Unilorin VC seeks stronger Alumni collaboration towards achieving Vision 1: 10: 500
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has emphasised the indispensable role of alumni of the University in realising the institution’s Vision 1:10:500. The Vision is strategic goal aimed at making UNILORIN the best university in Nigeria, one of Africa’s top ten, and among the leading 500 institutions in the world.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the Executive Committee of the University Alumni Association last Wednesday (April 1, 2026), Prof. Egbewole described alumni as critical stakeholders in the advancement of the University, noting that their involvement was vital in strengthening the institution’s global visibility, endowment drive, and mentorship network.
The Vice Chancellor urged the Alumni body needs to up its game in coming to term with the enormous task ahead of its Executive Committee in driving the global rating of the University.
He expressed confidence that through purposeful collaboration, the alumni could help drive initiatives that would place UNILORIN higher in international rankings, stressing that no university in the world can excel without the active engagement of its graduates.
Prof. Egbewole reiterated that the Vision 1:10:500 initiative is gaining momentum following the inauguration of the University Ranking Steering Committee, which was established to coordinate ranking-related activities and promote global best practices in institutional benchmarking. He urged the alumni Executive Committee members to align their programmes with the vision, pledging his administration’s readiness to support joint projects that would advance the University’s standing.
Responding, the National President of the Alumni Association, Prof. Abdulrasaq Olubusuyi Kilani, commended the University management for its inclusive approach but highlighted several challenges the Association currently faces. He noted that effective data mining and tracking of old alumni remain a major hurdle, as the Association seeks to maintain updated records of its members globally.
Prof. Kilani also lamented distractions stemming from internal rifts, calling for restraint and unity among members to refocus on the shared mission of supporting the growth of the University.
He assured the Vice Chancellor that the Association is committed to playing its part in achieving Vision 1:10:500, especially through resource mobilisation, mentoring, and advocacy.
In his presentation, the General Manager of the University Ranking Project, Prof. Suleiman Folorunsho Ambali, stressed the crucial role of alumni in improving Unilorin’s global ranking. He explained that alumni contributions—ranging from research collaborations and endowments to international linkages—significantly influence ranking metrics.
Prof. Ambali disclosed that the University currently ranks sixth in Nigeria, adding that enhanced alumni engagement could tip the scale upward in forthcoming global evaluations. He outlined specific action steps for alumni, including accurate data contribution, promotion of the university’s achievements across international platforms, and participation in fundraising and research initiatives.
The meeting ended on a note of renewed commitment, with both the University management and alumni leadership pledging to work in synergy towards achieving the Vision 1:10:500 agenda.
