Professionalism, key to effective service delivery – Adewoyin

By Abubakar Abdulquadri

The Deputy Registrar (Non-Teaching), Directorate of Human Resources, University of Ilorin, Mr Kabir Aderemi Adewoyin, has called on staff of the University—particularly those in the Executive Cadre—to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities, demonstrate commitment, and remain relevant within the system as it is key to their success.

Mr Adewoyin made the call last Tuesday (April 21, 2026) while delivering a lecture at a programme organised by the Executive Cadre Forum held at the Auditorium Basement.

Speaking on the topic, “The Core Roles of Executive Officers in the Registry,” Mr Adewoyin said a good Executive Officer must possess qualities such as reliability, organisation, discretion, and proactiveness. He added that such an officer ensures that administrative processes run smoothly without constant supervision.

The Guest Speaker also highlighted the need for members of the cadre to develop competence in drafting simple memos and letters, processing files and documents, noting that these are core responsibilities expected of them in service delivery within the University.

He further encouraged them to maintain and regularly update staff records, as well as handle filing, indexing, and retrieval of documents in line with Registry procedures, describing these as critical to effective performance.

Mr Adewoyin emphasised the importance of officers acquainting themselves with complete and accurate data and reports, entering and updating administrative records, and managing correspondences efficiently.

On expectations, he stated that Executive Officers must combine efficiency, integrity, and professionalism in handling records, correspondences, and institutional processes.

According to him, their responsibilities include liaison duties and ensuring compliance with established procedures to facilitate communication among Faculties, Departments, the Registry, as well as Schools, Centres, and Units within the University.

The Deputy Registrar warned against delays in the discharge of their duties and errors in documentation and record-keeping, noting that such lapses could negatively affect students, staff, and institutional decision-making.

He also advised participants to embrace personal development by transitioning from outdated methods of operation to electronic record-keeping and database management systems.

Also speaking on “Service Delivery, Accountability and the Role of SERVICOM in Promoting Efficiency within the University of Ilorin,” the SERVICOM Focal Officer of the University, Mrs Omowumi O. Azeez, noted that the responsibilities of the SERVICOM Unit extend beyond routine government obligations.

She said, “Every time you choose to be efficient, you are building a brick in the wall of a greater Nigeria. Every time you choose to be accountable, you are teaching our students a lesson more valuable than any textbook.”

Mrs Azeez  explained that SERVICOM is not a policing body within the University but a partner in institutional success. She, therefore, called for a shift from “service as a chore” to “service as a craft,” urging the staff members to uphold integrity and ensure that their actions reflect the University’s reputation for excellence.

She described SERVICOM as a social contract that guarantees that everyone who interacts with the University has the right to be served properly—timely, fairly, efficiently, transparently, and with dignity.

Mrs Azeez further outlined the core values of SERVICOM to include excellence, with a commitment to delivering world-class services; integrity, through adherence to truth and ethical standards; accountability, by taking responsibility for actions; and efficiency, in improving service delivery. She added that these values must be driven by a total commitment to positively impact the lives of citizens.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Executive Officers Cadre Forum of the University, Mr Muhammad Jamiu Galadima, explained that ‘‘the forum was established out of the need to create a unified voice and a collaborative space where Executive Officers can engage meaningfully, share ideas, and contribute constructively to the growth and development of our University.’’ He added that in an evolving academic environment, it is essential that we come together to align our roles, strengthen our capacity, and support institutional goals.

He also pointed out that the benefits of the forum are numerous, which include provision of opportunities for professional development, knowledge sharing and networking among peers and more.

In his goodwill message, the Deputy Registrar, Academic Support Transcripts, Mr M. A. Opaleke, advised staff to cherish teamwork, develop good relationship with their colleagues and always strive to identify their potentials, noting that these would help them to achieve their future ambitions.