The Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Prof. Mrs. Lilian Salami, has assured support for Governor Godwin Obaseki's urban beautification project, which is part of the Edo State Government's ongoing urban renewal project in the Benin metropolis.

Prof. Salami gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by members of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Institute of Landscape Horticulturists, at the main campus of the University in Ugbowo, Benin City.

She said, “We have discussed with the governor and he has shared insights on how he wants to make the University of Benin a showpiece in Nigeria so that you can have a proper beautification project.

“We will use the university as the showpiece to show the benefits of beautification and how flowers and trees can achieve that."

The vice chancellor assured members of the Nigeria Institute of Landscape Horticulturists that, “We can help with your annual convention or meetings. We’ll be more than glad to do that. Rest assured that whatever you want, our door is open.”

Secretary of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Institute of Landscape Horticulturists, Mr. Akintoye Temitope said the Institute has the support of the Edo State Government, noting, “We practice here in Edo State and we’re very conversant with the development in environmental renewal.

“It goes with our claim that if there is any singular contributor to environmental renewal in this state, that person must be the vice chancellor of the University of Benin. The position of the university is so strategic because as you come to the city, you will start to see the tile structure on your left and you’ll know that you’re already in Benin.

“It is also a notable development when you start to look at the park and garden of Edo State on the internet, one thing that continuously pops up is the University of Benin hatchet.”