By Amos Aar
AN ALUMNUS of the Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), (formerly Benue State University), Mr Benedict Ushahemba Ater, has emerged as the overall best graduate from the seven campuses of the Nigerian Law School across the country.
Ater distinguished himself at the recent call-to-bar ceremony held at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja, clinching 18 prestigious awards. Among the prizes were the Council of Legal Education Star Prize, Overall Best Student Award, Most Promising Student of the Year, and Best Student in Professional Ethics and Skills.
Speaking at the event, Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, told the new barristers that their greatest asset remained their reputation. He urged them to uphold integrity and professionalism in their practice.
Also addressing the new lawyers, Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Justice Olukayode Olaiwola, charged them to be professional, respectful, cautious, and fair in their dealings, stressing the importance of treating others with dignity and consideration.
Reacting to Ater’s feat, Benue State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Dr Timothy Yangien, said the achievement did not come as a surprise. He recalled that Ater, who was once his student, consistently excelled in his academic pursuits.
According to him, “This achievement has made both Benue State and Nigeria proud. I urge young people to emulate his resilience and commitment”, Yangien said.
In a related development, St. Andrew Secondary School, Adikpo (SASSA), emerged overall winner of the 10th edition of the National Quiz Competition on Legislature and Democracy at the state level.
The competition, held on Thursday at Government Girls College, Makurdi, was organized by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies of the National Assembly. SASSA floored five other schools to clinch the top position and will now represent Benue State at the national finals in Lokoja, Kogi State, in October.
In her address, Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, said the aim of the contest was to broaden students’ understanding of Nigeria’s political history, stimulate interest in governance, and encourage active participation in democratic processes.
Represented by the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Titus Aniho, she noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s vision for reforms in basic and secondary education in the state.
Director-General of the Institute, Prof. Olaraju Suleiman, represented by Iorwuese Dondo, added that the competition would boost civic education in schools and deepen students’ understanding of democratic governance.
