UNIBEN Development Trust Fund Launches Portal and N100 Billion Fund Drive
The University of Benin Development Trust Fund (UNIBENTDF), inaugurated in February 2026, has officially launched a digitally interactive web portal with donation capabilities and announced a N100 billion fund drive scheduled for July 4, 2026. The initiative aims to transform the institution's infrastructure and strengthen its sustainable financial independence through collaborations with investors across multiple sectors.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony in Benin City, Vice Chancellor Prof. Edoba Omoregie explained that the initiative was created after studying successful self-funding models adopted by top universities worldwide. He stated that the project is designed to reposition UNIBEN as a self-sustaining institution capable of funding major developmental projects without heavy reliance on government subventions.
The fund will support the construction of several landmark projects, including a modern library, state-of-the-art student hostels, a world-class hotel and conference centre, sports and recreational facilities, and a standard abattoir equipped with agricultural research laboratories. These facilities will serve not only staff and students but also the wider Edo State and Nigerian society.
Prof. Omoregie noted that the projects will improve the learning environment while creating employment opportunities and generating long-term revenue for the institution and surrounding communities. He highlighted that the university management inherited deteriorating hostels and significant electricity-related liabilities, making sustainable development urgent.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described the initiative as a major milestone in UNIBEN's journey toward becoming a globally competitive and enterprise-driven institution. He thanked other BOT members, including Chief Richard Oma Ahonaruogho SAN, Emmanuel Oriazuwa Esq, Kingsley Jesuorobo Esq, and Mr. Alexander Eromon, for their dedication.
Pastor Ize-Iyamu disclosed ongoing discussions with alumni associations, government representatives, investors, and private sector stakeholders to attract support and partnerships. He announced that the official fundraising launch is scheduled for July 4, 2026, with additional projects such as a state-of-the-art library and improved transportation systems for students and staff as part of the long-term vision. He remarked, "The trees we plant today will shape the generations of tomorrow, and a society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in. Today, let us pick our shovels together as we begin planting those trees."
The institution's ICT team, led by Mr. Kehinde Samuel, introduced the digital portal, which allows donors and partners to monitor projects, track contributions, access updates, and ensure transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process.
During the vote of thanks, Dr. Mrs. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, Consultant Gynaecologist and BOT member, expressed appreciation to fellow BOT members, sub-planning committee members, university staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders who have embraced and supported the initiative. She described UNIBENTDF as a visionary step toward repositioning the university for greater excellence and sustainable growth, welcoming investors and encouraging supporters to promote the initiative using #UNIBENTDF.
Dr. Ogboro-Okor urged the public, alumni, partners, and well-wishers to visit the official Trust Fund portal at https://trustfund.uniben.edu/ to stay informed about ongoing projects, development updates, and opportunities to contribute to the sustainable advancement of the institution.
