Following the appointment of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare ll as the Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the renowned first class traditional ruler was formally installed as the 3rd Chancellor of the university.

The investiture ceremony of the Oba Ewuare II as new Chancellor of NOUN took place on Saturday, April 13, 2024 during the 13th Convocation Ceremony of the university, which took place at the Convocation Arena, NOUN headquarters, Jabi, Abuja.

The new chancellor has succeeded the immediate-past Chancellor of the university, His Royal Highness (HRH) Agabaidu, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, Och'Idoma IV.

During the investiture ceremony on Saturday, the renowned monarch was also conferred with the Honorary Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A) honoris Causa of the National Open University of Nigeria.

Speaking shortly after his installation, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare ll said, “I stand before you today, delighted and highly honoured, as I accept the esteemed position of the Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).”

The Oba of Benin responding after the investiture as NOUN 3rd Chancellor

While expressing his profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oba of Benin commended the president for deeming him “worthy of this significant responsibility,” adding that “your trust in me is both a privilege and challenge that I undertake with utmost dedication.

“I wish to also extend my sincere appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Education for facilitating this investiture ceremony, further underscoring the importance of education in our nation’s development. Your support and commitment to advancing educational institutions like ours are truly commendable.”

Speaking further, the new chancellor appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters and the entire management team for their support and contributions to the university.

“In the last couple of months that our paths crossed, I have not ceased to marvel at your dedication and unbending resolve to place the university on the global pedestal among the open universities.

“As I step into the role of Chancellor, I am acutely aware of the weight of responsibility that accompanies it. My vision for the National Open University of Nigeria is one of excellence, innovation and inclusivity. It is my fervent aspiration to leverage my position as traditional ruler to enhance the fortunes of this esteemed institution.

“Without any gainsaying, NOUN holds a unique position as a beacon of hope and opportunity in the realm of Open Distance e-learning mode of instructional delivery. We will do our best to ensure that this university remains not only a pioneer in Nigeria but also a shining example across the entirety of the Sub-Saharan Africa.

“As we all know, education knows no boundaries, and I am committed to fostering an environment where knowledge transcends borders and transforms lives,” the chancellor said.

Benin cultural troupe

While calling on the university community to work tirelessly to uphold the values upon which the NOUN was founded, and to chart a course towards an even brighter future, the chancellor said: “Together, we will embark on a journey of advancement and progress, guided by principles of integrity, scholarship and service.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all those who have entrusted me with this esteemed position. With your unwavering support and dedication, I am confident that we will continue to illuminate the path of learning for generations to come.”

Since inception, NOUN has produced three Chancellors: These are: His Royal Majesty, Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, the Eze Ogbunechendo of Ezema Olo and Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers as the first. He was succeeded by His Royal Highness (HRH), Agabaidu, the Och’Idoma of Idoma Kingdom, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa (late) as the second, while His Royal Majesty (HRM), Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, the Oba of Benin was installed as the third Chancellor of NOUN.