By Abel Johngold Orheruata
The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Asaba Chapter, has concluded arrangements for its 2026 Annual Public Service Lecture, with Delta State’s trailblazing computer scientist and Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Professor Stella Chinye Chiemeke, billed to deliver the keynote address at the prestigious event scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
The lecture, which will also celebrate the 70th birthday of renowned legal practitioner and former Chairman of the UIAA Asaba Chapter, Barrister O. P. Origho, will be held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, beginning at 12 noon.
Professor Chiemeke, who holds the distinction of being Delta State’s first Professor of Computer Science and the first female Professor of Computer Science at the University of Benin, will speak on the theme: “Reimagining Nigeria from the Grassroots: Culture, Leadership, and the Path to National Renewal.”
Speaking during a media briefing in Asaba, the Publicity Secretary of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Asaba Chapter, Publicist Abel Johngold Orheruata., described the annual lecture as one of the association’s flagship intellectual engagements designed to stimulate informed dialogue and generate practical solutions to Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
According to him, this year’s lecture is particularly significant as it is dedicated to celebrating Barrister O. P. Origho, whose outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of the Asaba Chapter have continued to inspire members of the association.
Abel Johngold said the choice of Professor Chiemeke was informed by her exceptional accomplishments in academia, educational administration and public service.
The renowned publicist cum media practitioner noted that the distinguished scholar has consistently broken barriers throughout her illustrious career, emerging as Delta State’s first Professor of Computer Science, the first female Professor of Computer Science at the University of Benin, former Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and the Pioneer and Immediate Past Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor.
“Professor Stella Chinye Chiemeke has distinguished herself through visionary leadership, academic excellence, innovation and an unwavering commitment to educational advancement. These remarkable achievements undoubtedly informed our decision to invite her as the keynote lecturer for this year’s Public Service Lecture,” Abel Johngold stated.
He expressed confidence that the lecture would stimulate meaningful national conversations and provide enduring perspectives on governance, leadership and grassroots development.
“We have no doubt that her wealth of knowledge, experience and insight will inspire robust discourse on the critical issues confronting our nation. We also believe that the lecture will become a valuable reference material for scholars, policymakers, students and future generations,” Abel Johngold added.
Abel Johngold further explained that beyond promoting intellectual engagement, the annual lecture provides an opportunity for alumni to strengthen their bond while projecting the positive ideals and enduring legacy of Nigeria’s Premier University.
The UIAA Worldwide Publicity Secretary noted that, in line with global best practices, alumni associations are increasingly becoming strategic partners in institutional development and nation-building, adding that the University of Ibadan Alumni Association remains committed to supporting the continued growth of its alma mater while contributing meaningfully to national development.
The Delta State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, will serve as Chairman of the Occasion, while the Obi of Issele-Uku, His Royal Majesty Obi (Engr.) Nduka Ezeagwuna, an alumnus of the University of Ibadan, will grace the event as the Royal Father of the Day.
The Spiritual Father of the Day will be another distinguished alumnus of the University, Venerable Professor Job Orienru Akpodiete, RAS, FCASN, FNIAS, of the Anglican Communion, Diocese of Asaba.
The event is expected to attract the Worldwide President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, members of the Worldwide Executive Council, senior government officials, policymakers, traditional rulers, captains of industry, academics, legal practitioners, alumni of the University of Ibadan and other prominent stakeholders from across the country.
With its timely theme focusing on grassroots leadership, cultural values and national renewal, the 2026 University of Ibadan Alumni Association Public Service Lecture is expected to provide a unique platform for intellectual engagement and policy discourse aimed at advancing sustainable development and good governance in Nigeria.
