By Raymond Ebireri and Ayomide Oyinlola
The Rotaract Club of the University of Benin today, 12th October 2024, held the installation ceremony of its 40th President, Rtr Osama Joel Woghiren. The event, tagged “Owambe Fest,” took place at ASUU Hall, Uniben, Ugbowo Campus. The ceremony was graced by distinguished personalities, reputable campus organisations, student union association leaders and representatives, as well as students of the University of Benin, friends, and well-wishers of the newly installed President.
The event commenced at exactly 1:30 pm with a call to order by the outgoing President, a customary practice in every Rotaract gathering. This was followed by the recitation of the Nigerian national anthem, the Rotaract Prayer, and Praise. Some Rotaractors were called upon to explain what Rotaract is about, the Purpose of Rotaract, and Rotaract Goals respectively, in order to sensitise the audience on the club’s mission.
An opening speech was delivered by Rtr Salome Amogo, Vice President of the Rotaract Club Uniben, followed by the introduction of guests and dignitaries. Notable guests present included Rtr Evelyn Nekpen Imode, President, Rotary Club of Benin Ekehuan Icons; Rtr Barr Osahon Woghiren (father of the newly installed 40th President); Comr Osahon Destiny Eseosa, Chairman, National Association of University Students Campus Monitoring Committee (CMC); and Comr Michael Imoloame, National Vice President, NAUS, among others. Associations present included the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Union of Benin Students (NUBS), National Association of Edo State Students (NAESS), Association of Campus Journalists (ACJ), Uniben Debate Society (UDS), Red Cross Society, Uniben Detachment, among others, all of which were ably represented.
The outgoing President, Rtr Charis Patrick, gave her welcome speech, after which the installation of the 40th President, Rtr Osama Woghiren, took place, marked by dancing and enthusiastic cheers from the audience. The President’s citation (biography) was read by one of the attendees, Miss Osaivbie. As a symbol of office, the gong of authority was handed over to the newly installed President, along with the certificate from the Rotary Club Uniben.
Upon being installed, the President delivered his speech, expressing gratitude to his faculty representatives (BAMSSA), department (Radiography), family, and everyone who attended the ceremony. He vowed to be fully committed, putting all his efforts and time into the growth of the club. This was followed by the inauguration of the Board of Directors 2024-2025 (referred to as “The Magicians”). Awards were presented to some deserving Rotaractors who demonstrated exceptional leadership capacity, unwavering commitment, humanitarian spirit, and selfless service to the club, as well as to individuals who contributed to the growth and development of the club. They included:
1. Rtr Daniel Temple
2. Rtr Jeffrey Itode
3. Rtr Special Ewomazino
4. Rtr Barr Osahon Woghiren
5. Dr Nosakhare Okungbowa
6. Rtr Salome Amogo
7. Rtr Cynthia Itama
8. Rtr Vivian Raphael
A musical performance by a guest artiste entertained the audience, followed by the induction of new members into the Rotary Club Uniben. The new inductees were asked several questions regarding the Rotary Club, such as the Rotaract Prayer, Rotaract Grace, the Four-Way Test, and the Goals of Rotaract, to assess their level of training, after which certificates were presented to them.
The event concluded at exactly 4:45 pm after a call to close by the newly installed 40th President. Overall, it was a truly amazing experience.