By Taofeeq Agbeniga
The University of Ibadan’s outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has formally concluded his tenure with a valedictory ceremony held at Trenchard Hall on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
The ceremony featured Adebowale’s reflections on his tenure, goodwill messages from members of the university community and a presentation of infrastructure projects undertaken during his administration.
In his valedictory address, Adebowale identified peace and stability, infrastructural development and academic excellence as key priorities of his administration. He described leadership as a responsibility before a privilege, highlighting efforts to strengthen academic standards, support research, improve infrastructure and prioritise staff welfare.
He also acknowledged the university’s persistent funding constraints and infrastructural needs, noting that these would require continued attention from his successor.
Addressing the incoming administration, Adebowale likened leadership transition to a relay race, saying he had completed his part and was handing over responsibility to the next person. He described his tenure as an opportunity to serve and contribute to the development of the institution.
Adebowale also reflected on the personal sacrifices his office demanded of his family. Recounting an experience during his tenure, he said he usually called members of his family at night but once went a week without making the calls. According to him, one of his sons subsequently called and asked, “Do we still have a father?”
The outgoing Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to his family for their support, alongside members of the university community, students, the media and religious leaders who supported his administration.
In a goodwill message, the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) described Adebowale as a father figure and a generous individual. Recalling the electricity protest during his administration, the student leader also referred to him as “a cheerful giver” and “a father to me”.
A documentary screened during the event showcased infrastructure projects associated with Adebowale’s administration. These included buildings for the Faculties of Science and Veterinary Medicine, the Departments of Architecture and Mechanical Engineering, as well as extensions to the Departments of Geology and Statistics.
Other facilities featured were the Career Development and Counselling Centre, Talents Apartments, the Faculty of Social Sciences office building and the extension building of the Department of Forestry.
The documentary also highlighted road rehabilitation works on Manuwa Road, Barth Road, Kwara Road, Ijoma Road and the University of Ibadan–Ajibode Road. Other projects presented included a 650-seat lecture facility at the Distance Learning Centre, repairs to Jaja Clinic, a five-a-side football pitch and tree planting along the bank of Awba Dam.
However, the presentation did not provide detailed information on the individual costs, completion dates or the measurable impact of the projects on students and staff.
The ceremony also featured artistic contributions from the Departments of Linguistics and Music and the Faculty of Arts. The Department of Linguistics presented an artwork accompanied by a eulogy recitation, while the Faculty of Arts staged a musical performance in honour of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor.
The programme brought together members of the university community to reflect on Adebowale’s years of service as the institution prepared for a new administration.
