UNILORIN 50th anniversary, a fantastic outing-VC
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has described the institution’s 50th anniversary celebration as a remarkable success, commending the efforts of the anniversary committee for delivering what he called a “fantastic outing” that has been widely applauded within and beyond the academic community.
Prof. Egbewole gave this commendation last Monday(March 23, 2026) while receiving members of the University of Ilorin 50th Anniversary Committee, led by its Chairman, Prof. Olugbenga Mokuolu, who formally presented the comprehensive report on the activities and outcomes of the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Speaking during the meeting held at the Vice Chancellor’s Committee Room, Prof. Egbewole appreciated the Committee for its firm dedication, meticulous planning, and collaborative spirit, which collectively produced a series of impactful programmes that reflected the rich history, achievements, and aspirations of the University.
While acknowledging the largely successful programme, the Vice Chancellor observed that the insights gained from the anniversary planning and execution would serve as valuable reference points for future celebrations.
Prof. Egbewole also highlighted the immense goodwill enjoyed by the University of Ilorin, describing it as a strength that is often underestimated until moments such as the anniversary when it becomes visibly evident through the outpouring of support, commendations, and participation from alumni, partners, and well-wishers.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Mokuolu, commended the University Council under the leadership of Surveyor Abiodun Aluko; the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN; as well as other Principal Officers of the University for the confidence reposed in the Committee to oversee and deliver the landmark celebration.
According to him, the trust placed in the Committee served as a strong motivation to ensure excellence in the planning and execution of all activities.
Prof. Mokuolu also extended gratitude to the Provost, Deans, Directors, and the entire University community, including staff and students, for their solid support and active participation, noting that the success recorded was largely due to the collective commitment of stakeholders across all strata of the institution, whose contributions ensured that every segment of the University was adequately represented.
Reflecting on the activities that marked the anniversary, the Chairman explained that each event was carefully conceptualised and meticulously executed, resulting in impressive participation and widespread commendation.
He added that beyond celebrating the University’s past achievements, the anniversary programmes were deliberately structured to project a clear vision for the institution’s future growth and global relevance.
He acknowledged the contributions of alumni, former staff, and friends of the University, describing their involvement as critical to the success of the celebration.
According to him, the golden jubilee was not only a University affair but a milestone for all who have contributed to its development over the years.
He, however, advocated for the establishment and possible expansion of a Project Implementation Committee to drive key legacy projects identified during the anniversary celebrations. He commended the foresight of the University Administration in constituting a multidisciplinary team that handled the technical planning and design of the proposed Innovation and Transcript Hubs, noting that the outcome already reflects world-class standards.
Prof. Mokuolu stated that inclusiveness was a central principle in the design and execution of the 50th anniversary celebrations, stressing that deliberate efforts were made to ensure that all segments of the University community were carried along. He said this inclusivity was evident in the high level of participation recorded throughout the six-day, activity-packed celebration, which featured multiple events daily.
The Chairman further revealed that the early constitution of the Committee, about 16 months ahead of the celebration, was instrumental to the success achieved. This, he explained, provided ample time to strategise, address logistical challenges, and secure credible resource persons, including the renowned scholar and keynote speaker, Prof. PLO Lumumba, whose participation added significant intellectual value to the anniversary colloquium.
