The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has commended the educational reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and provision of critical resources for schools in Ekiti State. He praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership for his contributions to education, good governance, community welfare, and national development.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, Adebowale honored Oyebanji with the prestigious UI @75 Ambassador award, recognizing his efforts in advancing education. He noted that the governor’s initiatives have positively impacted the academic community not only in Ekiti but across the nation, leading to his decoration as an ambassador.
“In less than two years as governor, Oyebanji has demonstrated capacity and redefined governance in the state through his inclusive governance approach which has mobilized elites, traditional institutions, artisans, women, and youth for the development and progress of the state,” Adebowale said.
Congratulating the governor, Adebowale expressed confidence that Oyebanji would continue to inspire future leaders and represent the University of Ibadan well as an ambassador.
In his response, Oyebanji thanked the UI management and emphasized the importance of education in unlocking the full potential of the nation’s youth. He pledged continued support for policies aimed at improving education quality and strengthening collaborations with higher learning institutions, particularly UI, to enhance academic research, innovation, and capacity building.
“I am extremely grateful to the UI management and the chairman of the anniversary committee for counting Ekiti lucky to receive this award. I am also grateful to my wife who convinced me to accept this, because this is the first award I will personally receive,” Oyebanji said.
He shared his family’s long history with UI, noting that his father graduated from the university, he completed his Master’s degree there, and his wife and children also attended UI. Oyebanji acknowledged the responsibility that comes with being an ambassador of UI and promised to uphold the institution’s reputation.
“I also know that the reward for hard work is more work and this will impose a lot of responsibility on me,” he added.
