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| Photo shows l-r: Deji Lana, Titilayo Oyinsan, Prof. Enase Okonedo, Dr. Onyebuchi Odianjo, Mr. George Onafowokan, Dr. Peter Bamkole and Mrs. Olajumoke Ajayi |
The Pan-Atlantic University Alumni Association (PAUAA) has hosted its inaugural Alumni International Conference, themed “The Advantage: Connecting People, Ideas and Opportunities.” The event convened alumni, business leaders, students, and key stakeholders for a day of inspiration, practical insights, and a renewed commitment to building stronger institutions and driving national transformation.
The conference opened with powerful remarks that framed the day’s central message: alumni networks must move beyond reunions and become engines of collaboration, enterprise, and social impact.
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| Dr. Onyebuchi Odianjo |
Dr. Onyebuchi Odianjo, President of PAUAA, urged attendees to give back to the institution that helped shape their careers and to activate the alumni community as a platform for creating real value.
Professor Enase Okonedo, Vice-Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, described the gathering as historic and a vital platform for meaningful interaction. She noted that the university’s alumni, spread across industries and professions, could make a far greater contribution to society by sharing experiences, building partnerships, and converting conversations into practical collaborations.
The event reinforced PAUAA’s vision of a connected, active alumni community that offers professional support, strengthens industry relationships, and creates opportunities for students and graduates. It also highlighted the importance of stronger university–industry partnerships in promoting innovation, enterprise development, and sustainable economic growth.
With its focus on connecting people, ideas, and opportunities, the conference sent a clear call to action: today is an opportunity to activate the PAU community, build lasting partnerships, and create value for individuals, businesses, and the nation.
“At Pan-Atlantic University, we believe that we can transform our nation with our actions. Our focus is the transformation of our society. We are the ambassadors; we stand out through our work ethic and values. Let’s mirror the change we want to see and carry out our ambassadorship diligently,” she said.
Keynote speaker Mr. George Onafowokan, MD/CEO of Coleman Wires and Cables, challenged participants to invest time in building and sharing their wealth of experience with others. He stressed that there is no quick path to success.
“Patience, hard work, and integrity get you there. Vision, focus, discipline, integrity, and good character matter in one’s formation. Leadership should be by example. Build a status that makes you a go-to person.”
Special Guest of Honour Mrs. Olajumoke Cecilia Ajayi offered practical guidance on family and personal development. She advised parents to counsel their children while allowing them the freedom to express themselves, emphasising that competence must be paired with confidence. She also urged young people to discuss their ambitions openly with their partners before entering marriage.
Panel One, Built to Scale, featured Dr. Peter Bamkole, Engr. Mrs. Elozino Olaniyan, Deji Lana, Titilayo Oyinsan, and Temi Salami. The panel delivered practical and actionable insights, encouraging participants not to wait until they finish school before taking action and stressing the need to start now. One of the key frameworks shared was the PSPP principle - People, Systems, Process, and Patience.
Other contributions emphasised the importance of avoiding idleness, having a clear vision and working steadily toward it, making oneself available to meet people’s needs, finding spaces where one can add value, and remaining productive and engaged.
This was followed by Panel Two, Beyond the Classroom: Alumni Who Redefined Success. The session featured Rosemary Egabor-Afolahan, Dr. Goodluck Lakinbofa, Mojibade Sosanya, Daniel Nnwoka (popularly known as Dan D’ Humourous), and Salem King. They shared personal stories of resilience, creativity, and purposeful risk-taking, illustrating how alumni can redefine success by leveraging their unique talents, staying true to their vision, and continuously creating value beyond the classroom.
The conference concluded with closing remarks by PAUAA Vice President Mr Opeyemi Oluleye, who thanked all attendees and the sponsors whose support made the conference possible. Networking followed, allowing alumni to make further connections.
The Pan-Atlantic University Alumni Association (PAUAA) is committed to fostering a sense of belonging and pride among graduates. The Association connects alumni to promote lifelong relationships, professional growth, mutual support, and meaningful contributions to Pan-Atlantic University and the wider society.
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