UBAANA Marks 20 Years of Impact at Historic Massachusetts Reunion

By Ogochukwu Isioma

MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES — The University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA) has marked a historic milestone in its journey, celebrating its 20th Anniversary Reunion from July 23 to 26, 2026 in Massachusetts, United States.

The landmark celebration brought together alumni from across North America and beyond, alongside distinguished guests, university leaders, traditional rulers, public officials, entrepreneurs and friends of the University of Benin, for three unforgettable days of fellowship, leadership, innovation and renewed commitment to their alma mater.

The anniversary commemorated two decades of UBAANA’s unwavering dedication to connecting alumni, promoting professional excellence, supporting educational advancement, strengthening lifelong friendships and advancing the global reputation of the University of Benin.

The programme was carefully curated to blend professional development, leadership engagement, innovation, entrepreneurship, networking, cultural experience and family life. Highlights included a Welcome Reception, Boston city tours, a Boston Harbor boat cruise, an Interactive Leadership Session, an AI Innovation Showcase, Variety Night, the Annual Business Meeting, a family picnic, and a spectacular Gala and Awards Dinner.

Celebrating Twenty Years of Impact

Since its establishment in 2006, UBAANA has served as the premier organisation connecting University of Benin alumni across North America, promoting fellowship, mentorship, professional development, philanthropy, community service and meaningful support for the University of Benin.

The 20th Anniversary Reunion offered an opportunity to celebrate the Association’s remarkable journey, recognise outstanding alumni, strengthen enduring friendships, forge new partnerships and recommit members to building an even stronger and more impactful organisation for the generations to come.

Reflecting on the significance of the milestone, UBAANA President, Engr. Osasere F. Osifo, said: “Our 20th Anniversary Reunion was far more than a celebration of our past. It was a reaffirmation of our shared purpose and our collective future. Over three memorable days, we celebrated excellence, honoured distinguished alumni, strengthened lifelong friendships, showcased innovation, and renewed our commitment to supporting the University of Benin. The unity, enthusiasm and spirit demonstrated throughout the reunion remind us that UBAANA’s greatest achievements are still ahead of us.”

An Inspiring Keynote Address

One of the defining moments of the reunion was the keynote address delivered by Chief (Dr.) Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan, SAN, whose thought-provoking presentation challenged alumni to embrace visionary leadership, intentional philanthropy and institution building.

Drawing lessons from globally respected universities, he urged alumni to think beyond individual success and to invest collectively in building sustainable structures that will strengthen the University of Benin for generations to come. His message resonated deeply with attendees and reinforced UBAANA’s commitment to initiatives that create lasting value for the University and its students.

Interactive Leadership Session Sparks Meaningful Dialogue

Another major highlight was an engaging Interactive Leadership Session featuring Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Famous Osawaru, Member of the House of Representatives representing the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Nigeria.

The session gave attendees a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of Nigeria’s leading legislators on governance, leadership, public service and national development.

Hon. Chief Dr. Osawaru shared perspectives drawn from his experience in public office while encouraging greater collaboration between Nigerians in the diaspora and leaders at home.

Participants explored nation building, youth empowerment, diaspora engagement, public accountability and the role alumni associations can play in contributing to societal progress. The exchange was robust and wide ranging, reaffirming UBAANA’s commitment to creating platforms where accomplished leaders and alumni can hold conversations that inspire positive change.

Innovation Showcase Highlights African Artificial Intelligence

Innovation and entrepreneurship took centre stage through a special technology presentation by Mike Okoli, a University of Benin alumnus, entrepreneur and technology innovator based in Canada.

Mr. Okoli introduced attendees to SabiPT, an Afrocentric artificial intelligence platform designed to reflect African contexts, languages, culture and lived experience. The live demonstration showcased the growing potential of African-led innovation in artificial intelligence and sparked engaging discussion on technology, entrepreneurship and the transformative role AI can play in addressing challenges and creating opportunities across Africa and the global African diaspora.

The presentation underscored UBAANA’s commitment to fostering innovation by giving alumni a platform to showcase groundbreaking ideas, celebrate entrepreneurial excellence and inspire the next generation of technology leaders.