VC challenges Deans to spearhead research for global recognition
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has challenged the Deans of Faculties across the University to personally lead the research teams in their respective Faculties, saying that as academics, they must champion the University’s research drive from the front to enhance its global visibility and ranking.
Prof. Egbewole, who gave the charge last Tuesday (July 28, 2026) at the Vice Chancellor’s In-House Committee meeting held at the Auditorium Basement, explained that the University’s aspiration of becoming one of the world’s leading institutions can only be achieved through quality research driven by committed academic leadership at the Faculty level.
Reaffirming the commitment of the University to research excellence, Prof. Egbewole said the institution had earmarked ₦50 million as the Senate Research Grant to support groundbreaking and impactful research projects by members of staff.
He, however, noted that the University places greater emphasis on the quality and relevance of research than on the number of beneficiaries, adding that even if only one proposal secures the grant, it would be worthwhile provided it produces groundbreaking results capable of making significant contributions to knowledge and society.
The Vice Chancellor also assured members of staff of the continued support of the University for publication in reputable open-access journals. He said that any researcher whose manuscript has been accepted for publication in a credible open-access journal should notify him of the publication charges, assuring that once the request is properly verified, the University would pay the required fee to facilitate global dissemination of quality research findings.
Speaking on international university rankings, Prof. Egbewole, who doubles as the Secretary General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), observed that global ranking is influenced by political and economic factors in many instances. He, however, maintained that the University of Ilorin would continue to pursue excellence through quality, merit and impactful scholarship.
According to him, the greatest strength of the University lies in producing groundbreaking research capable of addressing societal challenges, improving the profile of its researchers and strengthening the reputation of the University within the global academic community.
Prof. Egbewole pointed out that the University must deliberately tailor its research agenda towards areas that attract international attention and funding if it intends to compete effectively with leading universities across the world.
The Vice Chancellor further expressed concern that the University has not adequately showcased its numerous achievements, a development he said has limited its global visibility despite its remarkable accomplishments in research, teaching and innovation.
He, therefore, called on the Directorate of Computer Services and Information Technology (COMSIT), the New Media Team, the Ranking Unit, the Centre for Research Development and In-house Training (CREDIT), the Centre for Internationalisation and Strategic Partnership, and the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation) to work in close collaboration to promote the achievements of the University.
Prof. Egbewole explained that ensuring real-time updates on the University’s website and strategically publicising its achievements on professional platforms would generate greater international engagement than relying predominantly on conventional social media platforms.
Reflecting on the vision of his Administration, Prof. Egbewole said he remained committed to laying a solid foundation that would continue to benefit the University long after the expiration of his tenure. He noted that when another Vice Chancellor assumes office on October 16, 2027, he would leave office at peace with himself, knowing he had done his utmost to advance the University’s vision and strengthen its global standing.
