From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The University of Ilorin, has flagged off its week-long golden jubilee celebrations with a firm declaration that the institution will continue to shine as one of Nigeria’s most stable and development-driven university.
Speaking during a press briefing at the University Auditorium, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), described UNILORIN’s 50-year journey as a story of resilience, innovation and steady progress.
“From a humble beginning in 1975, this University has grown into an accomplished institution. Today, when we look in the mirror, what we see is stability, character, excellence and progress. Truly, gold never rusts,” he said.
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Prof. Egbewole paid tribute to the founding fathers of the institution, noting that their vision and passion laid a strong foundation that shaped the university’s reputation.
He celebrated past vice-chancellors, pioneer administrators and thousands of unnamed contributors who helped UNILORIN evolve from a “glorified secondary school” to Nigeria’s most sought-after university.
According to him, UNILORIN’s golden age is marked by several milestones including the introduction of Computer-Based Testing in Nigeria, strong academic output, internationalisation strides and leadership roles in global university networks such as the International Association of Universities, Association of African Universities and others.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to its core values of Integrity, Networking, Justice, Excellence and Teamwork. “We hold these values dearly. They define who we are,” he said.
He added that the university has entered a phase of “innovative reinvention”, driven by technology adoption, strengthened academic calendar, improved infrastructure and a vision for global competitiveness.
“Our Vision 1:10:500 is a commitment — to remain Nigeria’s number one, to rank among Africa’s top 10 and to join the world’s top 500 universities. This is not a slogan. It is a responsibility,” he stated.
The golden jubilee activities include campus-wide walks, thanksgiving services, a movie premiere by UNILORIN alumni, medical outreaches and the commissioning of major projects such as the Space Research Centre. The week will also feature an alumni day, a 50th anniversary project model presentation and the launch of a N50 billion endowment fund.
One of the major highlights is an anniversary lecture titled Unilorin at 50: Innovating for a Sustainable Nigerian Future, to be delivered by renowned African scholar Prof. Patrice Lumumba, of Kenya.
Prof. Egbewole also used the occasion to comment on the rising insecurity in the country and recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“Partnership with world powers is welcome, but Nigeria’s sovereignty must never be compromised,” he warned, urging foreign governments to support Nigeria with technology rather than interventionist tendencies.
“This is a time for Nigerians to unite. Let us say an unequivocal NO to all forms of extremism. As Dr. Chuba Okadigbo said, if your tribal or religious sentiments cloud your sense of justice, your education is useless,” he added.
Looking ahead to the next 50 years, the university targets full automation, AI-driven research, climate resilience, enhanced global ranking, stronger community service and a safe, student-centred campus.
“Our next chapter is about academic stability, innovation, sustainable development and global relevance,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Emir of Ilorin, the Governing Council, staff unions, alumni, host communities and security agencies for their roles in the institution’s success.
“To everyone who has supported us, may you never rust. May you continue to shine and glitter,” he said.
UNILORIN’s golden jubilee celebrations will round off with a special Juma’at service on Friday.
