Ibileye takes over as 4th FUL’s VC, unveils vision

By Richard Elesho

Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye on Monday, took over the mantle of leadership as the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, with a declaration of his vision to transform the institution into a world-class status distinguished by academic excellence, cutting-edge research, innovation and societal impact.

He took over from Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi whose eventful tenure just ended.

The new Vice Chancellor who was inaugurated into the exalted position by the Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman of the University, Professor Zubairu Abdallah on Monday, also gave an assurance that his administration will focus on nurturing globally competitive students and staff in an enabling environment defined by transparency, inclusiveness, and collaboration.

Ibileye in his inaugural speech, stated that “This vision is anchored in a clear mission to enhance academic quality and strengthen research capacity; expand infrastructural development and digital transformation as well as deepen community engagement and sustainable development initiatives”

The VC also stated that he is assuming office fully prepared to deliver on his mandate as an experienced hand with over three decades of service within the Nigerian University system, and as pioneer staff member of the Federal University, Lokoja

“I have witnessed FUL struggles, its progress, its aspirations, and its resilience. This familiarity has afforded me the opportunity to operate well and achieve the desired results;” he noted.

He paid tribute to the former Vice Chancellors of the Federal University, Lokoja, starting from the pioneer VC, Professor Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, followed by Professor Angela Miri and the immediate past Professor Olayemi Akinwumi for laying solid foundation with which the institution has grown tremendously.

He promised to consolidate on the past academic excellence and infrastructural development already put in place before his coming on board as continuity gives room for huge success in every situation of leadership.

The Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman of the University, Professor Zubairu Abdallah who performed the inauguration ceremony, described the immediate past Vice Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi as “Father of Modern FUL”

According to the Governing Council Chairman, the immediate past VC left legacy worthy of emulation by the in-coming VC.

“You served this great university with honor, and we will continue to remember you. You are a man with clear vision. The new VC is lucky to meet a solid foundation that he must strive to build upon”

Earlier in his handing over speech, the out-going VC, Professor Olayemi commended the Governing Council members, management, staff, and students of the University for their support and loyalty, which he said made his achievements possible.

He called on them to extend the same hands of fellowship to the new VC, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye.

The new VC is a Professor of English language. He joined FUL in 2012 and served as the head of the department of English before his new appointment as VC.