The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has advocated continued collaboration between the University and the Kwara State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS) to safeguard the lives and property of staff and students of the institution.
Prof. Egbewole stated this last Wednesday (January 8, 2025) when he paid a courtesy visit to the new DSS State Director, Mr. Mikel Oganwu, to formally welcome him to Kwara State.
Noting the vital role of the DSS in maintaining the University’s reputation as a secure and conducive environment for academic and research excellence, Prof. Egbewole told the new DSS Chief, “Your service and our University have enjoyed a very positive and symbiotic relationship, and we are committed to continuing on this path.”
The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the DSS Command for acceding to the University’s earlier request for security personnel training, which has greatly enhanced the efficiency of the Institution’s internal security framework.
Prof. Egbewole reiterated the University’s prioritisation of security as a key factor in fostering academic excellence, saying that “as a University, we put a premium on the security of our staff and students. This is why we are requesting your continued support by having your men patrol our campuses regularly to ensure the safety of all members of our community.”
The Vice Chancellor further acknowledged the fruitful relationship that had existed over the years between the University and the DSS, as he expressed optimism that this partnership would grow even stronger under the leadership of Mr Oganwu.
While welcoming the University of Ilorin’s team to his office, the DSS Director, Mr. Oganwu pledged to elevate the longstanding partnership between the DSS and the University to ensure that the institution continues to enjoy maximum security of life and properties.
Mr Oganwu expressed his appreciation for the historical collaboration between the Command and the University, saying, “When I assumed office, I reviewed reports detailing the fruitful relationship between the DSS and the University of Ilorin over the years. I am well-briefed and fully aware of the University’s significance as a key stakeholder in Kwara State.”
While assuring the University leadership of continued support, Mr Oganwu affirmed his commitment to strengthening the existing partnership for the greater benefit of the society. He said, “I vow to sustain the foundation I met and improve upon it for the benefit of humankind. Be rest assured that whatever support you require will be provided, and the DSS will continue to stand by your university.”
The DSS boss also applauded the Vice Chancellor and his management team for appointing Mr. Femi Ogidi as the University’s Ag. Director of Security, describing him as a seasoned professional.
He described Mr Ogidi as one of the finest officers in the DSS before his retirement, adding that his expertise has been invaluable since joining the University of Ilorin.
With the Vice Chancellor on the visit were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Suleiman Folorunsho Ambali; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole; the Registrar, Mr Mansur Adeleke Alfanla; the Bursar, Mr Abiodun Lawal; the University Librarian, Dr Kamaldeen Tunde Omopupa, the Ag. Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Akanmu and the Ag. Director of Security, Mr Paul Bamidele Ogidi.
