Babcock University exits N17.5bn debt as new VC sets reform agenda
Babcock University, Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, has fully repaid an inherited N17.536 billion debt, marking the end of a decade-long financial recovery under outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ademola Tayo. He announced the milestone in his valedictory address titled “Consolidating a Decade of Transformation (2015–2025)”, declaring that the institution was exiting his tenure completely debt-free.
Tayo described the repayment as a defining highlight of his administration, noting that the inherited debt, though strategic, had placed early constraints on the institution. He said Babcock was now stronger, more stable and positioned for sustainable growth.
Beyond the financial turnaround, his administration implemented sweeping upgrades in digital infrastructure, including a 19-fold increase in internet bandwidth, campus-wide fibre-optic connectivity and the installation of over 70 smart boards. The university also became the first in Nigeria to secure National Data Protection Commission certification as both Data Controller and Data Processor.
Under Tayo’s watch, Babcock completed 47 national and international accreditation cycles, introduced new programmes such as Engineering and Environmental Studies, and established new academic schools. Research output surged, with publications rising from 392 in 2015 to 4,717 in 2025, while citations climbed from 280 to 24,460.
The former VC also noted improvements in external funding, including the ASR Foundation’s N250 million support for Babcock University Press, alongside other international grants that boosted the school’s research profile.
The new Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Afolarin Isaac Ojewole, said his administration would pursue people-centred leadership, digital transformation, global competitiveness and a renewed commitment to the Seventh-day Adventist mission. His strategic framework is anchored on G.R.A.C.E—Globally Relevant, Research-Focused, Adventist-Rooted, Competent Community and Entrepreneurial.
Ojewole unveiled a series of immediate and medium-term reforms, including full automation of the university’s finance, registry, HR, bursary and teaching hospital operations. He also promised faster release of exam results, smoother transcript processing, and an increase in international student enrolment and faculty with global exposure.
He added that the university would adopt internationally accredited curricula, expand digital integration across departments and upgrade laboratories and smart classrooms. Following reports of students stranded during clinical rotations, Ojewole ordered the immediate purchase of a new coaster bus to prevent a recurrence.
