From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Governing Council of Kwara State University (KWASU), has approved the promotion of 45 academic staff to professorial positions, a move the institution says will significantly strengthen its teaching and research capacity.
The decision was ratified at the council’s 78th regular meeting held on April 1, 2026, according to a statement issued in Ilorin by the Acting Director of University Relations, Professor Saeedat Aliyu.
Out of the total number, 20 academics were elevated to the rank of full Professors, while 25 others attained the position of Associate Professor across various faculties.
The university noted that the promotions span key disciplines, reflecting its expanding academic profile.
Aliyu described the development as a demonstration of KWASU’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community service.
In the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Prof. Henry Sawyerr was recognised for his contribution to Environmental Health Toxicology and Risk Management. The Faculty of Agriculture produced three new Professors: Prof. Olayinka Yusuf (Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology), Prof. Kayode Ayantoye (Agricultural Development and Policy), and Prof. Isaac Afe (Agronomy).
The Faculty of Arts recorded four new professors across areas such as Arabic Linguistics, African Literature, and Yoruba Cultural Studies. Similarly, the Faculty of Engineering and Technology produced six professors, with specialisations ranging from renewable energy to structural engineering.
Other faculties, including Management and Social Sciences as well as Pure and Applied Sciences, also featured prominently, with experts in Environmental Economics, Entrepreneurial Marketing, Microbiology, Chemistry, and Geochemistry among those elevated.
In addition, the council approved the promotion of 25 academics to the rank of Associate Professor across faculties such as Agriculture, Arts, Education, Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Management and Social Sciences, and Pure and Applied Sciences.
Aliyu said the promotions underscore the university’s sustained investment in human capital development and academic excellence, adding that the elevations would further enhance its capacity to deliver quality education and impactful research.
The latest development is expected to bolster KWASU’s standing as one of Nigeria’s leading state-owned universities.

