Egbewole celebrates Kolawole, FISU Ambassador
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has rejoiced with a 400-level student of the Department of Physiotherapy, Miss Esther Anuoluwapo Kolawole, following her appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador for the International University Sports Federation (FISU) for the 2025–2026 term.
Miss Kolawole was formally presented to Prof. Egbewole last Wednesday (April 1, 2026) at the Committee Room of the Office of the Vice Chancellor by the Chairman of the University Sports Council, Prof. Mashood Abiola Raji and the Director of Sports, Prof. Tajudeen Olarewaju Ibraheem.
While welcoming the Ambassador to his office, the Vice Chancellor commended Miss Kolawole for bringing pride to the institution through her outstanding achievement, describing her selection as a highly competitive and remarkable feat. He noted that being chosen as one of only two ambassadors representing Nigeria explained her dedication, competence, and exemplary character.
Prof. Egbewole also acknowledged the student’s ability to combine academic excellence with active participation in sports, describing her as a model of balance and resilience. He expressed confidence in her capacity to serve as a worthy representative of both the University and the nation on the global stage.
The Vice Chancellor said that sports should not be seen merely as physical activities but also as a platform for intellectual engagement, leadership development, and global opportunities. He, moreover, reiterated the University’s deliberate and strategic commitment to sports development, stating that its consistent investment in the sector is intentional and geared toward holistic student development.
Prof. Egbewole wished Miss Kolawole success in her new role and expressed optimism that she would make meaningful contributions during her tenure as Nigeria’s FISU Ambassador.
Speaking earlier, Miss Kolawole appreciated the management of the University for the opportunity granted her to study in the institution and for the capacity-building environment that enabled her to attain the ambassadorial role.
She acknowledged that her journey over the past four years had been marked by active participation in volunteering and leadership engagements, which equipped her with the requisite skills to compete at both national and global levels.
According to her, the exposure gained within the University environment contributed immensely to her understanding of leadership, teamwork, and global engagement.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the University Sports Council, Prof. Raji described FISU as a leading body overseeing university sports worldwide, noting that the Nigerian University Games Association is affiliated to it.
He also explained that Miss Kolawole’s selection followed a rigorous process and stands as a testament to her outstanding performance and the quality of students produced by the University.
Prof. Raji added that by virtue of the award, Miss Kolawole would represent Nigeria at the FISU Volunteer Leaders Academy (FVLA), an international platform dedicated to grooming young leaders in sports volunteering, event management, and intercultural relations.
He noted that the programme provides participants with the opportunity to engage with peers from across the globe and to acquire competencies that would enhance sports development at institutional and national levels.
In his remarks, the Director of Sports, Prof. Ibraheem, commended the Vice Chancellor for his sustained support for the University’s Sports Unit. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Directorate to work diligently towards achieving greater milestones and bringing more honours to the institution through strategic sports development initiatives and active student engagement.
