Egbewole urges AATU to prioritise integrity over certificates
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has admonished the management of Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University (AATU), Ganmo, to place integrity at the centre of its academic and administrative operations, noting that the erosion of core values poses a serious threat to the nation’s educational system and the society at large.
Prof. Egbewole, who made the appeal last Thursday (January 29, 2026) when he received the Vice Chancellor of AATU and his management team who were on a courtesy visit to him in his office, stated that universities must go beyond the pursuit of certificates and ensure that students are properly trained to be worthy in both character and learning.
According to him, the absence of clear and appropriate standards contributes to social vices such as drug abuse, cultism and other forms of misconduct, which have become prevalent among youths.
The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Secretary General of the Association of West Africa Universities (AWAU), explained that while private universities require financial sustainability, prioritising integrity and merit will ultimately attract credibility, value and long-term support. He added that the issue is not the number of first-class graduates produced but how well such degrees are genuinely earned.
Prof. Egbewole assured the new University of the continued support of the University of Ilorin, describing the relationship as a mutually beneficial partnership. He explained that staff involved in the collaboration gain valuable exposure to the operations of private universities, while also sharing experiences from the public university system, including established processes, protocols and procedures.
He further expressed confidence in the leadership of the institution, noting that Mr Emmanuel Dada Obafemi’s background and deep understanding of Registry operations would contribute significantly to laying a solid foundation for the growth and stability of Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University.
Speaking earlier, the Ag. Vice Chancellor of AATU, Ganmo, Prof. Abdulrauf Ambali, said the institution is seeking strong mentorship in order to position itself among the best universities, not only in Kwara State but across Africa.
He described the University of Ilorin as a pacesetter and leader among universities in Kwara State in all ramifications, noting that its track record in academic excellence, administration and institutional stability makes it a worthy mentor. Prof. Ambali affirmed that Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University is ready to comply with all guidelines, standards and instructions laid down by the management of the University of Ilorin, following its designation as the mentoring institution by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The Vice Chancellor expressed appreciation to the management of the University of Ilorin for releasing highly experienced and top-ranking staff from the Registry, Library and academic departments to support the take-off of the new university, adding that the deployment of these personnel has provided the institution with a solid foundation, strengthened its operational framework and enhanced its capacity to commence academic activities on a strong and credible footing.
