WAEC Condoles with Oba of Benin’s Family

The management of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has commiserated with the family of the Oba of the Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Erediauwa, chiefs, elders and people of Benin Kingdom on his demise

The Oba died recently at the age of 92.

The council’s delegation led by the Registrar, Dr. Iyi Uwadiae, paid a condolence visit to Benin and was received on behalf of the royal family by the Edaiken N’Uselu, at the Edaiken Palace.

Speaking on behalf of the council, Uwadiae extolled the virtues of the Oba and recounted some of his contributions to the education of youths at all levels, as well as the close relationship he maintained with WAEC during his reign.

“For us in WAEC, the Oba’s love and passion for education was legendary. He instituted numerous prizes and made generous donations. In his youthful days in particular, he delivered countless inspiring talks at various educational fora. He stimulated engaging discussions on issues affecting the Nigerian university system, assisted institutions in the areas of discipline, funding and provision of infrastructure.

“Such was the impact he made that diverse honours were bestowed on him, a notable one being WAEC’s own Distinguished Friend of Council Award conferred on him in March 2005 for: endorsing our mandate and sharing our vision; being a massive pillar of support by identifying with our programmes; contributing to the seed capital for the WAEC Endowment Fund at its launch in Nigeria in 1985.”

Uwadiae added that the award was for: “encouraging our efforts to inculcate excellence, integrity and hard work among students in the youth; donating two trophies each year (since 1985) for the two schools in Nigeria that produce the best male and best female candidates respectively in our international examination; gracing our student award ceremonies in Nigeria with his royal presence.

“Even when he was unable to attend, he ensured that no fewer than two of his high chiefs were with us in full traditional splendor. His Royal Majesty will be sorely missed. It is our prayer that God will grant his gentle soul eternal rest.”

The registrar also prayed God to grant Edaiken N’Uselu the wisdom to confidently take over the reins of government in Benin Kingdom, and expressed hope that the existing cordial relationship between WAEC and the royal palace of Benin would not only be maintained but enhanced in his time.

In his response, Edaiken welcomed the WAEC delegation to Benin Kingdom and thanked the council for its warm remarks about the late monarch.

He assured the exam body that he would make efforts in the years ahead to sustain and build on his father’s relationship with it.