Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Chairman of the University of Benin
(UNIBEN) Trust Development Fund Board of Trustees, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has said that universities are no longer sustained by government subversions alone but through diversified funding sources built on enduring partnerships, embraced technology and institutional adaptability, and established systems capable of outliving administrations and generations.
Ize-Iyamu disclosed this during a press briefing in Benin, ahead of the official launch of the N100 billion University of Benin Trust Development Fund scheduled for the 4th of July, 2026, noting that thriving institutions are those that have diversified funding, built partnerships, embraced technology and adaptability, and established systems.
The chairman urged alumni to actively participate in the University of Benin Trust Development Fund (TDF) to foster institutional advancement within UNIBEN.
He emphasized the critical role that alumni and sustainable partnerships play in the ongoing transformation of higher institutions worldwide.
Ize-Iyamu said, “It is this evolving reality that drives the vision behind the University of Benin Trust Development Fund.
“Our mission is clear, to establish an enduring financial and development framework that will continuously empower the University of Benin to deliver excellence in teaching, research, infrastructure, technology, entrepreneurship, and human capital development that the future generations will be proud to inherit.”
Ize-Iyamu acknowledged the support from the Vice-Chancellor of University of Benin, Prof. Edoba Omoregie SAN, Chief Richard Ahonaruogho SAN, Emmanuel Oriazuwa Esq. Kingsley Jesuorobo Esq., Dr. (Mrs) Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor and Mr. Alexander Eronmwon for their dedication, generosity and unwavering support.
He said the UNIBEN TDF represents a strategic initiative to secure the financial future of the university and enable it to pursue ambitious development projects.
He said by actively engaging alumni and stakeholders, UNIBEN TDF aims to create a sustainable ecosystem of support that will drive innovation, enhance academic programs, and improve the overall student experience.
He said that the success of the TDF hinges on the collective commitment of the UNIBEN community to invest in the university’s future and ensure its continued growth and excellence.
He further urged all stakeholders, especially UNIBEN alumni worldwide, to contribute to the University of Benin Trust Development Fund to foster institutional progress, emphasizing that international higher education advancements are propelled by alumni support and sustainable partnerships.
