PROFILE: Meet Peter Olapegba, University of Ibadan’s new vice-chancellor

The University of Ibadan has appointed Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as its new vice-chancellor, making him the 14th substantive head of Nigeria’s premier university.

Until his appointment, the 56-year-old professor of psychology served as the institution’s deputy vice-chancellor (administration).

Born on January 26, 1970, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Olapegba hails from Igbole Quarters in Igboora. He began his education at Anglican Church Primary School, Ilutitun, in present-day Ondo State, before completing his primary education at St. Paul’s African Primary School, Lanlate. He later attended Lanlate High School.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science, Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in psychology from the University of Ibadan and joined the institution as an assistant lecturer in 2000. He was promoted to the rank of professor in 2014.

During his academic career, Olapegba has held several key leadership positions, including dean of the Faculty of the Social Sciences, director of alumni relations and deputy vice-chancellor (administration).

The new vice-chancellor has attracted several research grants and fellowships, authored three books and published more than 110 scholarly articles. He has also supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate students and served on the editorial boards of reputable academic journals.

A fellow of the Nigerian Psychological Association, Olapegba has contributed to higher education through his membership of several university governing councils and professional bodies.

A devout Christian, Olapegba is married with children. His appointment makes him the 14th vice-chancellor of the 78-year-old University of Ibadan.