VC pledges support for Red Cross
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has reaffirmed the commitment of his Administration to supporting the legacy project of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, University of Ilorin Detachment.
Prof. Egbewole gave the assurance last Thursday (April 30, 2026) at the Vice Chancellor’s Committee Room while receiving members of the UNILORIN Red Cross Detachment who paid him a courtesy visit in his capacity as the Grand Patron of the Detachment.
Congratulating the Detachment on its 35th anniversary, the Vice Chancellor described the milestone as a significant achievement, noting that sustaining such a humanitarian initiative over three and a half decades requires dedication, resilience, and strong institutional values.
Prof. Egbewole also appreciated the group’s consistent efforts in promoting health, safety, and emergency response services within the campus, adding that the University recognises the vital role of the Red Cross as a critical stakeholder in the University system.
The Vice chancellor assured the delegation of continued collaboration, noting that the University Administration remains open to partnerships that enhance student welfare and institutional development.
Addressing their requests, the Vice Chancellor pledged that the University would give due consideration to the proposed legacy project and provide necessary support within its capacity to ensure the success of the initiative.
Speaking earlier, the Commandant of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, University of Ilorin Detachment, Mr Adebisi Tobiloba, appreciated the Vice Chancellor for his continued support to the group and for accepting to serve as its Grand Patron.
Mr Tobiloba also congratulated the Vice Chancellor and the University management on the 50th anniversary of the institution, describing it as a landmark achievement and commending the Administration for sustaining peace and academic excellence.
The Commandant disclosed that the group, which has provided uninterrupted, free emergency medical coverage for students over the years, would mark its 35th anniversary this month.
He explained that members of the Detachment are always available during major University events, including matriculation, convocation ceremonies, computer-based examinations, and other large gatherings to help manage medical situations and reduce pressure on institutional resources.
Mr Tobiloba added that the operations of the Detachment have continued to expand, particularly with the establishment of a new unit at the College of Health Sciences. According to him, a space has been identified at the University Stadium Pavilion to serve as a central operations hub, but approval is required to occupy the facility and carry out necessary structural improvements.
The Commandant further explained that, as part of efforts to align with global best practices, the Detachment is transitioning to more advanced, data-driven emergency response systems. He noted that a key legacy project for the 35th anniversary is the acquisition of a digital-feedback CPR manikin and advanced trauma kits, and appealed for institutional support to fund the procurement of the equipment.
While highlighting activities lined up for the anniversary, Mr Tobiloba drew attention to a planned Mega Blood Drive, organised in partnership with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital Hematology Department. He added that more than 70 students had already indicated interest in donating blood, describing the initiative as part of the broader life-saving impact of the Detachment within the University community.
