner as President General Worldwide, with elections into the next National EXCO scheduled in four months.
Odiahi Paul
Secretary Benin Branch GCUOBA
