By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
Former Worldwide 2nd Vice President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Chief Sir Francis Odion, has praised past and current leadership of the association while calling for deeper respect for the UIAA constitution and unity among its members.
Chief Odion made the remarks when he received the Worldwide President of UIAA, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, at his residence in Benin City, during Gajir’s ongoing peace and consolidation visitation to UIAA Branches and Chapters across the country.
Reflecting on the association’s journey, Chief Odion attributed UIAA’s rise to global recognition to the transformational leadership of former President, Professor Kemi Emina.
“Until Prof. Emina became president, UIAA wasn’t this globally known. He brought the association into the limelight. He built the foundation of what we enjoy today. I admire his selfless spirit,” he said.
Odion, who also served as Chairman of the Edo State Branch and is a retired Permanent Secretary, described Dr. Gajir as “cool-headed and focused,” expressing confidence in his ability to preserve and build upon the legacies of past leaders.
He, however, cautioned against the rising tide of internal disagreements, urging members to align with the association’s constitution. “Many of those causing problems are fully aware of the constitution but choose to disregard it. That is the root of the crisis,” he observed.
Odion recalled his pivotal role in presiding over the last constitutional amendment exercise during his tenure as 2nd Vice President, emphasizing that respect for the constitution remains critical to UIAA’s growth and stability.
Sharing his personal sacrifices, he narrated how he once collapsed and was hospitalized during an official assignment in service to the association. He also spoke about stepping down his presidential ambition in support of Prof. Elsie Olufunke Adewoye, to promote equitable regional representation.
“That move made it possible for the presidency to eventually rotate to the North, leading to the emergence of Prof. S. G. Nyityo. UIAA is a national institution, and its leadership must reflect its diversity,” Odion added.
He expressed delight that Edo State was the first branch visited by President Gajir, describing it as an honour and a testament to the branch’s enduring contributions to the association.
In response, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, accompanied by the Chairman of the Edo Branch, Prof. O. B. Osadolor, thanked the elder statesman for his warm reception and invaluable advice.
He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering peace and unity within the UIAA family, calling on members to separate personal grievances from the collective interests of the association.
“We are one family. UIAA must not be a platform for personal vendettas. This visit is about reconciliation, learning from our elders, and building bridges,” Gajir stated.
The interaction between the two leaders underlined a shared desire for constitutionalism, rotational leadership, and unity in diversity, setting a hopeful tone for UIAA’s future.
