Established on 10 May 1999 by Sir Gabriel Osawaru IgbinedionCFR, IUO holds the distinction of being the first licensed private university in Nigeria.[1]
History and foundation
The institution officially opened its doors to foundation students on 15 October 1999. Sir Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, a philanthropist and prominent figure in Benin City, provided the visionary leadership that gave rise to IUO's establishment.[2]
The late Professor Anthony Uyekpen Osagie served as the inaugural vice-chancellor from 29 October 1999 to 30 November 2003. Professor Nduka Uraih, who held the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor, subsequently assumed the role of acting Vice Chancellor from December 2003 to 11 September 2004. Notably, Rev. Professor Eghosa Osaghae assumed the position of the second substantive vice chancellor, a role he held until June 2018 when Prof. Lawrence Ezemwonye became the V.C.[8]
Achievements and international engagements
I.U. partners with institutions such as the University of Westminster (UK) and Howard University (USA) to facilitate collaborative endeavors in various academic disciplines. Furthermore, IUO's membership in organizations like the Global University Network for Innovation (GUNI) and participation in the Network Towards Unity for Health (NUFH) demonstrate its active engagement on the global educational stage.[9]
Political science|Political Science and public administration|Public Administration
Sociology and Anthropology
International Relations and Strategic Studies
Theatre Arts
English
College Of Natural and Applied Sciences
Computer science and Information Technology|Computer Science and Information Technology
Biochemistry
Microbiology
Industrial Chemistry.
Physics.
College Of Business and Management Studies
Accounting
Banking and Finance
Business Administration
College Of Law
Law
Reputation
Over 10,000 people have graduated from various undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the University. Since its establishment in 1999, it has worked for prominent firms both within and outside of Nigeria.[10] It has also received support from people and organizations such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, which funded the creation of an ultra-modern library for the school, and former Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Paul Dike, who donated a complex.[11][12][13][14]
