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The University of Ilorin on Wednesday bestowed an award of Excellence on Dr. Tunji Olowolafe and Dr. Murthada Adeniji in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the institution and education in general.
The award ceremony, held at the institution’s auditorium, was part of the activities line-up to celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary.
Declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN) described the occasion as a defining moment in the university’s history, spotlighting the invaluable support it has received over the decades from its alumni and well-wishers.
“We are here to acknowledge those who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also remained connected to the Unilorin dream through giving, mentorship, and partnership,” Professor Egbewole said.
Fifty graduates were honoured as Unilorin Ambassadors, with ten recognised as Distinguished Alumni and two receiving the Award of Excellence.
Speaking on the choice of awardees, the VC said their selection was based on consistent professional achievement, generosity, and dedication to the institution’s progress.
Cross-section of Distinguished Alumni
The VC also gave special recognition to the duo of Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, a 1984 medical graduate of Unilorin and Dr. Murthada Adeniji, an alumnus of another university for their outstanding generosity towards the progress of Unilorin.
Dr. Olowolafe was applauded for sponsoring 40 academic staff to attend international conferences supporting each with N5 million, amounting to N200 million in total and for donating a Hilux van for campus security and contributing to the purchase of an Anatomage machine. Dr. Adeniji, meanwhile, funded a 90KVA solar system for the university and also provided a vehicle for its transportation needs.
L-R: Dr. Murthada Adeniji and Dr. Tunji Olowolafe
“What is special about these individuals is that they gave without being asked. Their support underscores that the Unilorin vision resonates far and wide,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
Looking ahead, he revealed that major legacy projects are in the pipeline, including a Techno and Industrial Park and a Centre for Stem Cell Research. He appealed to alumni and the public to rally behind these plans through financial support and advocacy.
In his keynote address, a legal scholar and philanthropist Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), urged alumni not to disconnect from their roots but to instead see giving back as a responsibility, not a favour.
“Universities cannot thrive on government funds alone. Giving is not just about money it is about time, mentorship, and vision,” Prof. Ali said. “You don’t need to be rich to give. The sincerity of your gift is more important than its size.”
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Referencing religious and global examples, he highlighted that a culture of giving has historically strengthened societies and institutions. “MKO Abiola, Tony Elumelu, Rockefeller they understood that success becomes meaningful when it is shared.”
He encouraged alumni to sponsor students, equip laboratories, or simply volunteer their time to guide others. “You were shaped here. Help shape others,” he challenged.
Also in his remarks Professor Abiodun Adeoye, Chairman of the 50th Anniversary Planning Committee, said the celebration is a testament to Unilorin’s resilience and relevance in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
“We have evolved from a local institution into a globally respected brand,” Adeoye said. “Despite challenges, the University of Ilorin has stood firm, producing leaders, scholars, and innovators across 16 faculties.”
He described the event not merely as a recognition ceremony but a moment to reflect and recommit to the values that have sustained the institution over five decades.
Professor Olugbenga Mokuolu, who chairs the anniversary committee, revealed that the main celebration will hold from November 23 to 28, 2025, and will feature thanksgiving services, alumni colloquiums, cultural performances, and a major fundraising dinner.
He also announced the launch of a N50 billion endowment fund aimed at upgrading infrastructure, expanding research, and improving welfare on campus.
“You are more than awardees,” he told the honourees. “You are the hands and heart of Unilorin’s future. Let us write the next chapter together.”
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