Nigerian Field Society Benin
History of Benin Branch
Situated in the capital of Edo State, the cultural hub and heartbeat of Nigeria, our branch has a storied past marked by periods of activity and dormancy occasioned by movement of members to different parts of the world and other cities in Nigeria. In recounting the history of the NFS in Benin City, I extend a warm welcome on behalf of the Benin Branch. Delving into the annals of the Nigerian Field, the Benin Branch first emerged in the 1950s, experiencing a resurgence in the 1970s through the 1980s before fading into dormancy. Unfortunately, no additional sources of information have been unearthed thus far. Esteemed secretaries of the Benin Branch include names such as Mrs. H. Ogbe, R.J. Knowlden, Mrs. Hazel Martin, Mr. B.G. Denham, Mrs. Joan Aiwerioghene, and Mrs. L. Darling. There are also noteworthy figures like Mr. A.A. Sagay, Charles Shokpeka, Dr. R. Mordi, D. Johnson, A.D. Skelding, Justice Ighodaro, and Mr. Cameron Porteous. All these have made significant contributions to the branch, showcasing strong interests in ornithology, providing information on the “curious plants of Bendel State,” and participating actively in its activities. We salute them for their past contributions and activities in the Branch.
Group photograph at the Museums and Monument Benin City during the 2003 NFS ABM in Benin
Over the past years, the Benin Branch has hosted the ABM on three occasions. Most notable the March 2003 ABM which is a testament to the revived spirit of the Benin Branch. The revival occurred on November 15, 2000, with 20 attendees, and we extend our thanks to Prof. D.T. Okpako and Dr. (Mrs.) Pat Oyelola for their encouragement. Dr. S.P.A. Okoro of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife at UNIBEN played a crucial role in fostering moral support and cooperation, urging his colleagues to form the nucleus of the Branch. Dr. (Mrs.) F.M. Ogbe and Prof. J.F. Bamidele (Branch Secretary) from the Department of Botany, UNIBEN, provided the driving force, while the Dean of Agriculture has consistently offered the venue for meetings and even vehicles for ABM gatherings since 2000. We also hosted the ABM in 2011 and 2017.
Dr. I.I. Ero
Chairperson
Group photo after the ABM of the NFS hosted by the Benin Branch at the University of Benin Main Campus on June 4, 2011
