Oron Union Pushes For University, Calls Education Key To Oro Nation’s Future
By EMEM BENSON
Oron Union Renews Education Drive at 101st Founders’ Day
THE Oron Union has intensified calls for greater investment in education and the establishment of a University of Oron, describing both as critical to securing the future of the Oro nation amid growing socio-economic and developmental challenges.
The renewed advocacy formed the centre of discussions during the 101st Founders’ Day celebration and thanksgiving service of the Oron Union Lagos Branch, where community leaders, stakeholders and members reflected on the enduring vision of the organisation’s founding fathers and the future trajectory of Oro communities.
Held at the Union’s Community House in Lagos, the event focused on the theme, “The Founders’ Vision: Our Future,” and examined how educational advancement, youth development, cultural preservation and economic empowerment could shape the next phase of Oro development.
Preserving a Century-Old Vision
Addressing participants, Lagos Branch President, Nkereuwem Joshua, said the ideals that inspired the creation of the Oron Union more than a century ago remain relevant in contemporary society.
According to him, the founding fathers envisioned a united and progressive Oro nation at a time when the people faced fragmentation and limited opportunities.
Joshua noted that the responsibility of preserving and advancing that vision now rests with present and future generations.
He stressed that beyond celebrating historical achievements, the Oro people must focus on practical investments capable of improving educational outcomes, creating employment opportunities and strengthening community institutions.
Education as a Tool for Transformation
A major highlight of the event was the emphasis on education as the most reliable pathway to sustainable development.
Joshua urged Oro professionals, business leaders and community organisations to increase support for scholarship programmes, mentorship initiatives and educational infrastructure.
He argued that educational advancement remains central to improving the socio-economic standing of Oro communities and preparing young people for emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing global economy.
Participants also highlighted the need to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship and digital literacy among young people, noting that future competitiveness would depend heavily on access to quality education and skills acquisition.
Cultural Identity in a Digital Age
Beyond formal education, speakers expressed concern about the preservation of Oro language and cultural heritage.
Joshua observed that migration, urbanisation and technological change have created new challenges for indigenous languages and traditional values.
He advocated the digitisation of Oro cultural resources, including folklore, proverbs and oral traditions, as a means of preserving the community’s identity for future generations.
Community leaders further encouraged the establishment of language programmes and cultural initiatives aimed at strengthening the connection between younger generations and their ancestral heritage.
Youth Empowerment and Community Responsibility
The event also placed significant emphasis on youth participation in community development.
Joshua challenged young Oro people to take ownership of the future by becoming active contributors to social, economic and political progress.
According to him, sustainable development requires collaboration between older generations and emerging leaders, particularly in areas such as entrepreneurship, innovation and civic engagement.
Participants agreed that investing in young people would remain essential to ensuring long-term prosperity and leadership continuity within the Oro nation.
Renewed Call for University of Oron
Delivering the keynote address, Abang Mkpandiok revisited the historical foundations of the Oron Union and highlighted the sacrifices made by its early leaders to support education.
He recalled how members contributed substantial portions of their earnings to fund scholarships for Oro students, including overseas educational opportunities as far back as the 1940s.
Mkpandiok argued that the establishment of a University of Oron would represent a continuation of that legacy and serve as a catalyst for economic growth, research, innovation and human capital development.
According to him, such an institution would provide educational opportunities for future generations while helping to position Oro communities as centres of knowledge and development.
Concerns Over Developmental Marginalisation
The keynote speaker also expressed concerns about what he described as longstanding developmental challenges facing Oro communities.
He pointed to issues surrounding major projects such as the proposed Ibaka Deep Seaport, the University of Maritime Studies, Oron, and aspects of regional infrastructure planning.
According to him, these concerns underscore the need for stronger advocacy and strategic engagement to ensure that Oro communities benefit equitably from development initiatives.
He maintained that education remains one of the most effective tools for overcoming structural challenges and securing greater opportunities for future generations.
A Future Anchored on Knowledge
As the Oron Union enters its second century, participants agreed that education must remain at the centre of community development efforts.
The consensus at the gathering was that investment in schools, scholarships, skills development and higher education institutions offers the most sustainable path toward economic advancement, cultural preservation and social progress.
For many attendees, the call for a University of Oron represents more than an educational aspiration—it reflects a broader vision for empowering future generations and strengthening the long-term relevance of the Oro nation within Nigeria’s evolving development landscape.
