Unilorin's Renaissance: Prof Egbewole's Visionary Leap from 'Better by Far' to 'Best By Far'

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By Idris Alooma


    

In a bold and audacious move, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, has rebranded the institution from the hitherto 'Better by Far' mantra to 'Best By Far', marking a new era of excellence and greatness. This rebranding exercise is not just a mere change of name, it is a reflection of University's relentless pursuit of excellence and its unwavering commment to greatness.


As Prof. Egbewole, a renowned scholar, administrator, and a distinguished lawyer who rose to the esteemed rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), assume the helm of the university, he has brought with him a wealth of experience, vision, and leadership acumen. His illustrious career, spanning over three decades, is a testament to his greatness. From a young lecturer to a Professor, from Secretary ASUU to Chairman, from Dean and Director, General Studies Division (GSD) to Vice Chancellor, and from Vice Chancellor to Africa Vice President of all Vice Chancellors, Prof. Egbewole has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead, to innovate, and to excel.

    

The recent 50th Anniversary celebrations of the University, themed "Sustaining Excellence: The University of Ilorin Experience", was a grand success, with a lineup of high-profile events, quality speakers, and impactful engagements. The anniversary celebrations, which kicked off with an 50 voice countdown by Unilorin FM radio station, was a testament to the university's commitment to excellence. The events, which included a medical screening by faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, a walk round the town, and a grand style publicity of UNILORIN FM radio station and Unilorin Bulletin, showcased the university's resolve to make an impact.


During the anniversary press briefing, Prof. Egbewole strategically unveiled the new mantra, "Best By Far", as the university's guiding principle for the next 50 years.


The anniversary celebrations were marked by several notable events, including the unveiling of a 50 billion naira endowment fund, aimed at supporting students' centered projects and initiatives. The fund raising, which was beautifully anchored by Emeritus Prof. Ishaq Olanrewju 


The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Zulu Gambari CFR, lent his support and blessings to the anniversary celebrations, praising the university for its commitment to excellence. The courtesy visit to the Emir was a testament to the university's strong ties with the community and its commitment to community engagement.


The anniversary celebrations also saw the participation of several notable personalities, including the Minister for Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, former Governor of Kwara state, Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed, Senator Olufemi Tinubu, the wife of the President. The event was also graced by the presence of former Vice Chancellors of the university, who shared their experiences and insights on the university's journey to excellence.


The University of Ilorin has truly set a new standard for anniversary celebrations, showcasing a model that other institutions can emulate. The university's approach to anniversary celebrations, which included a year-long programme of events, is a testament to its commitment to excellence and innovation, kudos to the Chairman Anniversary Committee Prof.Olugbenga Mokuolu and his wonderful members.


The university's commitment to excellence is not limited to its academic programs, but also extends to its community engagement and outreach initiatives. The university has been at the forefront of several community development projects, including the beautification of the environment ,COBES,SIWES, the provision of medical services to the community among others.


The rebranding of the university is a fitting tribute to Prof Egbewole's visionary leadership and his unwavering commitment to excellence. As he charts the course for the next 50 years, it is clear that the University of Ilorin is poised to become one of the best universities in the world.


As Prof PLO Lumumba, the Anniversary lecturer, noted, "Great universities are not built by chance, but by design". Prof Egbewole's design for the University of Ilorin is clear: to make it the best, not just in Nigeria, but in the world. The 'Best By Far' mantra is more than just a name; it is a call to action, a challenge to the university community to strive for excellence in all endeavors. It is a reminder that greatness is not a destination, but a journey, and that the University of Ilorin is on the right path.


The University of Ilorin is indeed a pacemaker, setting the standard for other institutions to follow. Its approach to anniversary celebrations, community engagement, and academic excellence is a model that other institutions can emulate. As Prof Egbewole noted, "We are not just better, we are the best, and we will continue to strive for excellence." The University of Ilorin is indeed 'Best By Far', and it will continue to be so, under the leadership of Prof. Egbewole.


      


Idris Alooma is the General Manager, UNILORIN FM radio station and a Deputy Director Corporate Affairs University of Ilorin

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