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65 outstanding individuals and former students of the University of Ilorin who have demonstrated exceptional skills in their respective fields and contributed to the development of the institution were honoured in a grand Investiture and Award of Excellence Ceremony today, July 16 2025 as part of activities marking its 50th Anniversary.
The honorees included 50 ambassadors, 10 distinguished alumni, and two recipients of the Award of Excellence.
In an address titled “One Good Turn Deserves Another,” the Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole, explained that the remarkable individuals have demonstrated a deep commitment to giving back to their alma mater by donating utility vehicles, equipment, solar systems, and scholarships to support the university’s growth.
Egbewole presenting award to Otitoju
He said their selfless acts reflect a strong belief in the institution’s vision and a personal commitment to advancing its mission.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the occasion serves as an opportunity to foster collaboration and dialogue among the awardees, creating a platform for them to work together and serve as mentors to its students.
He disclosed that one of the outstanding honorees, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, a 1984 medical graduate, was celebrated for donating over ₦200 million in support of staff development and research, providing a security vehicle and contributing to the acquisition of a digital anatomy machine.
Another awardee, recognized for his generosity to the University, is Dr. Murthada Adeniji, an alumnus of the University of Ife, who was appreciated for donating a 90KVA solar power system and a Hilux vehicle to the University of Ilorin.
“What is remarkable about these two individuals is that they gave generously without being asked,” the Vice Chancellor noted.
“Their commitment is proof that the Unilorin dream is shared even beyond our alumni circle,” Egbewole stated.
He disclosed that the University is working on several legacy projects, including a Techno and Industrial Park and a Centre for Stem Cell Research and urged the alumni and friends of the institution to support these initiatives.
Prof. Egbewole emphasized the need to foster a network of alumni who will serve as mentors to students, contribute to university development, and uphold the “Better by Far” mantra of the institution.
In his keynote address, legal luminary and philanthropist, Prof. Yusuf Ali, SAN emphasized the importance of giving back to society, stating that the act can take many forms, such as good neighborliness, empathy, and promoting goodness in the community.
“The two major religions represented in our society: Islam and Christianity place immense value on giving,” he noted.
Among those honoured were: the 8th Vice Chancellor of the University and Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Emeritus Is’haq Oloyede; Dr. Tunji Olowolafe; Dr. Adeyemi Murtadha Adeniji; the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Prof. Temidayo Oladiji; former Managing Director of the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Ltd., Mr. Babatunde Omotowa; prominent Accountant, Dr. AWA Ibrahim; former CBN Deputy Governor, Dr. Sarah Omotunde Alade; the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Services, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap; and the Managing Director of Thisday Newspapers, Mr. Eniola Bello.
Also honoured were: the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah; the Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Lokoja, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi; Prof. David Durosomo; and Justice Asmau Tanwa Akanbi; public affairs analyst and commentator, Bajide Otitoju, among others.
Activities slated for the golden jubilee celebration coming up in November 23 to 28, 2025 include a thanksgiving service, an anniversary walk and play, press engagements, alumni colloquium, and a grand ceremony with Prof. PLO Lumumba as the keynote speaker.
Other events include a legacy projects unveiling, including a 3-D Transcript Hub and Innovation Hubs, as the university targets a ₦1 billion Endowment Fund to sustain future growth.
By Sola Rotimi
