Bashirat Omotosho
The Dean of Student Affairs, University of Ilorin, Dr Alex Morenikeji Akanmu, has encouraged students to go all out to change the narrative about leadership, saying that true leadership is not just about holding titles but about possessing the right qualities needed to inspire positive changes.
Dr Akanmu made this call last Monday (July 14, 2025) at a Leadership Summit, themed “Vision 2030″, which was organised by the Basic Medical Sciences Students Association (BAMSSA), University of Ilorin.
The Dean, who is also the Chairman of the University of Ilorin Branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), emphasised information, soft skills, and integrity as non-negotiable attributes every aspiring leader must cultivate.
“You cannot change the world by standing still,” he told the students. adding, “You must be informed, be disciplined, and stand for something greater than yourself.”
Dr Akanmu urged participants to take responsibility for their growth, be proactive, and think beyond short-term achievements.
The second keynote speaker, Mrs Modupe Tosin Ajadi, enlightened her audience on the importance of savings culture among students. She highlighted the long-term benefits of financial discipline and encouraged students to begin early, no matter how little.
“Financial literacy is leadership,” she remarked, underscoring how managing money wisely empowers individuals to lead responsibly.
Mr Fii Stephen of the AI Literacy Academy spoke about the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in digital leadership. He introduced participants to basic AI tools, trends, and opportunities, emphasising that the future belongs to those who embrace technology and develop the digital mindset necessary to thrive in the fast-changing world.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Head of the Department of Anatomy, Prof. Ade Stephen Alabi, commended the students for their forward-thinking initiative. He emphasised the importance of building a leadership mindset early, especially in the medical sciences, where discipline and responsibility are foundational. “You are not just scientists in training; you are nation-builders in the making,” he said.
In her opening speech, the President of the Basic Medical Sciences Students Association, Miss Adekaiyeja Holiness Olajumoke, highlighted the vision behind the Summit as a platform to awaken purpose and leadership drive among students. She said, “Vision 2030 is not just a concept, it is our commitment to personal growth, innovation, and impact. As future leaders in health and science, we must lead with clarity, conviction, and compassion.”
The major highlight of the Summit was the panel session, where experts and student leaders engaged in a dynamic discussion on “Building Leaders for a Sustainable Future.”
The interactive session explored leadership from academic, professional, and ethical perspectives, providing attendees with practical strategies to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
Present at the event were the outgoing Student Union President, University of Ilorin, Mr Victor Agezeh, students from Federal University of Technology, Akure; Kwara State University, Malete and Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, among others.
