We ‘ll continue to celebrate you, Egbewole tells UNILORIN retirees

By Isaac Lewu

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has commended retired members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), at the University for their dedication and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the institution, assuring them that their legacy would continue to inspire future generations of staff.

Prof. Egbewole, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye, stated this last Wednesday, (July 1, 2026) while speaking at the SSANU Retirees’ Recognition and Memorial Ceremony at the University Auditorium.

The renowned legal luminary described the occasion as a celebration of lives devoted to service, excellence and the advancement of the University, noting that the commitment, diligence and sacrifices of the honourees had helped to build the strong administrative and academic support system for which the University is renowned.

The Vice Chancellor stated that retirement marks not the end of service but the beginning of another meaningful phase during which the retirees’ wealth of experience and wisdom would continue to benefit the University and society.

He also said that genuine dedication to service cannot always be measured by material rewards, stressing that the enduring impact of selfless service is reflected in the lasting institutions and values built over time.

Prof. Egbewole likened the retirees’ contributions to seeds sown for future generations to harvest, noting that many devoted decades of their lives to nurturing the University without expecting immediate personal gains. He thanked the retirees for their remarkable investment in humanity and the institution, praying that God grants them good health, peace, fulfilment and many more years to enjoy the fruits of their labour.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), University of Ilorin Branch, Mr Naheem Olushola Falowo, described the ceremony as a fitting recognition of members who devoted years of dedicated services to the University.

He noted that although the event had not been held since 2021 due to financial challenges arising from the stoppage of the monthly union check-off deductions under the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), the Association was delighted to revive the programme in honour of its retirees.

Mr Falowo urged the retirees to accord priority to their health and make wise investment decisions in retirement. He advised them to venture only into businesses where they possess adequate knowledge and experience. He also appealed to the University Management to institutionalise the retirement celebration, stressing that retiring staff deserve to be honoured by the University for their immense contributions to its growth and development.

The SSANU Chairman congratulated all the retirees on attaining the milestone and prayed that they would enjoy good health, peace and fulfilment in retirement.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Association to promoting the welfare of its members while preserving a culture of appreciation and recognition for selfless service.

Also speaking, the National President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Mr Muhammed Haruna Ibrahim, who was represented by the National Financial Secretary, Mr Muhammed Jimoh Akanbi, urged retired members not to distance themselves from the Union, stressing that their continued participation in its activities would strengthen efforts to protect their welfare. He explained that the Union had remained committed to advocating for improved conditions of service and retirees’ benefits through sustained engagement with the Federal Government.

Mr Ibrahim disclosed that the agreement recently concluded with the Federal Government was the outcome of negotiations that began in 2022, expressing optimism that its implementation would commence soon.

While noting that some retirees might not benefit directly from the new agreement, the SSANU National President encouraged them to remain active in the Union. He said that their continued support would reinforce ongoing advocacy for further reviews and policies that could ultimately improve their welfare.

The Director, Health Services, University of Ilorin, Dr Rasheed Odunola, disclosed that the management has approved that retired members of staff can continue to access free consultation services at the University Health Services. He explained that while medications may not be provided free of charge, retirees are welcome to visit the clinic for routine medical consultations, blood pressure checks and other basic health assessments as part of efforts to promote healthy living after retirement.

Dr Odunola also encouraged the retirees to enroll in the informal sector of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), explaining that with a payment of ₦45,000, a retiree can register alongside three members of the household for healthcare coverage. He urged them to embrace healthy lifestyles through regular medical check-ups, balanced nutrition, adequate water intake and moderate exercise, stressing that preventive healthcare remains essential to enjoying a healthy and fulfilling retirement.

Responding on behalf of the retirees, Mr Sunday Fadesere, expressed profound appreciation to the University Management for providing a peaceful and conducive environment that enabled them to serve diligently throughout their years in service.

Mr Fadesere also thanked the Union for organising the ceremony, describing it as a thoughtful gesture that affirmed the University’s appreciation of its retired workforce. He urged serving staff to remain committed, diligent and loyal in the discharge of their duties, expressing confidence that dedication and integrity would always earn lasting recognition.

Also in attendance were the Registrar, Mr Mansur Adeleke Alfanla; the University Bursar, Mr Abiodun Lawal; the Director of Works, Mr Ramoni Amao; and the Director, Physical Planning Unit, Mr Abdulrahman Toyin Jimoh, among others.