Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria’s first private university, has held its 23rd Convocation ceremony in a colourful celebration that drew dignitaries, students and families to the institution’s main campus in Edo State.

Declaring the ceremony open, the Chancellor and Founder, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, who spoke through the Deputy Chancellor and former Edo State Governor, Lucky Igbinedion, said the event marked another milestone in the university’s 26-year journey. 

He noted that the institution has continued to uphold its vision of delivering quality education and producing globally competitive graduates.

Presenting the graduating students to the Chancellor, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Lawrence Ezemonye, announced that a total of 1,050 candidates were being awarded first degrees, postgraduate degrees and diplomas.

The breakdown includes 67 first-class graduates, 408 second-class upper, 162 second-class lower, and 188 postgraduate degree recipients, comprising doctoral, master’s and postgraduate diploma holders.

Professor Ezemonye said the university remains committed to advancing knowledge and nurturing specialists capable of driving development at the highest level. 

He added that Igbinedion University has secured full accreditation from the National Universities Commission and all relevant professional bodies, including the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Nursing and Midwifery Council, Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria and the Council of Legal Education.

In his address, Pro-Chancellor and chairman of the Governing Council of the university, Ahmed Tijani-Mora, charged the graduates to uphold the values of the institution and project excellence wherever they go.

The ceremony featured academic processions, awards and celebrations, marking yet another chapter in the university’s contribution to Nigeria’s educational growth.