The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Ilorin, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko, has charged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, and the graduating students to sustain the culture of excellence, innovation, and service that has defined the institution over the years.
Delivering his address at the 40th Convocation Ceremonies of the University, Aluko commended President Tinubu’s administration for its ongoing reforms in the education sector, while urging him to continue supporting tertiary institutions through sustained funding and policies that promote industrial harmony and research.
“Mr. President, Sir, your determination towards promoting industrial peace in our universities is not in doubt. We thank you for the approval of the ₦50 billion academic earned allowances and the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund,” he said.
He further applauded the President for strengthening the National Education Loans Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a transformative intervention for indigent students.
The Pro-Chancellor also lauded the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, for initiating curriculum reforms and promoting technical and vocational education, saying the efforts would enhance manpower development across Nigeria.
Turning to the Kwara State Governor, Aluko expressed appreciation for his administration’s commitment to security and urban renewal in the state, describing Ilorin as a “city of harmony.”
He, however, appealed to Governor AbdulRazaq to include the University’s main road from the Tanke overhead bridge in the ongoing urban renewal plan, noting that the institution remains a vital part of the state’s socio-economic landscape.
Addressing the University’s internal leadership, the Pro-Chancellor commended Vice Chancellor Professor Wahab Egbewole for fostering a conducive environment for learning and for his innovative strides that have brought the University closer to its vision of becoming one of the top 100 universities globally.
“The University of Ilorin is lucky to have Professor Egbewole at this moment. Under his leadership, the institution has achieved national recognition and even international acclaim, including a Guinness World Record feat by one of our graduates,” Aluko remarked.
Finally, the Pro-Chancellor delivered an inspiring message to the graduating students, charging them to be responsible ambassadors of the institution and to rise to the demands of the modern world.
“You belong to the Artificial Intelligence (AI) generation that requires sharp skills, broadened worldviews, and a positive attitude to succeed. You must not only hit the ground running; you must take off flying immediately,” he urged.
He reminded them that the University’s investment in their education comes with a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Aluko concluded by expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and stakeholders present, wishing everyone God’s protection and looking forward to the University’s 50th Anniversary celebrations scheduled for November this year.