Egbewole reaffirms students’ participation in varsity governance
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has reaffirmed the commitment of the institution to inclusive governance, assuring students that their views remain a critical part of decision-making at the University.
Prof. Egbewole made the remarks last Monday (February 2, 2026), when he received the newly elected Executive Committee members of the Ilorin University Medical Students Association (ILUMSA) who visited him in his office.
The Vice Chancellor said, “As far as we are concerned, our students are very important stakeholders in the administration of our University. We are open to accommodate your views and will consult you on virtually all decisions we take. Be assured that your voice counts in whatever we are doing”.
While congratulating the new ILUMSA officials on their election and wishing them a successful tenure, Prof. Egbewole stated that the students of the College of Health Sciences hold a unique and strategic position in the University.
He noted that the College has a Sub-Dean dedicated to student affairs and also produces a Vice President in the Students’ Union Executive Committee despite having a relatively smaller student population compared to some other Faculties.
Contrasting this with Faculties that have larger student populations but lack similar representation structures, the Vice Chancellor urged the medical students to appreciate their privileged position as he called on the ILUMSA exco members to live up to the high expectations placed upon them.
Speaking earlier, the Ag. Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Akanmu, appreciated the Vice Chancellor for approving the visit on a short notice, describing the gesture as a reflection of the administration’s open-door policy.
Dr Akanmu also commended the peaceful conduct of the ILUMSA elections, noting that it demonstrated the maturity, discipline, and sense of responsibility of the members of the Association.
Also in his remarks, the ILUMSA President, Mr Saka Okikiola, recalled witnessing the Vice Chancellor commissioning the ILUMSA secretariat when he was in 300-level and expressed appreciation that Prof. Egbewole received the new executives personally on a short notice
He described the gesture as a testament to his student-friendly and approachable leadership style.
Mr Okikiola lauded the Administration’s interventions in the College of Health Sciences, citing the construction of new buildings, expansion of lecture halls in both old and new college campuses, the dentistry building under development, and the establishment of an animal house as major achievements improving academic and infrastructural facilities for students.
While also using the occasion to present key demands and recommendations to the administration, the ILUMSA President pledged that members of the new Executive Council would build on the legacy of past leaders while collaborating closely with the University management to ensure that students’ voices remain heard.
