Encomiums as CIS honours ex-Dean, Aina
By Bashirat Omotosho
The Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS) came alive last Tuesday (March 31, 2026) as staff and guests gathered to honour one of its former Deans, Prof. Lenrie Olatokunbo Aina, in recognition of his immense contributions to the growth and development of the Faculty.
The event, held at the Faculty Board Room, was convened by the Dean of the Faculty, Prof Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi. It brought together academic staff, administrators, and invited scholars who praised Prof. Aina’s impactful tenure.
In her remarks, Prof. Abdulbaqi said that the event was organised to celebrate a man whose leadership and vision continue to shape the Faculty’s direction.
She described Prof. Aina as “a builder of systems and a mentor of minds,” emphasising that many of the structures, academic standards, and innovations introduced during his tenure remain foundational to the Faculty’s progress today. “We are not starting from the scratch, We are building on legacies thoughtfully laid by Prof. Aina.” she added.
Delivering a goodwill message, the immediate past University Librarian and Chairman of the UNILORIN Courseware Committee, Prof. Abdulwahab Olarenwaju Issa, commended Prof. Aina’s forward-thinking approach, particularly in advancing digital learning initiatives.
He recalled how the former Dean championed the integration of technology into teaching and learning long before it became widely adopted. He added that Prof. Aina was the one who introduced courseware to the University.
He noted that the way Prof. Aina was addressed and shown respect despite leaving the services of the University more than 10 years ago speaks volume on the type of person that he is. He prayed that the former Dean continues to live in good health and wealth.
Also speaking, Prof. Joel Babalola of the University of Ibadan, described Prof. Aina as a respected scholar and administrator whose influence extends beyond the institution. He noted that his contributions to the academia have earned him admiration across universities, adding that “his legacy is not confined to the Faculty but resonates nationally.”
The Director of COMSIT, Prof. Rasheed Gbenga Jimoh also acknowledged Prof. Aina’s support for technological infrastructure and innovation within the Faculty.
Prof. Jimoh, who is also a former Dean of the Faculty, emphasised that Prof. Aina’s leadership style reflects a deep, personal investment in the success of others.
He observed that beyond Prof. Aina’s scholarly contributions, he has consistently created pathways for younger academics to develop and excel.
The Head of the Department of Library and Information Sciences, Prof. Musediq Tunji Bashorun, praised the honouree’s dedication to academic excellence and staff development.
He noted that Prof. Aina’s legacy is evident in the number of professionals he has mentored over the years.
In his remarks, Prof. Amos Bajeh portrayed Prof. Aina as a central figure in the Faculty’s development; one whose fatherly guidance has helped shape careers and strengthen institutional values. He noted that the goodwill messages so far underscored Prof. Aina’s humility and selfless service, describing him as a leader who leads quietly but effectively.
In his response, Prof. Aina expressed deep appreciation for the honour, describing the recognition as both humbling and inspiring. He reflected on his time as Dean with gratitude, noting that whatever achievements were recorded during his tenure were the result of collective effort.
