The Governing Council and Management of Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) on Tuesday hosted a lecture in honour of the institution’s Chancellor and Founder, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion as part of activities to commemorate his 92nd birthday anniversary.

Speaking during the lecture to celebrate the Igbinedion University Founder,Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, who led management staff, appreciated the founder for birthing the idea for the establishment of the first private university in Nigeria.

Prof. Ezemonye said that the historical event is the university’s way of celebrating a truly exceptional Nigerian, a distinguished statesman, an educationist, and a father to many generations.

“For ninety-two years, our Chancellor has demonstrated that greatness is not measured merely by personal success but by the number of lives uplifted and opportunities created for others. Through his entrepreneurial ingenuity and philanthropic spirit, he has built enduring institutions, empowered countless individuals, and contributed significantly to national development. His life remains a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, integrity, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

“The establishment of Igbinedion University Okada as Nigeria’s first private university remains one of the most profound expressions of his vision and commitment to education. Long before private universities became commonplace, he received the transformative power of education and invested substantially in creating an institution that continues to produce globally competitive graduates and responsible citizens.

Today, thousands of alumni scattered across the world stand as living testimonies to his foresight and generosity. “Ezemonye said.

The Vice-Chancellor added that the Chancellor’s life is an inspiration to many to dream bigger, serve selflessly, and leave positive footprints on the sands of time.

Notable personalities who attended the institution’s birthday lecture include Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council Igbinedion University Okada, Prof. Ahmed Tijani Mora, Prof. Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, a professor of African Economic History and Development Studies, who delivered the lecture with the topic, “A tapestry of nine decades of wisdom. Still counting: The journey and the legacy. “