UNILORIN, HUST to forge strategic partnership on research, innovation
By Isaac Lewu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has reaffirmed the commitment of the University to encourage strategic collaborations aimed at strengthening research, innovation and academic excellence among Nigerian universities.
Prof. Egbewole stated this penultimate Friday (May 15, 2026) while receiving the management team of Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi-Ekiti, during a courtesy visit to his office.
Welcoming his guests, the Vice Chancellor described inter-university collaboration as a critical tool for national development, stressing that higher institutions must continue to build productive alliances capable of promoting knowledge exchange, institutional growth and sustainable research development. He noted that universities achieve greater impact when they maintain strong and cordial relationships with one another.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria also pointed out that the partnership between both institutions will identify practical and result-oriented areas of cooperation that would deliver measurable academic and developmental benefits. According to him, partnerships among universities should extend beyond formal interactions and focus on initiatives capable of advancing innovation, scholarship and global competitiveness.
Prof. Egbewole commended the management team of HUST on the visit and appreciated the commitment of the institution towards fostering academic relationships. He assured the delegation of the readiness of the University of Ilorin to sustain meaningful engagements that would encourage mutual growth and long-term institutional cooperation.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of HUST, Prof. Iheanyichukwu Okoro, said the visit formed part of efforts to establish enduring partnerships with leading universities across the country. He explained that the collaboration of his University with UNILORIN would provide his institution the opportunity to strengthen its academic network within Kwara State and beyond.
Prof. Okoro described HUST as an entrepreneurial University, which focuses on innovation, sustainability and practical research designed to address societal challenges. He disclosed that the institution was developing self-sustaining programmes and innovation-driven initiatives in Science, Technology and Management to support academic advancement and reduce overdependence on external funding.
The HUST Vice Chancellor also stressed the importance of mentorship, collaboration and institutional partnerships in achieving the aspirations of the University, noting that HUST remained open to working with organisations, industries and individuals willing to support its developmental vision through technical expertise, facilities and research support.
Prof. Okoro appreciated the warm reception accorded his delegation and expressed optimism that the relationship between both institutions would translate into a productive and enduring partnership. He also assured the management of the University of Ilorin that the visit would be reciprocated in the spirit of mutual respect and academic cooperation.
Present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research Technology and Innovation), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the Deputy Registrar, Vice Chancellor’s Office, Mrs Azeezat Ibrahim, and other management team of the visiting University.
