By Osaro Matthew, Usugun A. Andrew, Owobu Maureen, Adegoke Adedoyin
The inaugural ‘League of Braniacs,’ hosted by SUG President Comr. Israel Nmoye at the University of Benin’s main auditorium on August 9, 2023, witnessed a resounding victory for the faculty of Social Sciences. Originally scheduled for 10am, the academic showdown commenced at 11:30am. The event began with the introduction of esteemed guests already seated, followed by the University of Benin anthem.
In the presence of dignitaries and students, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Ekhehuan campus, Prof. B.A Ayinde, standing in for Vice Chancellor Prof. Lillian Salami, extended a warm welcome. Prof. Ayinde acknowledged the significance of the event and encouraged students to utilize such platforms for academic growth. As the Chairperson of the Vice Chancellors in Nigeria, he officially inaugurated the program.
The President of the Students’ Union Government, and convener of the event, Comr. Israel Nmoye, welcomed with applause, acknowledged the attendance of the President of the World Medical Association, Dr. Osahon Enabulele. The crowd enjoyed a saxophonist’s performance before the quiz masters prepared for the first round.
Comr. Nmoye highlighted the event’s objective to showcase the intellectual prowess of University of Benin students across its fifteen faculties. He praised the educational achievements of Edo State Governor, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki, and his contributions to the university’s progress.
The competition began with Group A featuring Faculties of Dentistry, Medicine, Basic Medical Science, and Pharmacy. Contestants answered fifty questions, with a time limit of twenty-five seconds for regular questions and sixty seconds for questions requiring calculations.
Ogho Precious, a 300L theater art student and flutist, thrilled the audience with her wonderful performance, entertaining attendees with sonorous notes. Dr. Osahon Enabulele, invited to talk and welcomed with a standing ovation, shared his life story, motivating students to aspire for greatness through vision, reading, seminars, and dedication. The first stage of the competition started at 1:45 pm, with Dentistry securing victory in Group A.
Excitement surged as Governor Godwin Obaseki and his wife Betsy graced the event with their presence. SUG President Comr. Israel Nmoye acknowledged their presence, followed by a speech from the Deputy Vice Chancellor. Comedian Casino, a graduate of Agricultural Sciences, who was also a former vice president of the SUG, was called upon to talk to students. With several jokes, he lightened the atmosphere with humour and praised the Governor’s achievements.
Her Excellency Betsy Obaseki addressed the students before the second round. She emphasized the Governor’s commitment to changing politics and encouraged students to leverage academic events for future leadership. The second round began as the faculty of Arts and the faculty of Law locked horns for group C. This stage saw Law emerge winners with 12113 points. Comedian Porcupine entertained the crowd, after which Comr. Nmoye further highlighted Governor Obaseki’s impact in education, economy, and agriculture.
The Governor received an award for his contributions, presented by the Vice Chancellor, Dean of Students, and SUG President. Governor Obaseki then gave a speech, expressing his appreciation to the the organisers of such brilliant event. He pledged support for future seasons of the events, including a ten million naira fund and free WiFi for the university in thirty days. His departure after the promise left students excited.
Comedian Femi Bass aka Zwalacata entertained the crowd, and Her Excellency Betsy Obaseki received from Prof. Ayinde, a portrait which was drawn live on stage by a 500-level Law student of Ambrose Alli University (AAU).
The third round of the debate featured Groups B and D, with Engineering and Social Sciences emerging as winners with 8890 points and 12,579 points respectively. Veterinary medicine secured its spot in the finals from Group E.
Dr. Osahon Enabulele received an award from the Students Union Government and the University of Benin for his achievements, being a product of UNIBEN.
The finale included Dentistry, Law, Social Science, Engineering, and Veterinary Medicine faculties. They shook hands with Her Excellency Betsy Obaseki, and a magician added excitement to the occasion.
After a spirited competition, the Faculty of Social Sciences clinched victory with 7661 points, making them the champions of the first League of Braniacs event. Faculty of Law took second place, while Veterinary Medicine secured the first runner-up position. Comr. Nmoye clarified that prize money of N500,000, N300,000, and N200,000 would be awarded to representatives, not the faculties.
Dr. Enabulele presented the first runner-up award, Prof. Ayinde present the award to the second place, and Her Excellency Betsy Obaseki, along with Prof. Clement Ighodaro, presented the winners’ award, bringing the academic showdown to a close.
Support ACJ UNIBEN's goal of always bringing truth to light.
Excellent campus journalism requires financial support. Yet, it is this very journalism that contributes to an informed campus community, transparency in educational institutions, and an engaged student body. To continue offering free access to top-notch campus journalism, we invite you to consider making a modest contribution to this worthwhile endeavor. Your support for ACJ UNIBEN's campus journalism ensures its relevance and availability to all students, free of charge, fostering an informed and active campus community.
DONATE