Alada, ex-Pol. Science HOD loses mom
By Abubakar Imam
The death has been announced of Alhaja Asiawu Muhammad Alada, the mother of a former Head of the Department of Political Science, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulrasheed Alada Muhammad. She died penultimate Saturday (March 14, 2026) at the age of 78 after a brief illness.
While the remains of the deceased were buried in accordance to Muslim rites penultimate Sunday (March 15, 2026), the fidau for the further repose of her soul was held last Wednesday (March 18, 2026) at her residence, Alada Compound, Pakata, Ilorin.
Aside Dr Alada, the deceased was also survived by a distinguished alumnus of the University, Dr AbdulRazaq Muhammad Alada, among others.
Scholars like you make UNILORIN great, Egbewole hails Joseph on retirement
By Mustafa Abubakar and Maryam Abdullahi
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has said that the institution “is standing today because of people like Prof. John Kolade Joseph of the Department of Home Economics and Food Science.”
Prof. Egbewole made this assertion last Monday (March 16, 2026) at the retirement and 70th birthday ceremonies held in honour of Prof. Joseph at the University Auditorium Basement, where the renowned scholar was celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the academia, mentorship, and university administration.
The Vice Chancellor’s remarks set the tone for the celebration of the scholar widely regarded as the Father of Home Economics and Food Science, whose career has been defined by integrity, academic excellence, and strong leadership.
In his tribute, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Israel Ogunlade, described Prof. Joseph as a scholar whose influence within the Faculty cannot be forgotten.
Reflecting on their professional relationship that spanned more than three decades at the University, Prof. Ogunlade said, “I will not be able to do it perfectly as you have done, but I will try,” noting that Prof. Joseph guided him in developing independence as a researcher.
He described the honouree as a man who wears two caps, one for academics and the other for ASUU, adding that he has served not only as a teacher but also as a mentor, boss, and father-figure to many within the Faculty. He added that although Prof. Joseph is retiring, the Faculty still looks forward to his continued guidance and contributions.
In his remarks, the pioneer Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo and Summit University, Offa, Prof. Hussein O. Bukoye Oloyede, traced his long association with Prof. Joseph to 1977.
“By 1980, Prof. Joseph supervised my seminar, producing one of the Faculty’s most outstanding theses, titled Food Poisoning and Chemical Hazards,” he said.
Prof. Oloyede added that Prof. Joseph later advanced in his career, venturing into Food Technology at the University of Ibadan in 1992 and becoming an Assistant Lecturer in Animal Production in 1994, while steadily earning national and international recognition.
According to him, the honouree has published extensively and contributed significantly to improving the quality of student research through mentorship.
He also highlighted Prof. Joseph’s contributions to University governance, particularly his roles in the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as Assistant Secretary, Secretary, and Chairman at various times, describing his mentoring style as unique and impactful.
The Head of the Department of Home Economics and Food Science, Dr Aseshola A. Babayeju, commended Prof. Joseph on his outstanding dedication and visionary leadership.
Also speaking, the Ag. Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Akanmu, described Prof. Joseph as one of the “role-minded generals” who championed the rights and welfare of ASUU members.
He noted that the retired Professor served with distinction in leadership positions and emphasised that his contributions to the Faculty of Agriculture and the University at large remain significant.
Dr Akanmu further highlighted Prof. Joseph’s strategic leadership qualities and his strong moral and spiritual influence within the University community.
In his response, Prof. Joseph expressed gratitude, saying that he was “so emotional and happy” to be honoured.
He thanked his colleagues, mentors, and the University community for shaping his academic journey, pointing out that “personal sacrifice is rewarding.”
Prof. Joseph also reflected on the support he received from colleagues following the loss of his wife, noting that it helped him develop emotional resilience and navigate life’s challenges.
The daughter of the honouree, Dr Tosin Alere, expressed appreciation to guests and well-wishers for their support and presence at the ceremony.
In her remarks, the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the event, Prof. Mutiat A. Balogun, thanked contributors and supporters, noting that the event reflected the strong sense of unity and community within the Faculty and Department.
Highlights of the event included the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of gifts by colleagues, students, and well-wishers, group photographs, music, and dancing.
Also present at the event were Prof. Oluyemi B. Fawole, former Dean of Agriculture; Prof. Musbau Akanji; Prof. T. A. Aliyu; Prof. B. A. Raji, the Managing Director of UNILORIN Holdings; Prof. R. O. Arise, Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences; and a Deputy Registrar, Mr. M. A. Opaleke,among other dignitaries.
