*The authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, assert the newly elected Deputy Vice-Chancellors 鈥擯rofessors Adesola Aderounmu, Oluropo Akinfala, and Akanni Akinyemi 鈥� ‘bring a dynamic mix of expertise, experience, and innovation, poised to elevate OAU鈥檚 legacy as a beacon of higher education in Africa’

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

In a historic decision signifying a giant stride at one of the foremost academic institutions in Nigeria, the Senate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has elected three distinguished Professors as new Deputy Vice-Chancellors (DVCs).

The University, via its information Web page, disclosed the revered body of Professors June 26, 2025, appointed Professors Adesola Aderounmu, Oluropo Akinfala, and Akanni Akinyemi to the pivotal roles of DVC Academic, DVC Administration, and DVC Research, Innovation & Development, respectively.

The OAU Senate Building

OAU said the historic decision also indicated a blending continuity with a fresh vision in a celebration of academic and administrative excellence in the University, fondly called “Great Ife” by the students and its admirers.

The institution also stated: “The Senate, a powerhouse of intellectual rigour, conducted this election with meticulous care, fully aware of the profound impact these roles have on the University鈥檚 trajectory.

“The newly elected DVCs鈥攅ach a titan in their field鈥攂ring a dynamic mix of expertise, experience, and innovation, poised to elevate OAU鈥檚 legacy as a beacon of higher education in Africa.”

Leading the trio is Professor Akanni Ibukun Akinyemi, whose re-election as DVC Research, Innovation & Development for another two-year term is a resounding vote of confidence in his transformative leadership.

According to the University, since taking the helm in 2023, Professor Akinyemi has redefined OAU鈥檚 research landscape, driving initiatives that have bolstered the University鈥檚 innovation ecosystem and amplified its global presence.

His visionary approach has sparked a surge in groundbreaking research and technology transfer, making his reappointment a natural choice for a Senate committed to progress.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Akinyemi said: 鈥淚 am deeply honoured to continue this journey, and I look forward to building on our successes to inspire even greater innovation.鈥�

Joining Professor Akinyemi are two exceptional scholars stepping into their roles with vigor and purpose: Professors Adesola Aderounmu and Oluropo Akinfala.

They succeed Professors Olubola Babalola and Olusanjo Matthew Abayomi Daramola, whose exemplary service since 2021 has left an enduring imprint on OAU, noted the academic institution.

It further said the outgoing DVCs鈥� contributions had set a high bar, one that the new appointees are eager to surpass.

Likewise, Professor Aderounmu, described as a luminary in Computer Science and Engineering, assumes the role of DVC Academic with a stellar record of leadership.

As the Centre Lead for the African Centre of Excellence in Software Engineering and Obafemi Awolowo University Knowledge (OAK)-Park, he has championed technological advancement and academic excellence.

Aderounmu’s tenure as Dean of the Faculty of Technology and Head of the Department of Computer Science, coupled with his 2015 election as President of the Nigeria Computer Society, affirms his credentials as a trailblazer.

The new DVC Academic also remarked: 鈥淭his is an opportunity to shape the future of education at OAU, and I am committed to fostering an environment where ideas thrive.鈥�

As DVC Administration, Professor Akinfala brings a wealth of experience and a steady hand to the University鈥檚 operational helm.

A distinguished scholar in Animal Science, he has served as Chairman of the University Security Committee since 2022, ensuring the safety and harmony of the OAU community.

His prior roles as Head of the Department of Animal Science and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture highlight his knack for navigating complex challenges with grace.

Professor Akinfala noted: 鈥淪ervice is at the heart of this role, and I am dedicated to making OAU a model of efficiency and care.鈥�

The University noted that the transition from the outgoing DVCs to this formidable trio “reflects OAU鈥檚 seamless blend of honouring its past while embracing its future.”

It stated Professors Babalola and Daramola will be handing over a University in robust health, and their successors are ready to build on that legacy with bold ambition and unalloyed dedication.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire captured the collective sentiment in a remark, saying: 鈥淭he election of Professors Aderounmu, Akinfala, and Akinyemi is an evidence of the depth of talent within our University.

鈥淭heir leadership will propel OAU to even greater heights, inspiring generations of scholars and innovators.鈥�

As the University steps confidently into the future, it does so with a leadership team that embodies excellence, innovation, and integrity.

“Professors Aderounmu, Akinfala, and Akinyemi are not just administrators鈥攖hey are visionaries tasked with shaping an institution that continues to inspire awe and admiration,” OAU averred.

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