UNILORIN staff unions mourn Ambali
By Mubarak Oladosu
Staff Unions at the University of Ilorin have commended the exemplary leadership qualities of the late 9th Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali , OON.
`The commendations were made last Monday ( June 15, 2026) by the leaders of the four trade unions operating at the University while speaking at a Special Senate session held in honour of the late former Vice Chancellor at the University Auditorium.
Speaking on behalf of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Chairman, Mr Naheem Olushola Falowo, remembered the late Prof. Ambali as a visionary leader, an accomplished scholar and a humble administrator who maintained cordial relationship with staff unions and contributed to the growth, stability and reputation of the University. He added that the departed Vice Chancellor was committed to institutional growth through improvement of infrastructural projects, promoting peace and inclusiveness and by always lending a listening ear to all
Mr Falowo noted that the legacy of the former Vice Chancellor, particularly the erection of streetlight from the main gate to the University Roundabout will continue to inspire University administrators, staff and students. He also prayed Allah to rest the soul of the late former Vice Chancellor in Aljanat Fridaous.
In his own tribute, the Chairman of the University of Ilorin Branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Dr. Alex Akanmu, who was represented by his deputy, Prof. Jamiu Odusote, asserted that history would be kind to the late Prof. Ambali whom he described as a good and a great man who exemplified humility, courage and consistency.
The Chairman of the National Association of Academic Technologists, UNILORIN Branch, Dr Paul Olúwafemi Awolola, described Prof. Ambali as a man of wisdom, integrity and foresight who was accessible to all regardless of their status. He added that his legacy of service, humility and excellence would remain indelible in the annals of the University.
Dr Awolola further noted that the late former Vice Chancellor was a man of remarkable character who treated people with respect and dignity.
On his part, the Chairman of the Non-Academic Staff Union, UNILORIN Branch, Mr Suberu Ibrahim, urged members of the audience to emulate the humility of the late Prof. Ambali, who never regarded himself as being too big to interact with workers.
He also recalled that staff of the University were well taken care of with special welfare packages, particularly at the end of every year.
