We ‘ll strengthen international partnerships-Egbewole
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has reiterated the commitment of the institution to strengthening international partnerships and leveraging alumni networks to enhance student development and institutional growth.
Prof. Egbewole gave this assurance penultimate Thursday (April 2, 2026), while receiving a visiting scholar from the International University of Japan, Dr Abdulazeez Idiaro. The visit, facilitated by the Centre for Internationalisation and Strategic Partnership (CISP), was part of ongoing efforts to deepen global engagement.
The Vice Chancellor, who described the visiting scholar as a distinguished alumnus, also appreciated his continued contributions to the University, particularly in fostering international exposure and mentorship opportunities for students.
Prof. Egbewole noted that Dr Idiaro has consistently demonstrated commitment and expressed hope that his efforts would gain wider visibility and showcase the positive impact of the University’s alumni on their alma mater.
Prof. Egbewole stressed the need to sustain and expand ongoing collaborations, pointing out that such engagements must translate into tangible outcomes that benefit both students and the institution.
While recognising Dr Idiaro’s mentorship of students through the X-Culture initiative, the Vice Chancellor described the effort as a valuable platform that exposes participants to global business practices and cross-cultural teamwork.
The Vice Chancellor expressed optimism that the initiative would continue to grow and provide more opportunities for students.
In his remarks, Dr Idiaro described his visit as a homecoming and an opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of the institution that shaped his career.
He explained that alumni, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, havea responsibility to support their alma mater, particularly through initiatives that benefit students.
While explaining that his visit was aimed at sustaining existing collaborations and exploring new areas of support that would benefit the University community and contribute to broader societal development, Dr Idiaro noted that even individual contributions from alumni can collectively make a significant impact on the institution.
Earlier, the Director of the Centre for International and Strategic Partnership (CISP), Prof. Lateef Onireti Ibraheem, described Dr Idiaro as a committed alumnus whose contributions continue to strengthen the international outlook of the University.
Prof. Onireti noted that the visiting scholar, who is also a beneficiary of the JICA ABE Initiative, has played a pivotal role in linking the University of Ilorin with the X-Culture programme.
The Director said through Dr Idiaro’s collaboration, students of the institution have gained access to international consulting opportunities and hands-on training, equipping them with practical skills and global perspectives.
