Published on December 21st, 2023 | by Alberto Krinsky
0A New Chapter: Pastor Chris as Weldios University’s Chancellor
The recent inauguration at Weldios University, Cotonou, Benin Republic, marked a critical moment as the globally revered televangelist Pastor Chris Oyakhilome assumed the esteemed role of Chancellor.
Applauded as a transformative step, this appointment is anticipated to bring abundant blessings and fortune to the institution.
Ugo Magnus Kel, the University’s Registrar, highlighted the profound impact Pastor Chris’s acceptance could have on breaking barriers that limit the African continent.
Pastor Chris’s Vision
Dr. Desmond Oyakhilome, representing his father, Pastor Chris, at the academic board meeting, emphasized the acceptance as a call to duty and a continuation of Pastor Chris’s unwavering service to God and humanity.
Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Dr. Desmond sees it as an opportunity to showcase their beliefs to the world and elevate the institution globally.
“This is a remarkable way of letting the world know what we believe in. We want to take the world of God out there. We need their buy-in of this wonderful product in town. I think by appointing my fad the Chancellor, there is where they dream to see the institution in the nearest feature; that is where we are aiming.” he declared.
Pastor Chris’s Leadership Honors
Mallam Abba Aminu Kano, a board member, expressed profound honor in having Pastor Chris shoulder the responsibility of being the Chancellor.
Recognizing the global impact of Pastor Chris, Kano emphasized the international scope of his influence, transcending borders, religions, gender, and ethnicity.
“His impact has continued to stretch beyond border, beyond religion, beyond gender and beyond colour. He is not localised, he is not regional, he is indeed international in scope.
“This is not in anyway about promoting religion not ethnicity. As Africans, we have to depart from this norm before we will get to where we want to get to; that is what we are promoting, and that is why we found him worthy to be our Chancellor, and we are proud to associate with him” she said.
The appointment symbolizes a departure from regional norms, aligning with the institution’s vision for excellence.
AASU President’s Perspective: Recognizing Excellence in Academic Recognition
Comrade Enyinna Osisiogu, President of the All African Students Union (AASU) and a University board member commended the recognition bestowed upon Pastor Chris, stating that his rich profile makes him deserving of such academic acknowledgment.
“Coming from a great event yesterday where history was made. This great university decided to have as its Chancellor this great man of God and our father, Rev. Dr Chris Oyakhilome, who graciously has accepted to serve in that capacity.
“This appointment is a testament to his antecedent of excellence, especially in the ministry and other works of life.”
“He is actually one of those few who have been consistent and passionate about investing in education for excellence across the continent and across the globe. We may not want to talk about how he has revolutionized the televangelism space of the world; How he has built men that have built nations in Africa and the world,” she added.
Osisiogu highlighted Pastor Chris’s consistency and passion for investing in education, emphasizing his role in building leaders across Africa and the world.
Ambassador Kirti Sudhanshu: Creating Legacy Through Service
Ambassador (Dr.) Kirti Sudhanshu, an Indian member of the board, expressed immense happiness for the honor of serving alongside Pastor Chris.
As a woman and foreigner, she sees the appointment as a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in service to humanity.
“I am grateful for this opportunity to service humanity. It’s difficult to be a woman, also difficult to be a foreigner, but am blessed in Nigeria, Nigeria is my country. Through this appointment, I will leave a worthy legacy in the sands of time; that is my wish,” she said.
Kirti Sudhanshu envisions creating a worthy legacy during her tenure on the board, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve in Nigeria, which she considers her country.
A Testament to Pastor Chris’s Commitment
Acknowledging Pastor Chris’s impact beyond borders, religions, and regions, Weldios University stands as a testament to his commitment to excellence in education.
The appointment of Pastor Chris as Chancellor aligns with the institution’s vision for a Christ-centered, globally recognized educational hub poised to dispel negative perceptions associated with universities in the Benin Republic.