Campus News

Again, UNILORIN shines at JAMB’s Mega Awards

By Latifat Raji

The University of Ilorin has again made headlines for academic excellence and institutional achievement as it emerged the first runner-up in the 2025 National Mega Award contest organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

            The award ceremony, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, last Tuesday (July 8, 2025, recognised outstanding universities across the country based on key performance indicators.

            UNILORIN, which earned a total of nine points across all five core assessment categories of the Award, got a princely sum of N75, 000, 000 for coming second in the competition.  Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, took the first position with 14 points with a cash prize of ₦500,000,000, while the Nile University, Abuja, came third with six points with a cash prize of ₦25,000,000. It would be recalled that the University of Ilorin won the mega prize of the first position last year.

            The award was received on behalf of the University by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, a renowned academic and administrator, whose leadership has been pivotal in sustaining the institution’s enviable reputation.

            Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, lauded the University of Ilorin for its continued relevance and appeal in the Nigerian education sector. He said, “The University of Ilorin must be doing something very right to have over 49,000 students applying to study there. It is no surprise they remain one of the most sought-after institutions in Nigeria.”

            While presenting the awards, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, acknowledged the fierce competition among Nigerian universities and praised the University of Ilorin for its unwavering commitment to quality education. “The University of Ilorin has maintained a tradition of excellence over the years”, she said, adding that “even though they did not come first this time, their track record speaks volumes. I encourage other institutions to learn from their model and rise to the challenge.”

            In his reaction, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Egbewole said that he was “not surprised with the consistent positive ratings of the University by most regulators, as the University is not relenting in its dedication to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, student development, and community impact.”

            Prof. Egbewole, who spoke through the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, explained that the institution remains a leading citadel of learning in the country in every parameter, particularly service delivery.

            The Vice Chancellor appreciated all the staff of the University for their hardwork, dedication, and integrity as he encouraged them to work harder for the University to remain on top at national and international levels.

            The recognition reaffirms the standing of the University of Ilorin as a top-tier university, continuing to lead with distinction and setting an example for others to follow. Despite not clinching the top spot this year, the institution remains a beacon of academic excellence, admired for its integrity, efficiency, and widespread appeal among prospective students.