PROF SHUAIB OBA ABDULRAHEEM

In his tribute, the 7th Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem, described the deceased as a distinguished administrator, an exemplary family man and a leader whose life reflected humility, discipline and service to humanity. He noted that Prof. Ambali’s tenure as Vice Chancellor brought pride not only to the University community but also to people of his hometown and beyond, adding that he gave an excellent account of himself wherever he served.

Prof. Abdulraheem said that the late former Vice Chancellor took after his father, Alhaji Gidado Ambali, who was widely known in the community for renting bicycles to young people and was fondly regarded as a man who kept people happy at all times. According to him, the elder Ambali was renowned for his patience, kindness and gentle disposition, qualities that were clearly reflected in the life of his son. He recalled that Prof. Ambali was equally patient, approachable and always carried a warm smile that endeared him to colleagues, friends and associates.

The former Vice Chancellor said he had known Prof. Ambali from childhood and watched him grow into a respected scholar and accomplished administrator. He described the late academic as a quiet and disciplined individual who lived an exemplary life and demonstrated the type of leadership needed for national development and institutional growth.

While expressing condolences to the family, the University community and associates of the deceased, Prof. Abdulraheem urged everyone to reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of good character. He prayed Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Prof. Ambali, admit him into Aljanah Firdaus and grant his family, friends and colleagues the fortitude to bear the great loss.

EMERITUS PROF. IS’HAQ OLOYEDE, CFR

On his part, the 8th Vice Chancellor of the University, Emeritus Prof. Is’haq Olanrewaju Oloyede (OON), who joined the Special Senate Session through Zoom, described the late Professor of Veterinary Medicine as a man whose life was devoted to service, humanity and the upliftment of others. He noted that the deceased distinguished himself through his commitment to worthy causes and his readiness to support people irrespective of their backgrounds.

Emeritus Prof. Oloyede noted that his relationship with the late Vice Chancellor, who was his immediate successor, spanned many years, during which he came to appreciate his humility, sincerity and unwavering dedication to the welfare of his community. According to him, the late Prof. Ambali was a dependable ally whose contributions to societal development would remain unforgettable in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

The outgoing Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) recalled several instances where the deceased demonstrated uncommon generosity and compassion, stressing that he consistently placed the interests of others above personal gain. He added that Prof. Ambali’s exemplary conduct earned him the respect and admiration of friends, associates and family members alike.

While praying for the peaceful repose of Prof. Ambali’s soul, Emeritus Prof. Oloyede urged those he left behind to uphold the values of integrity, kindness and selfless service for which he was known. He said the late Vice Chancellor had left behind a legacy worthy of emulation and would be greatly missed by all who encountered him.

PROF. SULYMAN AGE ABDULKAREEM

Also in his own tribute, the 10th Vice Chancellor of the University and Prof. Ambali’s immediate successor, Prof. Sulyman Age Abdulkareem, described the late former Vice-Chancellor, as a kind-hearted, visionary and selfless administrator whose commitment to the growth of the University left an enduring legacy. He recalled how the late scholar entrusted him with key responsibilities and provided opportunities that contributed significantly to his academic and professional development.

Prof. Abdulkareem noted that the late former Vice-Chancellor was a leader who believed in identifying and nurturing talent, adding that his confidence in his colleagues inspired many members of staff to strive for excellence. He said Prof. Ambali remained committed to institutional development and always sought ways to advance the University through prudent leadership, capacity building and support for younger academics.

Reflecting on his personal relationship with the deceased, Prof. Abdulkareem said that despite occasional misunderstandings and challenges, he never doubted Prof. Ambali’s sincerity, generosity and desire to do well. According to him, the late former Vice-Chancellor possessed a rare disposition for helping others and remained steadfast in his dedication to the progress of the University and the welfare of its staff.

He prayed Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased and grant him Aljanah Firdaus. Prof. Abdulkareem also urged members of the University community to emulate the late administrator’s virtues of service, humility and kindness, while extending his condolences to the family, friends and associates he left behind.

PROF BAYO LAWAL, EX-DVC

While paying his tribute, a former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Bayo Lawal, described the late 9th Vice Chancellor, under whom he served as Deputy Vice Chancellor, as a humble leader whose life and death reflected divine grace. He recalled the late Prof. Ambali’s exemplary character, spiritual devotion and dedication to service.

Pointing out that Prof. Ambali was spared prolonged suffering and departed peacefully after a life marked by humility, generosity and unwavering faith in Allah, Prof. Lawal revealed that the late academic attended the Friday congregational prayer, participated in funeral rites and visited relatives shortly before his death, actions he described as spiritually significant.

The former Deputy Vice Chancellor also recounted an incident in which Prof. Ambali requested a sermon from a younger lecturer and cleric a few days before his passing. According to him, the sermon, which centred on Allah as the sole giver and taker of power and honour, left the former Vice Chancellor in deep reflection before he responded with the words, “Allahu Akbar, God is great.”

Reflecting on their years of working together, Prof. Lawal said his professional relationship with Prof. Ambali began about 14 years ago when the latter assumed office as the University’s ninth Vice Chancellor. He recalled pledging his loyalty and support to the new Vice Chancellor immediately after the handover ceremony and said he quickly observed Prof. Ambali’s calm disposition and admirable leadership qualities. While describing the experience as rewarding, he noted that the administration occasionally faced challenges arising from misinformation and unnecessary panic generated by some individuals, he described as “Fifth Columnists”, in the system.

Prof. Lawal cited instances when false alarms were relayed to Prof. Ambali during official trips abroad, including reports of a supposed major fire outbreak on campus and another alleged security emergency. He explained that the late Vice Chancellor became understandably concerned by the reports and had to be reassured with factual updates and evidence from the University. Despite such pressures, he said Prof. Ambali remained committed to responsible leadership, demonstrating patience, composure and a deep sense of duty throughout his tenure.

PROF. GABRIEL OLATUNJI, EX-DVC

In his own tribute, another former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Gabriel Olatunji, described the late former Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ambali, as a humble, transparent and visionary administrator whose leadership style fostered inclusiveness, accountability and institutional growth. He recalled that Prof. Ambali consulted widely before taking major decisions and encouraged members of his management team to contribute freely to discussions, thereby promoting collective responsibility in governance.

According to Prof. Olatunji, the late Veterinary Medicine scholar was deeply committed to strategic development and ensured that projects embarked upon during his administration were adequately funded and closely monitored to successful completion.

He noted that several academic programmes and specialised centres were established under Prof. Ambali’s leadership, while infrastructural projects received the financial backing required to secure approvals from relevant regulatory and intervention agencies.

The former Deputy Vice Chancellor further commended Prof. Ambali’s prudent management of resources, saying that the former Vice-Chancellor consistently prioritised value for money and discouraged wasteful spending. He explained that the late administrator often advocated cost-saving measures, including road travel for official assignments where feasible, in order to channel available resources towards critical developmental needs of the University.

Prof. Olatunji also highlighted the deceased’s fairness, trust in his Principal Officers and deep sense of responsibility, stressing that he empowered members of his management team to function effectively during his absence without undue interference. He added that Prof. Ambali’s kindness, compassion, humour and fear of God endeared him to colleagues and staff, leaving behind enduring lessons in leadership, service and human relations that would continue to inspire generations within and beyond the University community.

PROF. N. Y. S. IJAIYA, EX- DVC

Former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. N.Y.S. Ijaiya, in her own tribute, said that the late 9th Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ambali, left behind a legacy of exemplary leadership, transparency and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. He described the deceased as a principled administrator whose open-door policy, consultative approach and respect for due process contributed immensely to the peace and stability enjoyed by the University during his tenure.

Prof. Ijaiya, who served under Prof. Ambali between 2014 and 2017, recalled that the late Vice Chancellor demonstrated remarkable courage and wisdom in handling administrative and financial challenges confronting the University. According to her, Prof. Ambali remained calm, focused and solution-oriented during the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), ensuring that the institution continued to fulfill its academic mandate without compromising standards.

The former Deputy Vice Chancellor further noted that Prof. Ambali’s administration witnessed significant infrastructural and academic development, including the construction of new lecture theatres, laboratories and Faculty buildings, as well as the introduction of innovative academic programmes. He added that the late Vice Chancellor maintained the University’s culture of discipline and academic integrity, which contributed to the successful accreditation of all academic programmes during the period.

While praying for the repose of the soul of the departed scholar, Prof. Ijaiya expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to have worked closely with him. He urged members of the University community to uphold the values of integrity, diligence and selfless service exemplified by Prof. Ambali, stressing that his contributions to the growth and development of the University of Ilorin would remain indelible in the history of the institution.

MR EMMANUEL DADA OBAFEMI, EX-REGISTRAR

In his tribute, a former Registrar of the University, Mr. Emmanuel Dada Obafemi, described the late former Vice Chancellor as a visionary administrator whose commitment to staff development, welfare and institutional stability greatly transformed the University.

Mr. Obafemi recalled that Prof. Ambali fulfilled his promise to develop every category of staff, noting that extensive training and capacity-building programmes for Registry personnel were institutionalised during his Administration and have remained a lasting legacy at the University.

Mr. Obafemi, who served as Registrar under Professor Ambali between 2013 and 2017, recounted how the late former Vice Chancellor demonstrated responsiveness to staff needs by approving the renovation and upgrading of the Registrar’s Office and the entire Block 1 of the Senate Building shortly after the matter was brought to his attention. According to him, Prof. Ambali’s administration was distinguished by practical interventions that improved both the working environment and staff morale, while also creating opportunities for professional growth across the University community.

The former Registrar further disclosed that Prof. Ambali’s concern for staff welfare led to the introduction of annual end-of-year gifts for workers, a gesture he said strengthened the sense of belonging among employees. He also commended the late Vice Chancellor for sustaining the University’s long-standing tradition of industrial harmony despite pressures that confronted the nation’s university system at the time. The absence of strikes during the period, he noted, contributed significantly to the institution’s reputation as a preferred destination for prospective students and their parents.

Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late former Vice Chancellor, Mr. Obafemi described Prof. Ambali as a straightforward, transparent and dependable leader who encouraged initiative and rewarded sound ideas. He said the deceased administrator provided an enabling environment for officers to excel, provided they presented well-reasoned proposals in the overall interest of the University. While expressing sadness over his passing, Mr. Obafemi maintained that Prof. Ambali’s enduring legacies in staff development, welfare, infrastructural improvement and good governance would continue to inspire future generations of administrators at the University of Ilorin.

PROF. A. B. O. OMOTOSO, EX-PROVOST, CoHS

A former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Prof. A.B. O. Omotoso, in his own tribute, described the late 9th Vice Chancellor of the University, the late Prof. Ambali, as a visionary leader, an accomplished administrator and a committed academic whose contributions left an enduring impact on the institution.

Prof. Omotoso recalled the deceased’s unwavering dedication to the growth and development of the University, noting that the late administrator demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, fostered unity among members of the University community and championed initiatives that strengthened the reputation of the University within and outside Nigeria.

According to Prof. Omotoso, the late former Vice Chancellor’s tenure was marked by remarkable achievements in academic excellence, infrastructural development and staff welfare. He added that his commitment to service and passion for the advancement of education would continue to inspire future generations of scholars and administrators.

The former Provost expressed sadness over the demise of the former Vice Chancellor, describing the loss as not only a painful one to the University community but also to the nation’s educational sector. He prayed that Almighty God would forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him eternal rest and reward his good deeds.

Prof. Omotoso also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Prof. Ambali, urging them to take solace in the exemplary life he lived and the enduring legacy he left behind. He prayed that God would grant the family the strength, comfort and guidance needed to bear the irreparable loss and continue to uphold the noble values for which the deceased was known.

KU8+

The Consortium of Kwara Universities (KU8+) also paid glowing tribute to the late Prof. Ambali.

Representing the Consortium at the Special Senate session, the Vice Chancellor of Ojaja University, Eiyenkorin, Ilorin, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, described the late former Vice Chancellor as one of Nigeria’s finest academic administrators whose contributions to higher education transcended the boundaries of the University of Ilorin.

According to Prof. Ojuade, Prof. Ambali’s exemplary leadership, commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to institutional development left an enduring imprint on the nation’s university system. He noted that the KU8+ universities considered his passing as a monumental loss not only to academia but also to the larger Nigerian society.

He further remarked that Prof. Ambali’s tenure at the University of Ilorin witnessed significant growth in infrastructure, academic visibility and administrative stability, achievements that earned the institution greater national and international recognition.

According to him, the late scholar’s ability to foster peace, promote innovation and maintain harmonious relationships among stakeholders distinguished him as a leader of uncommon wisdom and integrity. He added that many contemporary university administrators continue to draw inspiration from the policies and leadership principles championed by the deceased.

The Ojaja University Vice Chancellor also conveyed the condolences of the Founder and Chancellor of Ojaja University, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, and other KU8+ stakeholders, recalling the cordial relationship that existed between the revered monarch and the late Professor Ambali. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the departed scholar and urged members of the academic community to sustain the values of excellence, discipline and selfless service for which Prof. Ambali was widely known.

UNILORIN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The University of Ilorin Alumni Association has described the late Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, as an outstanding academic and administrator whose tenure as the 9th Vice Chancellor of the University left an enduring legacy of excellence, stability and growth.

In its tribute delivered by its National President, Prof. AbdulRasheed Kilani, the global alumni body, said that the late Vice Chancellor’s commitment to integrity, visionary leadership and institutional development transformed the University and elevated its profile both nationally and internationally.

According to the Alumni President, Prof. Ambali’s administration recorded remarkable achievements in infrastructure development, academic advancement and the sustenance of an uninterrupted academic calendar, a feat that distinguished the University among its peers in Nigeria. He noted that the late scholar’s passion for educational excellence and youth development earned him the admiration of staff, students, alumni and stakeholders across the country.

Prof. Kilani further stated that beyond his accomplishments as a Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ambali served as a mentor, father figure and source of inspiration to countless members of the University community. He observed that the late Veterinary Medicine Professor demonstrated uncommon humility, compassion and dedication to service, qualities that endeared him to colleagues and associates throughout his illustrious career.

While praying for the repose of the soul of Prof. Ambali, the Alumni Association President urged members of the University community to uphold the values of hard work, discipline and excellence for which the late former Vice Chancellor was renowned. He expressed confidence that the late Prof. Ambali’s contributions to the growth and prestige of the University of Ilorin would remain a lasting reference point for future generations, even as the institution continues to benefit from the foundation he helped to build.

KWARA STATE GOVERNOR

Also in his tribute, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the late former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Ambali, as a patriot whose contributions transcended the University, Kwara State and Nigeria.

Represented at the Special Senate Session by the Head of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ilorin, Dr. Ghali Mohammed Ibraheem, the Governor said the demise of Prof. Ambali was a great loss to his family, the academic community, the state and the nation at large. He noted that the late scholar distinguished himself through exemplary leadership, dedication to public service and commitment to educational development.

According to the Governor, Prof. Ambali was deeply passionate about the welfare of students and staff, always showing keen interest in issues affecting the University community. He recalled that the former Vice-Chancellor’s leadership style was characterised by accessibility, compassion and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

While urging members of the University community to emulate the noble virtues of the late academic, the Governor reminded the gathering of the inevitability of death and the need for all to live purposeful lives. He prayed Almighty Allah to forgive Professor Ambali’s shortcomings, grant him Aljanah Firdaus and give his family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the loss.

PROF. SALIU AKANNI AMEEN, DEAN, VET MEDICINE

The Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Saliu Akanni Ameen, described the pioneer Dean of the Faculty, the late Prof. Ambali, as a dependable leader, mentor and pillar of support whose contributions laid a solid foundation for the growth and success of the Faculty.

Prof. Ameen recalled his last conversation with the deceased on the very night of his passing, noting that despite his busy schedule, the late Prof. Ambali remained committed to offering guidance and assistance. He said that the late former Vice-Chancellor was always available to provide wise counsel whenever challenges arose in the Faculty, adding that his leadership style was marked by patience, humility and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Dean further noted that the remarkable achievements recorded by the Faculty over the years were largely attributable to the visionary leadership and encouragement of the late Prof. Ambali, adding that the deceased consistently inspired staff and students to pursue excellence and approach challenges with confidence, assuring them that every problem had a solution when handled with wisdom and dedication.

Prof. Ameen  also recounted his encounter with Prof. Ambali during a fellowship programme at the University of Ibadan, where the late scholar distinguished himself through exceptional teaching and academic brilliance. He described Prof. Ambali as an accomplished academic and a deeply religious man whose legacy of service, scholarship and mentorship would continue to inspire generations within and beyond the University community.

KWASU VC

In his own tribute, the Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, described the late former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, as an extraordinary leader whose contributions to higher education left an enduring impact on the Nigerian university system.

The KWASU Vice Chancellor, who was represented by Prof. Isiaka Aliagan at the Special Senate Session, said that the late academic icon’s remarkable stewardship as the 9th Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin between 2012 and 2017 elevated the institution to greater heights. He noted that Prof. Ambali’s philosophy of sustainable development strengthened the University’s reputation as one of the most sought-after institutions of higher learning in Nigeria and beyond.

According to the KWASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ambali’s tenure witnessed significant expansion in academic programmes and infrastructure development, while his blend of academic excellence and human empathy distinguished him as a respected scholar and administrator.

He further highlighted Prof. Ambali’s service as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of KWASU, where he provided visionary leadership, promoted institutional stability and fostered collaboration within the higher education sector.

The KWASU Vice Chancellor added that Prof. Ambali would be remembered for his humility, wisdom and mentorship, noting that his legacies would continue to inspire generations of scholars and administrators. He prayed Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings, grant him Aljanah Firdaus and give his family and the academic community the strength to bear the loss.

COMMITTEE OF PROVOST AND DEANS (C0PD)

Speaking on behalf of the Committee of Provosts and Deans (CoPD), University of Ilorin, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences and Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Biodun Sulyman Alabi, described the late Prof. Ambali as a visionary administrator, distinguished scholar and mentor whose contributions significantly advanced academic excellence and research development at the University.

Prof. Alabi, who was represented at the Special Senate Session by the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Rotimi Olusanya Arise, said the late former Vice Chancellor maintained an open-door policy and provided purposeful leadership that fostered growth in research, academic programmes and institutional development. He noted that Professor Ambali consistently championed initiatives that created opportunities for staff and students to excel both within and outside the University.

The COPD Chairman further noted that Prof. Ambali’s support extended to staff development and capacity building, citing his approval for specialised training programmes that enhanced professional growth among members of staff. While mourning his passing, he urged members of the University community to sustain the ideals of excellence, integrity and service for which the late Vice Chancellor was renowned, praying that Almighty Allah grant him Aljanah Firdaus and comfort his family and loved ones.

Recalling his personal encounters with the late academic, Prof. Arise said Prof. Ambali was a leader who recognised and valued people irrespective of their status. He recounted how the former Vice Chancellor supported the University’s participation in national and international quiz and debate competitions, ensuring that students and staff represented the institution at various academic engagements across Nigeria and other African countries.

ILORIN EMIRATE DEVELOPMENT PROGRESSIVE UNION (IEDPU)

In its own tribute to one of its illustrious lat member, the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), described the late Prof. Ambali as one of the finest sons of the Ilorin Emirate whose life was dedicated to scholarship, leadership and community service.

It’s President, Alhaji Abdulmumini Ayo Abdulmalik, who was represented by Vice President of the Union, Alhaji AbdulRauf Babatunde Issa, noted that the late former Vice Chancellor brought honour and prestige to the Emirate through his remarkable achievements in academia and public service.

The IEDPU President stated that Prof. Ambali distinguished himself as an outstanding ambassador of the Ilorin Emirate. He recalled that the Union closely followed the late academic’s stewardship as Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin and remained proud of his contributions to the growth and development of the institution.

According to the Union, Prof. Ambali’s successful tenure as Vice Chancellor and later as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Kwara State University (KWASU) reflected his commitment to excellence, integrity, humility and patriotism.

The Union added that Prof. Ambali’s enduring legacy would continue to inspire future generations within and beyond the academic community.

The IEDPU also appealed to the University authorities not to abandon the family of the deceased, particularly his widow and children. The Union further urged the institution to immortalise the late scholar through the erection of a monument or the naming of a structure after him, noting that such a gesture would preserve his memory and encourage younger generations to embrace selfless service and dedication to humanity.