The Registrar of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Mr. Mansur Adeleke Alfanla, has declared that continuous staff development is essential to institutional growth, noting that organisations that neglect training inevitably stagnate.

According to him, knowledge acquired during the workshop should translate into improved efficiency, professionalism and quality service across the University.

“Let us all distinguish ourselves to move Unilorin forward. You are all agents and ambassadors of Unilorin. Anything you do really matters. Make use of what you gain here for the progress of the University,” Alfanla said.

Consequently, Alfanla urged the varsity’s staff to always apply the knowledge acquired from professional development programmes that would elevate them to the rank of worthy ambassadors of the institution.

Alfanla said the thorough application of the knowledge would enhance service delivery and strengthen the University’s reputation.

He gave the charge during the 2026 Learned Conference, a five-day capacity-building workshop organised by UNILORIN Holdings for non-teaching staff at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM), Idofian, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The conference, themed: “Advancing Excellence in University Administration, Governance, Operations and Service Delivery,” brought together participants from the Registry, University Health Services, Counselling and Human Development Centre, SIWES Unit, University Schools, Corporate Affairs, Works Department, Security Unit and COMSIT.

He urged participants to embrace every learning opportunity and avoid underestimating resource persons invited to share their expertise.

Earlier, the Acting Managing Director of UNILORIN Holdings, Prof. Bashir Raji, urged participants to actively engage in all sessions and interact meaningfully with facilitators to maximise the benefits of the conference.

He commended the security session as insightful and encouraged participants to implement the lessons learnt in their respective units.

He also requested honest feedback on both the quality of the lectures and the training environment to improve future editions.

The University’s Director of Security, Mr. Paul Ogidi, underscored the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding lives and property, insisting that security should not be left solely to security personnel.

He encouraged staff to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring them that the identities of informants would remain confidential.

Also speaking, the Director of University Health Services, Dr. Rasheed Odunola, reminded participants that good health remains indispensable to productivity.

He advised staff to prioritise regular medical screening, monitor their blood sugar levels and adopt healthy lifestyles, noting that no employee is indispensable, urging: “if you die, you will be replaced, so attend to your health. Health is wealth.”

Participants described the workshop as enriching and impactful.

Mrs. Olaoye Victoria Iyabo of the Registry, who serves as Secretary to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), described the programme as worthwhile and highly beneficial.

Dr. Ikmat Amoloye Omodesola of the University Health Services said the workshop exceeded her expectations, describing it as well-organised and rewarding.

Similarly, the Deputy Director of the Counselling and Human Development Centre, Dr. Aminullahi Salman Alawaye, said the conference provided participants with broader insight into the University’s operations.

The General Manager of UNILORIN FM, Mr. Idris Alooma also hailed the initiative, describing it as informative, enlightening, and professionally rewarding.