Egbewole hails UNILORIN-Army partnership

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has commended the relationship between the university and the nation’s Armed Forces, particularly, the Nigerian Army.

 Prof. Egbewole explained that the continuous positive relationship between the Nigerian Army College of Education (NACOE) and the Nigerian Army Institute of Science, Education and Technology (NAISET) has been fruitful and symbiotic as he described it as a testament to the enduring partnership between the academia and the armed forces.

Prof. Egbewole made this remark last Tuesday (April 30, 2024) during a meeting with a delegation led by the new Provost of the Nigerian Army College of Education (NACOE), Sobi, Ilorin, Major- General Umar Nasir Babangida, that visited the University.

The renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria explained the importance of the relationship to the University, noting that an educational institution like the University of Ilorin must positively impact its community, which defines the essence of the bond between the institution and NACOE.

Expressing the commitment of the University to translating collaboration into tangible outcomes, Prof. Egbewole emphasised the need for concerted efforts to harness synergies in research endeavours. “It is now time to create synergy in research; this will propel us further in our shared objectives,” he remarked.

The Professor of Jurisprudence and International Law expressed the  readiness of the University to provide training support to NACOE as he said that such would showcase the institution’s dedication to serving the needs of the Nigerian Army.

Reacting to a request by the delegation, the Vice Chancellor said that the University would be willing to nurture the proposed Entrepreneurship  Centre of the NACOE.

Speaking earlier, the Provost of NACOE, Major General Babangida, reflected on the longstanding and harmonious relationship existing between the Nigerian Army and UNILORIN as he expressed his intent to further strengthen this bond and seek additional support.

Acknowledging the invaluable assistance of University staff members during the recent accreditation exercise conducted at the College, Major-General Babangida expressed gratitude for their contributions, particularly noting the significant role played by UNILORIN adjunct lecturers in enhancing the standard of the academic programmes.

The Provost noted the commitment of the two institutions to fostering meaningful partnerships and advancing academic excellence, which, he said, would pave the way for collaborative efforts that will benefit both the military and civilian communities alike.

Also speaking, a member of the delegation, who is also the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Institute of Science Education and Technology (NAISET), Major-General Sani Sumaila Ibrahim, disclosed that the Chief of Army Staff had requested the integration of educational policies and principles into the training curriculum for senior officers of the College.

He, therefore, requested the  assistance of the university in organising a workshop for the concerned officers.