OAU @ 65: University Wraps Up Grand Celebration with Awards, Donations, and Project Launches

OAU @ 65: UNIVERSITY WRAPS UP GRAND CELEBRATION WITH AWARDS, DONATIONS, AND PROJECT LAUNCHES

By Esther Oladapo

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, today, Monday, June 8, 2026 concluded its 65th anniversary celebration with a grand finale that marked the high point of a week-long series of commemorative events.

The event, which was held on a Monday at the Oduduwa hall, brought together alumni, students, staff, and dignitaries from across the soil of Nigeria in a colourful gathering that reflected the institution’s legacy, unity, and academic excellence. 

The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics, Professor Adesola Aderonmu, the 65th anniversary event's chairman, began with an opening remark, recognizing awardees and distinguished guests for their contributions to the university.

 He also announced the official Launch of President Bola Tinubu ₦10 billion Centre of Excellence in Intercultural Dialogue and Youth Empowerment, NITDA Innovation Hub, Ahmed Adeniji SAN medical centre as.well as the Foundation laying of Ultra modern 2,500 seaters OAU CBT centre, Otunba Reuben Famuyibo Family district resolution centre.

Meanwhile, Vice-Chancellor Professor Simeon Bamire expressed appreciation to dignitaries, alumni, staff, and students for honouring the institution’s 65th anniversary celebration. He also reaffirmed the commencement of projects earlier highlighted by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and commended the project sponsors for their financial contributions.

He further appreciated the Minister of Education, noting that he was not just a guest but a key partner actively supporting the future development of Great Ife.

Following, an alumnus of the institution and CEO of Chowdeck, Femi Aluko, who studied Electrical Engineering, expressed appreciation for the university’s role in shaping learning and culture.

A 30-minute documentary showcasing the historical background of the university since its inception was screened, narrated by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olanrewaju, whose voice added a distinguished tone to the presentation. 

Mr Abiodun explained that the documentary, produced when the current Vice-Chancellor was newly inaugurated, captures OAU's long-term aspirations and strategic vision for the future.

Moreover, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa represented by the Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Professor Adebowale Kayode gave a special lecture tagged “ OAU and the future of Nigerian Higher Education” where he highlighted the need for curriculum reforms, the integration of digital innovation, and the strengthening of global competitiveness for Nigerian universities.

The event was characterised by generous donations from alumni of the university, who reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the institution's academic excellence and learning environment.

Among the donors was Akin Ogunbiyi, an alumnus of the university and 2027 senatorial candidate for Osun West, who, alongside his wife, pledged a donation of ₦200 million to support the university's efforts in enhancing teaching, learning, and research facilities.

The grand finale took a transition as distinguished alumni of the institution were awarded in recognition of their contributions and lasting impact on Obafemi Awolowo University, marking their continued role in the university’s growth and development.

Notable among the distinguished awardees was Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, noted for graduating with a record 5.0 CGPA in Electrical/Electronics Engineering and for his contributions to academia and institutional development, including support for research advancement initiatives at the university.

The celebration of 65 years of excellence and enduring legacy continued with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, as university officials and dignitaries joined in marking the milestone.

The event's chairman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aderonmu, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to all who honoured the occasion and contributed to the successful celebration of the institution’s 65 years of impact.




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