Encomiums as UNILORIN VC, Abdulkareem, wraps up tenure

A deluge of encomium climaxed the week-long celebration of the achievements of the 10th Vice-Chancellor, of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Sulyman Abdulkareem, who completed his five-year tenure on Friday.

Variously described as brilliant, honest, dedicated and a simple intellectual, Abdulkareem, a first-class chemical engineer, received accolades from the management of the university and well-wishers during the exit ceremony and public presentation of a compendium on their tenure and his achievements.

Speaking during the unveiling of the book entitled: “Prof Abdulkareem: Footprints of a Giant”, (VC UNILORIN 2017-2022), the author, Kunle Akogun, said the “book carefully chronicles the achievements of Abdulkareem during his five-year tenure.”

He said the book also itemised the several honours and laurels, that the multiple award-winning Professor of Chemical Engineering earned for himself and the university in the course of his stewardship.

Akogun, who is also the Director of Corporate Affairs Department of Unilorin, said the book project, known as the UNILORIN leadership series, began in 2017, with the first book on the tenure of the ninth Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali.

He congratulated Abdulkareem on the successful completion of his tenure, adding that the book was written in his honour.

“This book, conceived as a parting gift to the outgoing Vice-Chancellor from the Directorate of Corporate Affairs, will be a worthy and invaluable reference material.

“ It was especially those who are interested in having a bird’s eye view of the comprehensive story of the University of Ilorin, with particular reference to its specific strides between 2017 and 2022…”

“So many people, each in their various ways, have contributed to making this book project a reality. And I am greatly indebted to them all,” he said.

The President of Student Union Government of the university, Taofeek Omoluabi, extolled the vice-chancellor, adding he operated  “a no-door policy.”

Book reviewer, Dapo Olorunyomi, the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times, described Abdulkareem as a brilliant and versatile man right from his secondary school days.

He said the vice-chancellor was renowned for his consistency, which he noted, was central to his character.