Ijaiya tasks JBU’s pioneer students on pursuit of excellence
By Bashirat Omotosho
The Officer-in-Charge of the Vice Chancellor’s Office, Jimoh Babalola University (JBU), Ilorin, Prof. Muftau Adeniyi Ijaiya, has charged the institution’s pioneer students to pursue excellence in all areas of their academic and personal lives.
Prof Ijaiya gave the charge last Friday (March 27, 2026) at the maiden Matriculation Ceremony for the 65 pioneer students of the University at its Egbejila Road, Ilorin campus.
In his address, titled “It Is Time to Shine,” Prof. Ijaiya described students as pathfinders with a unique responsibility to shape the future and reputation of the University. He urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their studies.
He told the matriculating students, “You are privileged to be the foundation of this great institution. It is time to shine. Let your excellence speak in your academics, your character, and your contributions to society.”
Prof. Ijaiya emphasised that the University is committed to providing a conducive environment for learning, backed by quality teaching, innovation, and strong moral values.
He charged the 65 matriculants to be worthy ambassadors of the University, stressing that the Management remains committed to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also morally upright and socially responsible.
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the Matriculation Oath, where the 65 students pledged to abide by the University’s rules and uphold its standards of conduct.
In her goodwill message, The Zonal Coordinator of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Mrs Ramat Titilayo Shittu, congratulated the University on its successful maiden matriculation ceremony.
She commended the University for aligning with national admission standards and ensuring transparency in its admission process.
In his remarks, a member of the Governing Council of the University, Dr Joseph Omiwole, congratulated the pioneer students, whom he described as “torchbearers” who will set the tone for future generations.
He assured the students and their parents of the Council’s unwavering commitment to providing sound policies, quality infrastructure, and a stable academic environment that would enable both staff and students to thrive.
Also speaking, the representative of the Kwara State Ministry of Tertiary Education, Hajia Rabiat Akanbi, noted that the establishment of the University aligns with the state government’s vision of promoting human capital development and educational advancement.
She charged the students to be worthy ambassadors of the institution and to embrace innovation, critical thinking, and ethical conduct.
Among the dignitaries that attended the Matriculation Ceremony were a former Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin, Prof. H. D. Ijaiya, and Dr Muhtahir Oloyede of the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin.
