The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), has called on stakeholders and alumni to support two major initiatives aimed at advancing the institution’s academic and research capabilities.
Prof. Egbewole made the appeal on Wednesday during the Award of Excellence and Investiture of Distinguished Alumni and Unilorin Ambassadors, held in Ilorin as part of activities marking the university’s 50th anniversary.
He announced plans to unveil legacy projects including the Transcript Hub and Innovation Hub, while soliciting support for the development of a Techno and Industrial Park as well as a Centre for Stem Cell Research.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the newly appointed Unilorin Ambassadors were carefully selected by their faculties based on their loyalty, impact, and sustained contributions to the university’s growth.
Among the honorees were Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, a 1984 medical graduate, who sponsored 40 academic staff to attend international conferences with N5 million each, and donated both a Hilux vehicle and an Anatomage machine to the university.
Also recognised was Dr. Murthada Adeniji, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, who donated a 90KVA solar power system and a Hilux vehicle, significantly reducing the institution’s energy expenses.
Prof. Abdulrasheed Adeoye, Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 50th Anniversary, described the university as “a brand worth celebrating,” noting that Unilorin has grown from a local institution to one competing among global academic peers.
“Today, we are celebrating a brand that has produced global citizens—captains of industry, engineers, lawyers, artists, educationists, doctors, and more across 16 faculties,” he said.
Adeoye outlined the awards given during the event, including: Award of Excellence (2 recipients), Distinguished Alumni (10 recipients), Unilorin Ambassadors (50 recipients)
Future honourees, he said, will include graduates from the 1984 Medical class, 1992 Agriculture class, and 2002 Accounting and Finance class.
Delivering the keynote address titled “The Essence of Giving Back to the University: A Charge to Do More,” Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN) emphasised the moral responsibility of alumni to contribute to the continued success of their alma mater.
“Giving back is not just about material donations. It is an act of gratitude and legacy-building,” he said.
Ali added that such gestures reflect an acknowledgment of sacrifices made by earlier generations and a commitment to securing the future of the next.
(NAN)