By Isaac Lewu
The Department of Chemistry, University of Ilorin, penultimate Thursday (September 4, 2025) held its annual award ceremony and alumni public lecture at the Faculty of Physical Sciences Board Room. The event was organised to mark the end of the 2024/2025 academic session.
In her opening remarks, the Head of the Department, Prof. Medinah AbdulRaheem, explained that the gathering was designed not only to honour outstanding contributions of staff and students but also to strengthen the Department’s bond with its alumni. She stressed the importance of synergy between past and present members of the Department in advancing research and innovation.
Two distinguished alumni of the Department, Mr Gbenga Olorunmodunmi Michael and Miss Toyin Ayandokun, delivered the public lecture. They shared insights from their professional journeys and inspired staff and students to pursue greatness.
The presentations of the duo highlighted the relevance of Chemistry in solving real-world challenges while encouraging budding scientists to remain committed to excellence.
The award segment featured recognitions across several categories, including students, secretariat staff, technologists, academic staff, and professors. The gesture was widely applauded as a morale booster and a means of appreciating dedication to duty.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the Quality Assurance Unit, Prof. AbdulRazzaq AbdulMajeed Alaro, commended the initiative of rewarding staff members for quality service delivery.
Prof. Alaro urged the Department to sustain the practice, adding that rewarding excellence distinguishes great universities. He further encouraged other Faculties, Departments, and units to emulate the initiative.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, a former Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. U. B. Eke, expressed his appreciation for the honour, pledging the honourees’ renewed commitment to their academic and professional responsibilities. Also present were three former Deans of the Faculty, Prof. B. L. Adeleke, Prof. F. A. Adekola and Prof. Baba Abdullahi Alafara, among others
