Oyebanji commends OAU’s long- standing reputation for excellence

Members of the Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, recently paid a courtesy visit to Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti. The delegation was led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso.

Oyeweso described the governor ‘’as a visionary and staunch advocate of quality education.” He lauded his exemplary leadership style and highlighted the state’s historical ties to the university. He recalled the contributions of Ekiti State indigenes to the university’s academic foundation.

The governor thanked the members of Council and the university management for keeping the glory of the university alive and enjoined them not to lower the standard.

Oyeweso noted the historical connection between Ekiti State and the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to the effect that many of its founding fathers were from Ekiti State, including Akin Omoboriowo.

In recognition of these enduring ties, Oyeweso requested the support of the Ekiti State Government towards the construction of a 1500-seater lecture theatre at OAU, to be named the ‘Ekiti-Kete Lecture Theatre.’

In his response, Oyebanji warmly the OAU delegation and paid glowing tributes to the memory of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in whose honour the then University of Ife was renamed. He said the University’s pivotal role as a beacon of academic excellence, research, and national development, acknowledging its contributions to producing outstanding leaders across various sectors of society.

He commended OAU’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high academic standards and fostering innovation, which he noted has significantly shaped Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

In the delegation were the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. M. O. Babalola, Registrar, Mr. Karmadeen Bakare, University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) O. A. Fadehan, the Bursar, Mrs. O. I. Abogan and other distinguished members of Council, namely: Amb. Edwards Sarki, Barr. Joseph Abaagu, Hon. Wahab Owokoniran, Mr. Abubakar Kachallah, Dr. L. O. Kareem, Barr. Fred Aburu, Professor E. T. O. Babalola, Professor D. J. Oyedele, Professor A. O. Ayoka, Professor A. J. Farinde, Professor J. A. Ayinde and Dr. A. Ajao.