Christian POs, Deans, Directors on Eid el-Kabir visitation to Muslim counterparts
By Isaac Lewu
In a demonstration of the enduring tradition of religious harmony, mutual respect, and institutional unity at the University of Ilorin, a delegation of Christian members of the University management team, last Friday (May 29, 2026), visited their Muslim counterparts to rejoice with them on the occasion of Eid el-Kabir.
The delegation, led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Olalere Adeyemi, included the Director of SIWES, Prof. Roland Monday Kayode; the Director of Unilorin Renewable Energy Centre, Prof. Peter O. Adeoye; the Director of Mentorship, Prof. Tanimola Makanjuola Akande; the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Olukunmi Lanre Olaitan; the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Joshua Olanrewaju Olaoye; and the Dean of the Postgraduate School, Prof. Friday Nwosu, among others.
The first port of call was the residence of the University Bursar, Mr Abiodun Lawal, where the delegation was warmly received by members of his family.
The Bursar commended the Christian management team for sustaining a tradition that transcends religious affiliations and promotes genuine friendship among staff members. He observed that the visit exemplified the spirit of love, understanding, and cooperation that has continued to distinguish the University from its peers.
The team then proceeded to the residence of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola, where they were received alongside her husband, the Director of Health Services and forner Council Member, Dr Rasheed Odunola.
In her remarks, Prof. Bakare-Odunola thanked the delegation for the honour and goodwill demonstrated through the visit, describing it as another testament to the commitment of the University to fostering a united academic family irrespective of religious differences.
Also speaking, Dr Rasheed Odunola lauded the initiative as a remarkable expression of interfaith harmony and mutual respect. He noted that the sustained culture of visiting one another during festive periods has significantly contributed to the peaceful atmosphere enjoyed within the University community.
While receiving the visitors at his residence, Prof. Muftau Adeniyi Ijaiya, a Governing Council Member, who is also the Vice Chancellor of Jimoh Babalola University (JBU), expressed happiness for the thoughtful gesture.
Prof. Ijaiya described the visit as a reflection of the unique culture of peace building and inclusivity for which the University of Ilorin is renowned.
He noted that such engagements continue to strengthen interpersonal relationships among members of the University community and reinforce the reputation of the University as a model of unity and stability.
At the residence of the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof. K. W. Wahab, the delegation was received with excitement and gratitude.
In his remarks, Prof. Wahab described the visit as heartwarming and symbolic of the strong relationships existing among members of the University management. He stated that such gestures promote trust, understanding, and collaboration, which are essential ingredients for institutional progress.
The delegation also visited the residence of the Registrar, Mr Mansur Adeleke Alfanla,
who expressed appreciation to the team for finding time to share in the joy of the festive season with his family.
Mr Alfanla remarked that the University has continued to set an enviable example of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, adding that initiatives of this nature strengthen staff morale and encourage a greater sense of belonging.
The Sallah homage climaxed at the residence of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN.
Speaking on behalf of the visitors, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Olalere Adeyemi, thanked the Vice Chancellor for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to promoting peace, inclusivity, and mutual respect across the University community.
In his response, Prof. Egbewole expressed delight at the visit and commended members of the Christian management team for their demonstration of love and solidarity.
Prof. Egbewole, who was represented by his wife, Mrs Muibat Adeola Egbewole, noted that the University of Ilorin has remained a shining example of national unity because of the willingness of its staff and students to embrace diversity while working towards shared goals.
The Vice Chancellor urged members of the University community to continue nurturing the values of tolerance, understanding, and selfless service that have sustained the University’s enviable record of peace and excellence.
The legal luminary further stressed that occasions such as the Sallah homage provide valuable opportunities for strengthening relationships and reaffirming the collective resolve to advance the vision of the University. He prayed for continued peace, progress, and divine guidance for members of the University community and the nation at large.
The visit ended with prayers, goodwill messages, and renewed commitments by members of the University management to continue working together in an atmosphere of harmony, unity, and shared responsibility towards the attainment of the strategic objectives of the University.
