OAU honours Egbewole
By Isaac Lewu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has been conferred with the Distinguished Award of Excellence by his alma mater, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The award, which was received on his behalf by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services) of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Olalere Adeyemi, last Monday (June 8, 2026) at Oduduwa Hall of the University, was part of the activities marking the 65th anniversary of the first generation University. It was conferred in recognition of Prof. Egbewole’s outstanding contributions to the academia, leadership, national development and service to humanity.
The award recognises Prof. Egbewole’s remarkable achievements in higher education administration, scholarship, legal practice, mentorship, and his unwavering commitment to advancing the cause of education in Nigeria and beyond.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described Prof. Egbewole as an exemplary alumnus whose accomplishments have brought immense pride and honour to the institution.
The OAU Vice Chancellor noted that Prof. Egbewole has distinguished himself through decades of dedicated services in teaching, research, community engagement, and leadership, adding that his contributions have continued to impact positively on the academic landscape of the country.
According to Prof. Bamire, the award was reserved for notable alumni whose professional attainments and contributions to society have significantly enhanced the reputation and global visibility of the University.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Prof. Egbewole expressed profound gratitude to his alma mater for the recognition, describing the honour as both humbling and inspiring.
The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), said that Obafemi Awolowo University played a pivotal role in shaping his academic and professional journey, noting that the values, knowledge, and experiences he acquired at the institution have continued to guide him throughout his career.
Prof. Egbewole, who thanked the University of Ilorin for contributing significantly to making him who he has become, dedicated the award to members of the University community, including staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders whose support and commitment have contributed immensely to the successes recorded by the institution. He also reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining excellence, innovation, and transformational leadership at the University of Ilorin, stressing that the honour would further motivate him to contribute more meaningfully to the advancement of education and national development.
The Vice Chancellor, who is the convener and Chairman of the Consortium of Kwara Universities (KU8+), also commended the management of Obafemi Awolowo University for sustaining the vision of its founding fathers and maintaining its position as one of Africa’s leading centres of learning and research.
Also honoured at the event were the Kuliya of Ilorin, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN; the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa; the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale; the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Mr Sonny T. Echono; the Osun State Commissioner for Budget, Prof. Morufu Adeleke, among others.
