Excitement is reaching fever pitch across Ebonyi State as the Ebonyi State University, EBSU community in Abakaliki, as the institution gets set to welcome one of its most accomplished alumnus, Dr. Chima Desmond Anyaso, a distinguished entrepreneur, politician, youth advocate, and philanthropist to deliver the keynote address at the maiden edition of the University Alumni Lecture Series on July 10, 2025.
Scheduled for July 10, 2025, the landmark event will see the Igbere, Bende local Government – born renowned entrepreneur, astute politician, youth advocate, and philanthropist address the university community on the theme: “From Classroom to Boardroom: The Power of Education in Shaping Destiny”.
The Vice-Chancellor of EBSU, Professor Michael Ugota Awoke, had earlier announced Dr. Anyaso’s selection as the keynote speaker for this historic event, which aims to celebrate and showcase the remarkable achievements of the university’s alumni members who have excelled in their professions and made significant contributions to society.
The Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series is an initiative of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, under the leadership of Professor Nkechi Emma-Echiegu, with the support of Professor Philip Omoke and Dr. Chike Onwe. The lecture will be held at the Faculty of Social Sciences Lecture Theatre.
Dr. Anyaso, who Chief Executive Officer of Caades Group, a thriving multi-sector conglomerate, was part of EBSU’s pioneer set in 1999 and graduated in 2003 from the Department of English and Literature, is expected to share insights from his journey in the lecture.
Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Anyaso expressed his deep gratitude to his alma mater for the honour, stating, “I am filled with humility and gratitude as I share this good news. Being invited to deliver the first-ever Distinguished Alumni Lecture in the history of Ebonyi State University is a full circle moment for me. I look forward to returning to the grounds that shaped me to inspire the next generation.”
He extended a personal invitation to friends, family, associates, and former classmates, urging them to join him for what he described as a “historic moment.”
As preparations are in top gear to ensure the event becomes a memorable milestone for the university.
Faculty members, led by Professor Awoke, pioneer and subsequent alumni sets, and the entire student body, mobilised through the Students’ Union Government, are expected to grace the occasion. Cultural displays, social activities, and a post-lecture dinner have been lined up to add colour to the day.
Students have described Dr. Anyaso as a source of immense pride to the institution. Many say they look forward to learning from his wealth of entrepreneurial experience and community leadership.
The Bende Patriotic Forum (BPF) has also joined in celebrating Dr. Anyaso’s recognition. In a congratulatory message signed by its Convener, Engr. Anyanwu Ikechi Orji, and General Secretary, Lady Joyce Idika, mni, the Forum described his nomination as “highly commendable but not surprising.”
“Dr. Anyaso has consistently demonstrated excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to community development,” the statement read. “His inspiring journey from the classrooms of EBSU to the boardrooms of major industries embodies the theme of this lecture.”
Dr. Anyaso’s Caades Group boasts investments across diverse sectors including real estate, oil and gas, healthcare, and hospitality. Notable subsidiaries include Chimbaland Properties and Investment Ltd, Ceecon Oil and Gas Ltd, Oil Rigs Global Resources Ltd, Le Paris Continental Hotel, St. Edwards Specialist Hospital and Cardiac Centre, and Mactom and Reid Consortium.
Beyond the corporate world, he is widely celebrated for his philanthropic work through the Ahuoma Anyaso Education Foundation and the Chima Anyaso Foundation.
These initiatives have provided scholarships, mentorship, and startup support for hundreds of young Nigerians, especially across Bende’s 13 communities.
His selfless service has earned him numerous accolades, including the African Achievers Award for Community Development, Youth Icon of the Year (2017), Vanguard Personality of the Year (2024), and recognition among Nigeria’s Top 20 Business Professionals by Vanguard and Champion Newspapers.
“As a forum committed to Bende’s progress, we are proud of Dr. Anyaso’s achievements,” the BPF statement continued. “His keynote address will no doubt inspire the next generation to harness the transformative power of education, hard work, and vision.”
For Ebonyi State University and its growing alumni network, July 10 promises to be a day to remember a celebration of achievement, a reunion of generations, and a powerful reminder of how education can shape destinies and build communities.
