AAUA Convocation Lecture: Ex-UI VC, Prof. Olayinka, Charts Path to Rescue Nigerian Universities
By Ikale Voice Newspaper
Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, has called for urgent and far-reaching reforms to rescue Nigeria’s university system, citing funding deficits, weak governance and the erosion of academic values as major challenges confronting higher education in the country.
Professor Olayinka delivered the convocation lecture at the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) convocation ceremony held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the university’s main auditorium.
In his lecture, the former UI Vice-Chancellor lamented the declining standards in many public universities, attributing the situation to poor funding, unstable academic calendars, inadequate research support and frequent industrial actions. He warned that without deliberate reforms, Nigerian universities risk losing relevance both locally and globally.
He emphasised the need for stable academic calendars, improved funding models and strong internal accountability, noting that universities must be centres of innovation, research and national development. He also urged lecturers and administrators to recommit to discipline, merit and excellence in teaching and leadership.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chancellor of AAUA, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola (rtd.), the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olugbenga Ige, members of the university’s Governing Council, principal officers, professors, academic and non-academic staff, graduating students and their families.
Also present were traditional rulers, government representatives, alumni and other stakeholders in the education sector who converged on the institution to celebrate the graduating students and reflect on the future of university education in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Professor Ige described the convocation lecture as timely and thought-provoking, noting that the issues raised align with the ongoing efforts to reposition AAUA and other Nigerian universities for academic excellence and global competitiveness.
The convocation ceremony marked another milestone in the history of the university, with participants calling for sustained collaboration among government, university authorities and staff to restore confidence in Nigeria’s higher education system.
