Education

‘Big for something, not big for nothing’- Don Calls for National Renewal

By Web News 364

By Rotimi Famakin

The need for citizens and key stakeholders in every sector of Nigeria to live up to their responsibilities in order to make Nigeria a great nation formed the focus of the 595th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan.

The lecture which was delivered by a Professor of Public and Development Administration and Civil-Military Relations, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Dhikrullai Yagboyaju, x-rayed the corruption that has characterized past political dispensations and its effects on the country.

The lecture entitled “Big for Nothing: Nigeria’s Struggle with Paradox,” highlighted the early business sojourn of the lecturer, his academic encounter which wittnessed negative portrayal, disobedience to rules and corruption that manifested in all sector of the country.

Professor Yagboyaju, who explained that despite various seminars and conference attended within and outside Nigeria with themes targeting corruption and Nigeria, noted that the country has not attained it enviable status as a rich nation as it is being perceived despite the rich mineral resources at its disposal.

“Nigeria is the biggest trading nation the USA has in Africa. It is the fifth largest supplier of crude oil to the USA market. Yet it is in the same Nigeria that observers are confronted by the paradox of oil refineries that are coming back to life slowly after more than three decades on sick bed.”

“Also, there is a recently licenced privately owned refinery to support; rail, air and sea services that have performed abysmally for decades as well as roads, electricity and other physical infrastructure in sorry conditions; weak institutions, and for being one of the prominent world’s poorest countries, parading poor statistics as to the population of those who can access basic education, primary health services and other basic good things of life especially among ordinary citizens.”

He argued that while Nigeria as a nation was not the actual cause of its problems, leaders, followers, civil servants, security agencies and families were responsible for the current state of the country.

Professor Yagboyaju, who explained that the nation had been overwhelmed by numerous challenges leading to underperformance, noted that the electoral fraud and corruption that characterized the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, and lack of good governance had caused widespread decay in the nation’s infrastructure. He added that various institutions and families have vital roles to play in projecting Nigeria positively to the global community rather than portraying it in bad light.

While recommending equality of all before the law, purposeful leadership, adherence to regulations, and restoration of the value system, Professor Yagboyaju maintained that Nigeria could move from being a “big-for-nothing nation” to a “big-for-something nation.”

“An effective policing system, again from the family and community levels, must be formed up. There is hardly a truer or more accurate illustration than the Yoruba aphorism, Ile l’a ti nk’eso r’ode.

“There is hardly any country that has come out of its period of mess without adequate policing. China, Iran and Singapore among others, were in mess at different points in the not too long history of humanity.”

“The time for decisive and diligent action is now. There is no room for delay in realising the promise of a Nigeria that is not just “big” but one that is BIG for SOMETHING productive.”

Emeritus Professors Rasheed Aderinoye of Adult Education, Literacy and Open Distance Learning, Kamil Olosho of Arabic and Islamic Studies and the Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarinwa described the lecture as timely and an eye opener.

They called on all and sundry to work towards restoring the glory of Nigeria.

Education

UI VC Charges New Intakes on Discipline

By Web News 136

By Blessing Okareh

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale has charged newly matriculated students of the institution to embrace discipline and prioritise excellence.

He gave the charge in his matriculation speech to the new students at the Matriculation ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic session, which was held at the International Conference Centre of the institution in Ibadan.

Professor Adebowale noted that matriculation was not a mere ceremony but a rite of passage that symbolizes a formal admission into the university.

He urged the students to imbibe the habit of engaging in independent learning rather than being ‘spoon-fed’ like secondary school students.

The VC further admonished them to walk the path of excellence, which the University treasures. 

He disclosed that out of the 22,000 candidates who sought admission into the University of Ibadan, 4,650 were offered provisional admission, while only 4,215 were cleared to be students of the University.

Professor Adebowale charged the matriculants to be resilient, strive for distinction in their studies, character, and extra-curricular engagements, prioritise excellence, and embrace discipline.

In a Matriculation Lecture, an Alumnus of the University of Ibadan, Dr Olukayode Aiyenuyo encouraged the new students to also seek God for a true path in life in order to achieve success.

Highlight of the matriculation ceremony was the administration of the Matriculation Oath to the students by the Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Saliu. 

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Education

UI Alumni Launches Book in Memory of Tinuade Sangotade

By Web News 427

By Lillian Ibomor

A book titled “Understanding Medical School” in honour of the late unionist Tinuade Sangotade has been launched in Ibadan by the 2000 set of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association.

The chief launcher and visioner of the book Dr Micheal Koku said the book which is over one hundred pages was meant to celebrate the life of a great female unionist, who died in a road accident before their set graduated

Dr Micheal Koku noted that the launch of the book was also done alongside the birth of a foundation called “Tinuade Academy” where all proceeds from the book would be channelled into.

 According to him, “Tinuade, who happened to be the vice president then with my encouragement was not just a regular student, as her impact in the department would forever be remembered”.

President, Medical Women Association of Nigeria, MWAN Oyo State Chapter Dr Omowunmi Femi-Akinlosotu said the association collaborated with Dr Micheal Koku to bring the Leadership Academy to birth in honour of the late Tinuade Sangolade who was also in her set back then.

The book reviewer, who is a research Anthropologist in the Department of African Studies University of Ibadan Dr Oludare Oshiwoye said the book was a compendium of counsel for medical students on how to navigate and scale through all processes in the school.

According to him, nine students including the coordinator of the group Dr Micheal Koku all came together to write about how they were able to excel in school.

Father of the late unionist, Mr John Sangolade, who came alongside members of his family, said the launch of the book Understanding Medical School in honour of her daughter had erased all his sorrow in the past years.

According to Mr Sangolade, Tinade died alongside her three other siblings and her mother in a car accident twenty-two years ago along Ife Road.

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Energy

Low investment in energy sector dangerous for economy – Professor Adenikinju

By Web News 398

By Iyabo Adebisi

The President of the Nigerian Economic Society, NES, and expert in Petroleum Economics, Professor Adeola Adenikinju says low investment in the nation’s energy sector portends great danger for the economy of the country in the future.

The Professor of Petroleum Economics at the University of Ibadan, UI, lamented that divestment by international oil companies, IOCs, is taking a toll on the economy of the country.

The former Director of the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law, CPEEL, UI, stated this in an interview with journalists in Ibadan. 

He said vandalism, oil theft and other challenges were hampering the sector’s contribution to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Professor Adenikinju who is a member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN) stated further that Nigeria was losing a lot of money, adding that from the last four quarters, the oil sector has been contributing negatively to Nigerian economic growth.

He said: “You have to break the issue in the oil sector down. At the off-stream where you do production, until recently, there has been a lot of volatility. There was a time when we were doing one million barrels per day because of security, pipeline vandalism, oil theft and so many challenges that were going on in the sector.

“Nigeria was losing a lot of money. In fact, from the last four quarters, the oil sector has been contributing negatively to Nigerian economic growth.”

“The oil GDP has been negative and as I have mentioned in some other meetings, we should not normalize that. We shouldn’t accept that. That’s not the way to diversify the oil sector; it is not by losing money. It is caused by the oil sector growing. So, we need to address that.

“There is also something like divestment in the sector, the multinational oil companies are not investing much again, either because of the challenges of some of them trying to move away from hydrocarbons to other energies that are greener or because of some of the security challenges that they have and maybe because of the fiscal system that we have. So, we don’t have enough investment. Investors are not coming into the sector and in fact, we may not have the full effects until later, because when you do investment, it takes years before that translates into production.”

“So, the low investment that we are having now, we may not start to see the impact until much later when the existing production fields start declining and we are not able to replace and expand what we are doing.”

“So, we have those kinds of challenges and the unfortunate thing is that when we shut in or shut down or not producing enough oil, that also affects gas, because most of the gas we produce in Nigeria is associated gas, in fact, for some time, NLNG was not able to meet the quota of gas because the oil sector is not producing the required quantity and that was affecting the amount of gas that was available for the NLNG’’.

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Education

UI’s 3-Day Workshop Addresses Entrepreneurship Gaps in Nigeria 

By Web News 371

By Rotimi Famakin

Addressing the gaps between theory and contemporary entrepreneurship, the need for curriculum review and ways of becoming exceptional entrepreneurs in Nigeria took centre stage at a three-day entrepreneurship capacity strengthening in Ibadan.

The three-day workshop organized by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, University of Ibadan is currently ongoing at the Subomi Hall, University of Ibadan.

In his presentation entitled: “Contemporary Entrepreneurship: Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practical”, a lecturer at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, Ondo State, Dr Dayo Oladebeye said there is the need for captains of industries to consider the theoretical aspect of their field so as to meet the demands of the contemporary economy.

While identifying innovation and technology, socio-economic and digital knowledge and skill development as key elements in contemporary entrepreneurship, Dr Oladebeye said entrepreneurship in Nigeria has a number of challenges.

Some of the challenges according to him include limited access to finance, poor infrastructure, high cost of doing business, limited access to the market, lack of skilled labour, insecurity and lack of supportive policies.

Dr Oladebeye, who is also a former Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti suggested designing an education curriculum, industry partnerships, establishing an Entrepreneurship and incubator centre, and encouraging learning and professional development as ways of overcoming the challenges.

In her paper entitled: “Oiling the Wheel of Entrepreneurship for National Competitiveness through Knowledge-based and Digital-driven Economy”, the Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Professor Oyedunni Arulogun said entrepreneurship education plays a multifaceted and transformative role as it contributes to economic growth.

Professor Arulogun who said Nigeria is currently knowledge and information overload, however, feared the menace of inaccurate data, and loss of social, and professionalism.

Professor Arulogun who suggested feedback from stakeholders in the education sector, policy advocacy and institutional support, emphasized the need for mentorship, building a network of partnerships with the alumni body, and self-development to remain relevant and holistic development of students for a better future.

At an interactive session, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abdul Waheed Soliu said every individual can become an entrepreneur thanks to the growing technology.

He said the mindset of current students should change towards patriotism.

Professor Soliu noted that the state government had equipped the state university with requisite facilities aimed at enhancing entrepreneurship and skill development of students.

The workshop also provided an avenue for representatives of tertiary institutions that incorporate entrepreneurship and Innovation into their curriculum to narrate experiences and raise observations and questions on critical issues affecting entrepreneurship drive in their various schools.

Our correspondent reports apart from deliberations on poor policy implementation by the government, the growing unemployment occasioned by unskilled graduates, gender-based violence, travelling abroad syndrome and attitudinal change were some of the salient issues discussed at the workshop.

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Economy

World Bank Advises Nigeria to Sustain Fuel Subsidy Removal

By Web News 773

By Olaolu Fawole

The World Bank has advised the federal government on the need to ensure accountability in the disbursement of proceeds from the fuel subsidy removal.

Country Director, World Bank, Nigeria Office, Professor Shubham Chaudhuri, said this in Ibadan at a Symposium on “Economic Opportunity Pathways to Navigating Post-reform Challenges in Nigeria”.

He stated that Nigerians must benefit from the proceeds through various poverty alleviation programmes such as cash transfer scheme, provision of Mass transit buses, assistance to farmers and free education, while the federal government should sustain the removal of the fuel subsidy and also curb commercial malpractices.

Professor Chaudhuri enjoined state governments that have benefitted from the World Bank projects like NG-CARES programme, to complement the federal government in the post subsidy removal regime.

On the issue of rising inflation in the country, Professor Chaudhuri advised the President Bola Tinubu led administration to end borrowing from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN and create more friendly environment for private investments to thrive.

Also speaking, Director General, Nigeria Institute of Social and Economic Research, NISER, Professor Anthonia Simbine, reiterated the need for the nation’s economy to be diversified in a genuine and value adding ways.

In a message to the programme, Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, who spoke through the Dean, Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Professor Olanrewaju Olaniyan, pointed out that the University would continue to embark on researches on ways to navigate Post reforms era in Nigeria.

Other speakers at the Symposium while appealing to Nigerians to exercise more patient as a result of the effects of the fuel subsidy removal, equally called on governments to ensure upward review of workers salaries and also improve the security situation of the country.

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Crime

U.I Don in Abductors Den

By Web News 813

A Political Science lecturer at the University of Ibadan, Professor Adigun Agbaje has been kidnapped.

The don was among travellers kidnapped on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at the weekend, as his Kidnappers were demanding 50 Million Naira ransom.

According to report, Professor Agbaje was kidnapped at the Dominion University area on the Lagos Ibadan Expressway.

Nafiu Busari

Lifestyle

Family, Friends Celebrate Life of Late Emeritus Prof. Awoniyi

By Web News 1080

There is a time to be born and a time to die.
This was a submission of the Pastor in charge, Baptist Church, Ibadan, Reverend Segun Jayesinmi at the commendation service of the late Emeritus Professor Timothy Adedeji Awoniyi.

Reverend Jayesinmi said the deceased was full of revelation and a family man to the core.

Talking on the topic “departing in peace: A challenge to the living”, Revd Jayesinmi said the deceased was always right standing with God and committed to the service of humanity.

The first child of Late Emeritus Professor Awoniyi, Mr Oluwarotimi Awoniyi, described his father as a lover of children who always emphasized the importance of prayer and commitment to the service of God.

Also speaking, two daughters of the deceased, Mrs Taiwo Ogundele and Kehinde Opatunji described their father as a foremost education is who lived a disciplined and godly life.

Highlight of the event, testimonies about the deceased, and choreography.

Dignitaries at the commendation service include the zonal director, FRCN, Ibadan, Mrs Bolatito Joseph, and the people from far and wide.

Emeritus Professor Timothy Adedeji Awoniyi who died at the age of 83 is survived by wife, children, grandchildren including: Rotimi Awoniyi, Taiwo Ogundele, Kehinde Opatunji of the FRCN, Gold FM Ilesa, and Bisi Fawehinmi.

Taiwo Akinola

Education

ASUU Strike: UI Students Unrelenting, Block Roads

By Web News 607

Students of the University of Ibadan have continued their protest with the blockage of the Sango-Ojoo, Bodija road axis.
 

The students were protesting the unresolved issues between the Academic Staff Union of universities, ASUU, and the Federal Government leading to the closure of federal universities in the country three months ago.
 

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, one of the leaders of the protesting student, a 200 Level student in the Department of Sociology, Mr. Solomon Emiola, said Federal Government has shown a lackadaisical attitude towards the demands of their lecturers, saying the strike had affected their study duration in the university.

“We are tired. We have stayed at home for over three months at home doing nothing. We are tired of this protracted ASUU strike that has gone on for over 85 days. we are doing nothing at home”

Mr. Emiola said various avenues for peaceful dialogue had been engaged with Federal Government in a bid toward finding an amicable resolution to the crises.

 He said the protest would be sustained until the demands of the striking lecturers were met.

The protest almost turned violent yesterday when a military van arrived at the scene and forced its way through the protesters.

The blockage of the highway by the student had not only led to many passengers being stranded but also built heavy traffic within Orogun and Agbowo communities as motorists explored alternative routes within the neigbouring communities

Rotimi Famakin

Education

Activities Grounded in UI as Strike by Unions Bites Hard

By Web News 712

 Following another two weeks warning strike announced by members of Nonacademic Staff Union, NASU and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian University, SSANU, commercial activities in University of Ibadan have been grounded. 

Radio Nigeria’s correspondent, who monitored the situation, reports low turn-out of students at the commercial motor park at the institution’s main gate with long queue of vehicles and trycles parked with no passengers boarding them.

Trading activities within the campus were also at a very low ebb.

Lamenting the low patronage, Chairman, Campus Cab and Trycyles Operators, University of Ibadan Council, Mr Temitope Joseph, said the warning strike had affected their daily income.

Speaking on the strike, the Chairman, Joint Action Committee, JAC, an umbrella body of NASU and SSANU, University of Ibadan chapter, Mr Abiodun Omisore said the strike was called following failure of the Federal government to renegotiate 2009 memorandum of understanding, usurpation of some positions, failure to pay minimum wage arrears and failure of government to reposition e Nigerian universities to be at par with their counterparts in the developed world.

Speaking in the same vein, Chairman, Nigerian Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, Mr Paul Yahayah said laboratories on the campus as well as other equipment that required regular calibrations and workshops had been locked due to failure of government to honour the 2009 memorandum of understanding and memorandum of agreement.

Mr Yahayah said since the commencement of the strike, government had not reached out to them, adding that disposition of government to their demands would further determine their next line of action.

Rotimi Famakin

Health

Covid 19 Jab Not Inimical To Human Health – UI VC Tells Students

By Web News 1107

The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, has told all students in the institution to go and receive the Covid-19 vaccination describing it as safe and not inimical to human health.

He emphasized the need for all students to take it seriously as there is no need for any student to be seen or tagged as a risk to other students and staff who might have complied.

The VC made this call when he received the leadership of the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ), University of Ibadan, in his office on Friday.

Prof. Adebowale disclosed that “as from the next academic session, evidence of vaccination will be an additional prerequisite in securing a bed space in any of the halls of residence on campus.”

“No vaccination, no accommodation”, the VC declared.

While charging the executive committee of the UCJ to lead by example, Prof. Adebowale tasked them to use their media platforms to demystify the misconceptions about the Covid-19 vaccination in the mind of the students, persuading them to visit the appropriate link to generate the code for the vaccination.  

The VC, in response to the request made by the UCJ, informed them of steps taken at improving the security situation on campus and its environs through collaboration with the appropriate security outfits.

He urged them to feel at home with his administration and promised to look into other observations raised with a bid to resolve them.

Earlier in his address, the leader of the team and President, UCJ, Mr. IbukunOluwa Dada congratulated the VC on his appointment as the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the University and prayed to God for a successful tenure.

The President used the occasion to intimate the VC on some pressing issues affecting the welfare of the students as well as the need to improve the communication link between the management and the students.

Other members of the UCJ team included Vice-President (Administration), Mr. Phil Aniemeke; Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Oluwatobi Odeyinka; Public Relations Officer 1, Miss Adedoja Adewale and the Assistant General Secretary, Miss Raimat Lawal.

Present at the event were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Ezekiel Olusola Ayoola; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Aderonke Baiyeroju; Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships), Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose; Dean of Students, Prof. Keye Abiona, and the Director, Directorate of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo
 

Adewumi Faniran

Education

UI Raises Alarm Over Impersonation Of VC Designate

By Web News 802

The attention of the Management has been drawn to the dubious impersonation of Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, FAS, mni, the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.

Information has reached the Vice-Chancellor designate of the premier University that a dubious person has created a Facebook page with Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, being used to soliciting favors in his name.

The dubious person also created an Instagram account in which several people were added.

These are in addition to the use of a particular telephone number identified as +2347065664894 attached to his name by the questionable individual.

The person has been calling and inviting people, masquerading as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan with the photograph of Professor Adebowale.

Prof. Adebowale wishes to categorically inform the University community and the general public that he has not assigned anyone with such an engagement, meeting, and appointment.

He is yet to resume office and has not been mandated to act as the Vice-Chancellor.

He, therefore, dissociates himself from this heinous impersonation and advises the public not to fall prey to any such
invitation.

Thank you.

MANAGEMENT

Education

NASC partners UI to train staff on Quality Seed Production

By Web News 1119

National Agricultural Seed Council, (NASC) in conjunction with the Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan has begun a -week training of staff of the Council towards enhancing quality seeds production in Nigeria.

The training being held at the University of Ibadan focused on seed research methodology, data analysis and reporting.

Speaking at the formal opening of the programme, the NASC Director-General, Dr Olusegun Ojo, said the training was to ensure production of improved quality seeds which is one of the mandates of the agency.

Dr Ojo who was represented by the Director of Seed Coordination and Management Services in the Council, Dr Jimmy Zidafamor, said the training would strengthen collaboration with other agencies to provide quality seeds to farmers.

“We want to equip the staff more as well as deepen their knowledge on seed research, methodology and data analysis so that they can go back to do the needful on the field.

“We are responsible for the regulation and coordination of seed industry. We have the seed components and take research on seeds very seriously because without seeds there will be no crop to protect.

“We have a crop of staff, green hands, to be trained and we have been able to set up our research works with the trainings,” he said.

Also speaking, the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, UI, Professor Stella Odebode emphasised the importance of seeds, saying that without them the country would not be food secured.

“It’s with the seed multiplication that we can produce adequate food for the populace and export. This training is apt because it will impact positively on farmers and agriculture sector in general.”

Also, the Director of Research Management Office, UI, Professor Ayodele Jegede said any nation that does not focus on research would be far away from development.

According to Professor Jegede, it’s unethical for one to collect data without analysing and reporting it to disseminate the information.

“When your data is of no quality it will automatically affect the quality of data you are going to produce, so the basis of your report should depend on the quality of your data analysis.

“Researchers need to always check their data and do literature review which is very critical in carrying effective research.”

Earlier, the Head of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology of the University, Professor Rasheed Awodoyin said the training is the third of its kind since 2017.

“The first one was held in 2017, second one in 2019 and this is the third, I’m optimistic that the success we will record in this one will supercede others.”

“Crop protection starts from production, provision of quality seeds, our department will continue to support the NASC in its mandate.”

Similarly, the workshop facilitator, Dr Morufat Balogun noted that Nigeria is at the forefront in terms of seed production, research and improvement.

Dr Balogun commended the NASC for always being in motion, especially in the aspect of training its staff.

She added that the training is loaded with worthy resource persons and “there will also be feedback from participants at the end, of which we will work with later.”

Ridwan Fasasi

Education

UI Gets New Bursar

By Web News 972

The Governing Council of the University of Ibadan has appointed Mr. Adewuyi Popoola as the new Bursar.

In a statement by the University’s Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, made available to journalists, he said the appointment takes effect from Monday, 20 September 2021.

According to him: “Mr. Popoola was born on 7 March, 1964 in Ilora, Afijio Local Government Area, Oyo State Nigeria. After elementary education, he had his secondary school education at Ilora Baptist Grammar School, Ilora, Oyo State between 1975 and 1981.”

“The new Bursar holds Higher National Diploma (Accounting) from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Bachelor of Science (Accounting), in the First Class Division, from the Lead City University, Ibadan and the degree of Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Ibadan.”

“Mr. Popoola ‘s professional expertise has earned him honours and recognitions. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (ACTI).”

“An adroit manager of men and resources, the new Bursar, after a stint in private organisations as Accountant and Audit Manager joined the services of the University of Ibadan in 2000 as a Senior Accountant (Pension Office). Through the dint of hard work, he rose by merit to the position of Principal Accountant in 2005 and Chief Accountant in 2009. He was appointed the Deputy Bursar, Postgraduate School (now Postgraduate College) in 2014, Deputy Bursar (Finance) 2017, and the Deputy Bursar (Administration) 2019, a position he occupied till his new appointment.”

“He attended many local and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. Suffice it to mention the International Executive Training on Management Leadership at IMSIMBI Training Centre Johannesburg, South Africa, which he attended in 2016, among others.”

“The new Bursar is married and the union is blessed with wonderful children.”

Mr. Popoola has since assumed duty, the statement added.

Adewumi Faniran

Lifestyle

Prof. Ekanola Celebrates Sultan Of Sokoto At 65

By Web News 1096

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, UI, Professor Adebola Babatunde Ekanola, has congratulated His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his memorable 65th birthday.

In a statement by the University’s Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, the Acting VC described the leader of the Ummah in Nigeria and Co-Chairman of Nigeria’s Inter-Religious Council as a diligent, selfless, peaceful, friendly, amicable, thoughtful leader and father who continues to use his royal position, not for any personal gain, but for service to the Almighty God and humanity.

Professor Ekanola said the chancellor’s leadership in the University of Ibadan is admirable, sterling and continues to guarantee a continuing relationship between him and the premier institution in Nigeria.

The Ag.VC affirmed further that “the efforts His Eminence put forth to deliver high-quality benefaction to the University is commendable”.

“The entire University of Ibadan community values His Eminence and all he does for our institutional progress.” 

“The dedication and hard work of His Eminence in peace advocacy and conflicts resolution, and his ability to take every task with utmost sincerity is very impressive and highly inspirational to many. He is indeed a worthy national leader and father.”

“The University of Ibadan is blessed to have His Eminence as its leader at this critical period in the life of our University.”

Prof. Ekanola noted that the Chancellor’s record of service and influence in the university and Nigeria remains strong and enduring.

“On behalf of Council, Senate, Congregation, Management, staff and students of the first and the best university in the country, the University of Ibadan, I convey my heartiest best wishes to our highly esteemed Chancellor”, the Acting VC said.

Oluremi Olugbenro

Religion

Eid-El-Kabir: UI’s Acting VC, Sends Goodwill Message To Muslims

By Web News 813

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Adebola Babatunde Ekanola, has felicitated with the Muslims in the University and other Nigerians on this year’s Eid-el- Kabir celebration.
In a statement signed by the University’s Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, the Acting Vice-Chancellor lauded the Muslims in the University for using their faith to promote love and harmony in the institution.
“I must commend Muslims in the University for their continuous contributions to the
development of the institution and peaceful co-existence with their neighbours as
well as people of other religious persuasions.”
The Acting VC further urged Muslims not to lose sight of the lessons of the Eid￾El-Kabir Festival, saying “beyond the sacrifice, we should not relent in praying for peace, unity and religious tolerance, which are essential to sustaining the glory of our dear nation.”

Oluremi Olugbenro

Lifestyle

Kaduna Military Plane Crash: UI Mourns Death of Post Graduate Student, Brig.General Olayinka

By Web News 816

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Adebola Babatunde Ekanola, has commiserated with the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, family, friends, associates and other Nigerians on the death of the Late Provost Marshall of the Nigerian Army, Brig. General Olatunji Luqman Olayinka, who died with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Late Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, and other nine gallant officers in the ill-fated military plane crash in Kaduna, on Friday.

Late Brigadier General Olayinka, 51, who hailed from Ikorodu, Lagos State, was a MPhil/PhD student in the Department of Peace, Security and Humanitarian Studies, Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies, University of Ibadan.

A statement by the University’s Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, quoted the Acting VC as describing the late Brig. General Olayinka, as a highly cerebral, diligent, disciplined and focused officer, who was interested in using strategic studies to address security challenges in Nigeria.

Prof. Ekanola offered prayers and sympathies to the security family in Nigeria, saying the death of the fallen gallant officers was a huge loss to Nigeria.

“Brig. General Olayinka and others laid their lives for peace, security and unity of Nigeria. They would be remembered for their contributions to making Nigeria better than they met it. Today, this grief has touched us all. We must share the pain together. This loss is just as much ours.”

“It is from dust that we come and to the dust we shall return. His death is a great loss to his family, Nigerian Army, University of Ibadan and the country generally.”

“On behalf of Council, Senate, Congregation, Management, Staff and Students of the University of Ibadan, I condole the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria and Visitor to the University of Ibadan, family and good people of Nigeria on this unfortunate incident. May God rest their souls in peace. Amen.”,

Meanwhile, the University of Ibadan Flag will complement the National Flag of Nigeria to be flown at half-mast on the campus for three days beginning from Monday, May 24, 2021 till Wednesday to honour the departed souls as ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Signed
Olatunji Oladejo
Director of Public Communication
University of Ibadan
Sunday, 23 May, 2021

Education

Profile of New UI Pro-Chancellor, John Odigie-Oyegun

By Web News 3159

Chief John Evboyomwan Kenneth Odigie-Oyegun was born on 12 August, 1939 into the family of Pa Daniel Osagiede Odigie-Oyegun, MBE and Mrs. Shaka Elizabeth Oyegun, nee Amurun.

He was admitted to the University College, Ibadan in 1960 and bagged a Bachelor of Science, (Hons) in Economics in 1963.

He was a resident of Kuti Hall where he served as the Hall Secretary.

Postgraduate institutions attended by this distinguished Nigerian include: United Nations Economic Development and Planning Institute, (IDEP) Dakar, Senegal between 1966 and 1967 where he was the only participant that earned his Postgraduate Diploma at merit level; and the Economic Development Institute of the World Bank, Washington DC, USA in 1970.

He joined the Federal Civil Service in 1963, worked in various capacities and at different levels and was appointed a Federal Permanent Secretary in 1975 at the age of 36.

In this capacity, he served Cabinet Office, Ministry of Science and Technology, 1982 -1983; Ministry of Internal Affairs, from February to September 1984; and Ministry of Commerce and Industry, from September 1984 to December 1985.

By retirement in December 1985, he had put in a total of twenty-two years in the Federal Public Service, nine of which was as Permanent Secretary.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun, at various times, served in the Board of many public, private and international entities.

Some of these include the defunct Nigeria Airways, Nigerian National Shipping Line, Nigerian Ports Authority, Regency Paints Ltd, Editorial Board of Guardian Newspapers etc.

He was also a member of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) and also represented Nigeria on the Board of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

With his wealth of planning and management experience, in 1989 he ventured into politics in which he made a significant success against all odds.

In 1991, he contested and won on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and became the first Executive Governor of Edo State in January 1992.

He has since remained a principled yet prime actor on the Nigerian political stage.

A man of steadfast principle, courage and conviction, he sacrificed all to play a key role in the crisis that followed the aborted and now historic June 12 elections of 1992 and the crisis that followed.

A staunch member of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Chief Odigie-Oyegun paid a steep price when he was forced into exile where he emerged as the Executive Secretary to the NADECO-Abroad.

Along with the likes of Chief Anthony Enahoro, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Professor Wole Soyinka among many others, he waged a relentless struggle for a permanent end to military rule and the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun was the Deputy National Chairman, (South) All Nigeria Peoples Party.

He was also the Vice-Presidential candidate of the party and later member of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

He was a Foundation member of and First National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

An Industrialist and businessman, he is Chairman of many companies including Teletok Nigeria Ltd, Lagos and Imperial Woodwork Industries Limited, Benin City, Edo State.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun belongs to several professional and social clubs including the Metropolitan Club, Lagos.

He was a past President of Rotary Club of Ikoyi.

He is a member of Nigerian Economic Society (MNES); a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM); a life Trustee of the Benin Club.

He is a life sustaining member of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association and a very active member of the Benin Branch.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun got married to Mrs. Victoria Nkosenyem Oyegun (nee Ugbode) in 1965 and the marriage is blessed with adorable children.

He succeeds Nde Waklek Joshua Mutka, mni, whose tenure ended on 18 April, 2021.

Directorate of Public Communication, Office of the Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan.

Judiciary

NICN Judge Charge UI Management, Ex-Lecturer On Amicable Dispute Resolution

By Web News 783

Justice John Peter of an Ibadan Division of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, NICN, has expressed disappointment over the attitude of the parties in an eight million naira damage suit filed by an ex-lecturer at the University of Ibadan, UI, Professor Adenike Ogunshe, over alleged unlawful termination of her appointment.

Professor Ogunshe formerly of the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, had dragged the institution and its council to the court and demanded for 8 million naira as damage against the institution, saying due process was not followed.

At the last hearing, the parties expressed readiness to settle the case out of court.

However at the resumed hearing of the suit on Wednesday, Counsel to the University of Ibadan, Mr Adebayo Ajayi, informed the court that he had communicated to the institution management on December 14, 2020 directive of the court to settle the matter out of court.

Mr Ajayi, who was in company of retired Professor Oluwole Osunubi and Professor Ishola Fashidi, who were appointed by the institution to oversee the settlement, said he was unable to get the cooperation of the claimant’s counsel.

Justice John Peter later called the two professors to brief the court on what they noticed why trying to settle the matter.

Professors Osunubi and Fashidi informed the court that they discovered that the UI Department of Microbiology where the claimant used to work was not willing to take back the claimant when consulted.

The professors said the department wanted the claimant to apologise and repent before they could take her back.

The claimant’s counsel, Mr Femi Aborisade, told the court that there was an indication that the defendants were not willing to settle the matter amicably but to delay the matter unnecessarily.

Mr Aborisade said the institution being the employer did not need to consult Microbiology Department on their decision on the settlement, if they were serious with it.

He noted that the University of Ibadan ought to take a decision on the settlement and not the Microbiology department and urged the court to allow him move his application for adoption of final written address.

Justice John Peters said it was wrong for Microbiology department to insist on not taking the claimant back, adding that they are all employees and no law allows employees to dictate to the employer.

Justice Peters said there was the need for the parties to tolerate one another, adding that life was about shifting grounds.

He appealed to counsel to find way to resolve this matter amicably, saying “Section 20 of the National Industrial Court Act encouraged reconciliation and amicable settlement of matters.”

The judge then adjourned the matter till April 5 for adoption of final addresses.

Sunday Ogunyemi

Lifestyle

Academic Community In UI Reacts To Death Of Prof. Soola

By Web News 1354

Members of the Academic Community in the Department of Communication and Language Arts, University of Ibadan have reacted to the death of Professor of Development Communication in the Department, Ebenezer Oludayo Soola.

Reacting, a Professor of Applied Communication in the Communication  and Language Arts Department, Ayobami Ojebode said late Professor Ebenezer Soola was a lecturer in the Department with the highest of Doctoral Graduates he successfully supervised.

A clerical officer in the department, Mr Shittu Akintunde said Professor Soola was a peaceful man who was diligent and humane

Speaking in the same vein,  Head of Department, Communication and Language, Professor Oyeyinka Oyewo said late professor Soola was among the scholars who revived African Council for Communication Education  (ACCE), Nigeria chapter in the late 1990s.

Professor Oyewo explained that Professor Soola supervised his doctoral thesis and would be missed for communication skills in business and organizational communication and intellectual contributions to the academic community

Until his death on 27th  of February this year, Professor Soola who had held the position of head of the Department of Communication and Language Arts was former national coordinating secretary of ACCE before becoming the association’s national coordinator in 2004.

Rotimi Famakin

Education

UI Insists On Online Lecture For First Semester

By Web News 598

UI: Resumption Of Academic Activities

Following the release of the academic calendar for the 2020/2021 session, the Senate of the University of Ibadan, at its meeting, held on Monday, 22 February, 2021 reiterated its earlier decision that lectures for the first semester of the 2020/2021 academic session will only be delivered ONLINE .

Consequent upon the above, students are NOT
expected to be on campus until the second semester.

Parents and guardians should kindly note.

Thank you.

MANAGEMENT

Lifestyle

Educationists Pay Tribute To Late Professor Obe

By Web News 759

People from the academia have described the late pro chancellor, first Technical University Ibadan, and former VC University of Lagos, Professor Oye Ibidapo Obe as an educationist who had given his best to the growth of the education sector.

They made this known at a day of tributes organised in his honour, held at the technical University, Ibadan.

Two former vice chancellors, University of Ibadan, Professor Idowu Olayinka and Professor Olufemi Bamiro said late Ibidapo -Obe who became a professor at the age of thirty three, had served passionately in different capacities, especially in the area of giving  framework to education.

In a goodwill message, Oyo state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, represented by the commissioner for education, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye appreciated the late professor and his family for accepting to serve the state.

Wife of late Professor, Oye Ibidapo Obe, Olusola, said her husband will be missed for his companionship.

Cue in

Cue out.

Earlier, Vice Chancellor, first Technical University, Ibadan, Professor Ayobami Salami enjoined other scholars in the country to emulate Professor Ibidapo-Obe who approached his profession as a service, and gave it his all in dedication, innovative thinking and sacrifice.

Professor Oye Ibidapo Obe who was a professor of systems engineering, died from Covid-19 health complications on 3rd January 2021 at the age of  72.

Mosope Kehinde

Health

Govt. Should Embrace Health-o-Cracy to Reduce Stroke- Prof. Owolabi

By Web News 749

Professor Mayowa Owolabi, a stroke medicine expert says health-o-cracy will reduce the burden of stroke in Nigeria and the African continent.

Owolabi made the call while delivering the 473rd inaugural lecture of the University of Ibadan entitled: Exploring the quadrangle through the transonomics and spiritual binoculars: Two wings of an eagle.

Prof. Owolabi, who defined the concept of health-o-cracy as health of the people for the people by the people, said the concept would empower every individual to monitor and screen for cardiovascular risk factors particularly hypertension.

He advised Government at all levels to mandate screening, treatment and control of hypertension to reduce the burden of stroke in Nigeria saying, stroke was the second leading cause of death globally hence the need for urgent action.

He noted that topmost risk factors for stroke were hypertension, regular meat consumption, potbelly, diabetes mellytus, cardiac disease, cigarette smoking among others.

Professor Owolabi who’s the Regional Vice President, World Federation of NeuroRehabilitation recommended that regular blood pressure and cholesterol check should be made compulsory for Nigerians to enhance improved surveillance, prevention, care and rehabilitation in stroke medicine.

Professor Owolabi who argued that the spiritual sphere was essential for the quality of life and meaningful rehabilitation of stroke survivors said research were ongoing to incorporate spirituality in medicine.

“The concept of spirituality is increasingly gaining ground in medicine. The doctor is not complete without his doctrines” he added

In his address, Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Adebola Ekanola commended the Lecturer for the research and gave the assurance that the premier university would continue to produce problem solving research works.

Dayo Adu

Education

SSANU, NASU, Shut Down UI Over Alleged Imposition Of VC

By Web News 1192

Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities, SSANU and Non-Academic Staff of Union, NASU, University of Ibadan Chapter have shut down all activities in the institution in protest against the alleged plot to impose a vice-chancellor on them.

The members of the associations in their numbers locked up the main entrance of the institution, shut all doors and put out electricity.

Justifying the action, Chairman, SSANU, Mr Wale Akinremi alleged that the vice-chancellor, Professor Idowu Olayinka and his team were determined to manipulate the process of selecting a new vice chancellor for personal gains.

He said the unions had written petitions to the university council since about two years ago and had not gotten any response till date.

Mr Akinremi said the unions were convinced that the process was corrupt, hence the need for the protest.

On his part, Chairman, College of Medicine, NASU, Mr Akinlade Akinlolu said the protest was to repel oppression and imposition.

He said the unions would not sheath its sword until all the election processes were started afresh.

As at the time of filing this report, the senate and council members were still in the Senate Building while the protesters in their numbers besieged the entrance.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the senate had been in the building since around eight am while power supply to the build had been switched off.

Adedayo Adelowo

Education

Screening for Placement into JSS 1 Holds in Ibadan

By Web News 1564

Screening test for placement of pupils in terminal classes in public and private primary schools into Junior Secondary School 1 in Oyo State earlier shifted has commenced in Ibadan.

Our correspondent, who monitored the exercise in some public schools in Ibadan, reports that the students who were from public and private primary schools with different uniforms were accompanied by their teachers and parents to their examination centres

At Oluana/Akingbile Community Grammar School, Moniya, Emmanuel College Primary School, UI and Community Grammar School, Shasha, names of pupils were called while teachers from each school ensured their students put on their nose mask.

In an interview, a teacher from Shepherd Success Academy, Mr Ebnezer Douglas-Iniobong said his students had been taught adequately to ensure they come out in flying colour.

Some students who spoke with Radio Nigeria said they were well prepared for the exam saying adequate revision had been made

Aside late commencement of the examination, Radio Nigeria also observed that physical distancing, washing of hands and other safety protocols were not observed except wearing of mask.

Rotimi Famakin