AAUA pro-chancellor bows out, highlights eight-year achievements

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, says he is leaving the institution better positioned for further growth after eight years in office.

Abayomi, whose second term ends on Saturday, stated this during his valedictory media briefing in Akure, where he highlighted achievements in academics, research, infrastructure and staff welfare.

According to him, three vice-chancellors, Professors Igbekele Ajibefun, Olugbenga Ige and Tomola Obamuyi, served during his tenure, adding that his relationship with the university’s principal officers remained cordial and focused on advancing the institution’s interests.

He said the Governing Council expanded the university’s academic structure through the establishment of new faculties and departments, while the institution maintained 100 per cent accreditation of its programmes by the National Universities Commission over the past five years.

“Another major achievement was the expansion of our academic offerings to accommodate emerging areas of knowledge and provide students with wider opportunities,” Abayomi said.

In research, he said nine academics from the university were listed among the world’s top 2% researchers in the 2024 Elsevier-Stanford ranking, while several infrastructure projects were completed or advanced during his tenure.

He listed the projects to include new faculty facilities, agricultural infrastructure, improved sanitation, upgraded classrooms and offices, as well as the renovation of the Moot Court and remodelling of the University Business School.

Abayomi also highlighted staff promotions, salary improvements, student scholarships, the Work-Study Scheme and efforts to expand student accommodation as other achievements, expressing appreciation to the Governing Council, management, staff and students for their support throughout his tenure.