UNIVERSITY OF BENIN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NORTH AMERICA
PRESS RELEASE
UBAANA Celebrates Twenty Years of Excellence, Leadership and Service at Historic Massachusetts Reunion Alumni, As distinguished leaders, traditional rulers, public officials, innovators and friends of the University of Benin gather in Massachusetts to honour two decades of fellowship, leadership and service
MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES, July 27, 2026
The University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA) has marked a historic milestone in its journey, celebrating its 20th Anniversary Reunion from July 23 to 26, 2026 in Massachusetts, United States.
The landmark celebration brought together alumni from across North America and beyond, alongside distinguished guests, university leaders, traditional rulers, public officials, entrepreneurs and friends of the University of Benin, for three unforgettable days of fellowship, leadership, innovation and renewed commitment to their alma mater.
The anniversary commemorated two decades of UBAANA’s unwavering dedication to connecting alumni, promoting professional excellence, supporting educational advancement, strengthening lifelong friendships and advancing the global reputation of the University of Benin.
The programme was carefully curated to blend professional development, leadership engagement, innovation, entrepreneurship, networking, cultural experience and family life.
Highlights included a Welcome Reception, Boston city tours, a Boston Harbor boat cruise, an Interactive Leadership Session, an AI Innovation Showcase, Variety Night, the Annual Business Meeting, a family picnic, and a spectacular Gala and Awards Dinner.
Celebrating Twenty Years of Impact
Since its establishment in 2006, UBAANA has served as the premier organisation connecting University of Benin alumni across North America, promoting fellowship, mentorship, professional development, philanthropy, community service and meaningful support for the University of Benin.
The 20th Anniversary Reunion offered an opportunity to celebrate the Association’s remarkable journey, recognise outstanding alumni, strengthen enduring friendships, forge new partnerships and recommit members to building an even stronger and more impactful organisation for the generations to come.
Reflecting on the significance of the milestone, UBAANA President, Engr. Osasere F. Osifo, said:
“Our 20th Anniversary Reunion was far more than a celebration of our past. It was a reaffirmation of our shared purpose and our collective future. Over three memorable days, we celebrated excellence, honoured distinguished alumni, strengthened lifelong friendships, showcased innovation, and renewed our commitment to supporting the University of Benin. The unity, enthusiasm and spirit demonstrated throughout the reunion remind us that UBAANA’s greatest achievements are still ahead of us.”
An Inspiring Keynote Address
One of the defining moments of the reunion was the keynote address delivered by Chief (Dr.) Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan, SAN, whose thought-provoking presentation challenged alumni to embrace visionary leadership, intentional philanthropy and institution building.
Drawing lessons from globally respected universities, he urged alumni to think beyond individual success and to invest collectively in building sustainable structures that will strengthen the University of Benin for generations to come. His message resonated deeply with attendees and reinforced UBAANA’s commitment to initiatives that create lasting value for the University and its students.
Interactive Leadership Session Sparks Meaningful Dialogue
Another major highlight was an engaging Interactive Leadership Session featuring Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Famous Osawaru, Member of the House of Representatives representing the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Nigeria.
The session gave attendees a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of Nigeria’s leading legislators on governance, leadership, public service and national development. Hon. Chief Dr. Osawaru shared perspectives drawn from his experience in public office while encouraging greater collaboration between Nigerians in the diaspora and leaders at home.
Participants explored nation building, youth empowerment, diaspora engagement, public accountability and the role alumni associations can play in contributing to societal progress. The exchange was robust and wide ranging, reaffirming UBAANA’s commitment to creating platforms where accomplished leaders and alumni can hold conversations that inspire positive change.
Innovation Showcase Highlights African Artificial Intelligence
Innovation and entrepreneurship took centre stage through a special technology presentation by Mike Okoli, a University of Benin alumnus, entrepreneur and technology innovator based in Canada.
Mr. Okoli introduced attendees to SabiPT, an Afrocentric artificial intelligence platform designed to reflect African contexts, languages, culture and lived experience.
The live demonstration showcased the growing potential of African-led innovation in artificial intelligence and sparked engaging discussion on technology, entrepreneurship and the transformative role AI can play in addressing challenges and creating opportunities across Africa and the global African diaspora.
The presentation underscored UBAANA’s commitment to fostering innovation by giving alumni a platform to showcase groundbreaking ideas, celebrate entrepreneurial excellence and inspire the next generation of technology leaders.
Recognising Distinguished Alumni
A highlight of the Gala and Awards Dinner was the recognition of distinguished alumni whose exceptional achievements continue to bring honour to the University of Benin and inspire excellence around the world. UBAANA proudly presented the following awards:
Chief (Dr.) Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan, SAN, UBAANA Distinguished Alumni Award for Excellence in Law and Leadership.
H.I.M Professor Fuankem Achankeng I, BA (First Class Hons.), MA, MA, PhD, The Nyatema of Atoabechied, UBAANA Distinguished Alumni Award for Traditional Leadership and Global Service.
Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Famous Osawaru, UBAANA Distinguished Alumni Award for Excellence in Public Service and Legislative Leadership.
Prince (Dr.) Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, SAN, UBAANA Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Alumni Leadership.
These recognitions celebrated exemplary leadership, distinguished professional accomplishment, dedicated public service and unwavering commitment to advancing the ideals of the University of Benin.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Historic Celebration
The anniversary reunion was honoured by the presence of an exceptional array of distinguished guests, including:
H.I.M Professor Fuankem Achankeng I, The Nyatema of Atoabechied, accompanied by Her Majesty the Queen.
Chief (Dr.) Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan, SAN.
Prince (Dr.) Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, SAN, Former Worldwide President, University of Benin Alumni Association.
Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Famous Osawaru, Member, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Their presence reflected the enduring strength, influence and global reach of the University of Benin alumni community.
University Leadership Affirms Strong Partnership with UBAANA
The 20th Anniversary Reunion further underscored the enduring partnership between the University of Benin and its global alumni community through the goodwill and participation of the University’s leadership.
Although Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, was unable to participate in person or virtually, he conveyed his warm congratulations and best wishes through an official goodwill message to the Association.
In his message, the Vice Chancellor commended UBAANA for two decades of exemplary leadership, service and unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of the University. He applauded the Association’s enduring contributions to alumni engagement and encouraged members to remain united in supporting the University’s continued growth, academic excellence, research and global reputation.
The Association also welcomed Professor Eddie Erhagbe, FHSN, Director, Directorate of Advancement and Alumni Relations, University of Benin, who joined the reunion virtually via Zoom.
Delivering an inspiring presentation on alumni engagement, Professor Erhagbe emphasised the indispensable role alumni play in the University’s development and challenged graduates to deepen their commitment to mentorship, philanthropy, strategic partnerships, institutional advancement and active participation in alumni affairs.
He commended UBAANA for its remarkable achievements over the past twenty years and encouraged alumni across North America to continue serving as proud ambassadors of the University of Benin, working collaboratively with the University to expand opportunities for students, strengthen alumni engagement and support initiatives that will secure the institution’s future.
His address reinforced the shared vision between the University of Benin and UBAANA to cultivate a vibrant, globally connected alumni community dedicated to the continued advancement of the University.
Massachusetts Chapter Delivers a Landmark Reunion
The outstanding success of the 20th Anniversary Reunion is a testament to the exceptional leadership, dedication and commitment of the Massachusetts Chapter, whose vision and tireless effort created an unforgettable experience for alumni and guests.
Under the exemplary leadership of Rev. Iguodala Girolamo, Chair of the Massachusetts Chapter, together with his Executive Committee and chapter members, the Association’s newest chapter hosted a reunion that exceeded expectations. From planning and logistics to hospitality and flawless execution, the Massachusetts Chapter demonstrated remarkable professionalism, creativity, teamwork and attention to detail, delivering an event that will long be remembered as one of the finest reunions in UBAANA’s history.
The Association also acknowledges the contributions of the 20th Anniversary Local Organising Committee, chaired by Mrs. Isoken Owie, and expresses appreciation to all committee members, volunteers, sponsors and supporters whose service contributed to the success of the celebration. Through their collective effort, attendees enjoyed an outstanding programme that reflected the excellence, hospitality and spirit of UBAANA.
Looking Ahead
As UBAANA begins its third decade, the Association remains steadfast in its mission of strengthening alumni engagement, supporting the University of Benin, promoting mentorship and leadership development, encouraging philanthropy, and building strategic partnerships that will benefit future generations of students and alumni.
The Association also announced that its 21st Annual Reunion will be hosted by the DMV Chapter, representing Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Planned as a homecoming for University of Benin alumni from every corner of North America, it will carry the fellowship of the twentieth anniversary forward into UBAANA’s third decade.
The success of the 20th Anniversary Reunion stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when alumni unite behind a shared vision. UBAANA looks forward with renewed optimism and determination to continuing its legacy of excellence, leadership, service and impact in the years ahead.
About UBAANA
The University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA) is the umbrella organisation representing University of Benin alumni across North America. Since its establishment in 2006, UBAANA has promoted fellowship, leadership, professional development, community service, philanthropy and strategic initiatives that advance the interests of the University of Benin and its global alumni community.