The University of Ilorin in continuation of its Golden Jubilee to showcase how far it has come as an institution of global excellence honoured 65 Distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions to the university.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Wahab Egbewole, SAN, speaking at the occasion on Wednesday, said the ceremony focuses on three categories of honourees, each selected for their remarkable contributions to the university and society at large

According to him, 50 alumni were given the awards of Ambassadors of the University, 10 received Distinguished Alumni Awards and two recipients of the Award of Excellence.

He said those given awards have demonstrated loyalty to the values of the University and have given back meaningfully whether through mentorship, resources or collaboration.

Prof Egbewole said of the honourees were added in recognition of their extraordinary acts of generosity and support, reaffirming the saying that one good turn deserves another.

The Vice-Chancellor described the event as more than just a celebration of milestones — but a deliberate call to collective action for the future of education in Nigeria.

“We are honouring those who have chosen to walk this journey with us through mentorship, donations, and collaborations.

“These individuals remind us that building a great institution is not the work of one person or one era, but a legacy passed across generations,” he said

Notably, alumni from the 1984 Medical class, 1992 Agriculture class, and 2003 Accounting and Finance class also received special recognition.

Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, a 1984 medical graduate, was applauded for sponsoring international conferences for 40 academic staff members through a donation worth N200 million.

He also donated a Hilux van for campus security and played a key role in acquiring an Anatomage machine for the university’s medical training, while also donating N250 millions at the occasion.

Another notable benefactor, Dr. Murthada Adeniji—an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University—donated a 90KVA solar system to power parts of the Unilorin campus, reducing its energy costs. He also provided a Hilux vehicle to ease university transportation and also donated N250 millions.

Professor Egbewole said, “What makes these contributions remarkable is that they were made without solicitation. Their generosity reinforces our belief that the Unilorin vision resonates far and wide.”

He appealed to other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate such support, especially as the university prepares to launch legacy projects such as a Techno and Industrial Park and a Centre for Stem Cell Research.

The Vice-Chancellor also called on the honourees to stay engaged as mentors and champions of innovation, saying “We are building the future, and we need you to help shape it — not only with your resources but with your experience and wisdom,” he added.

In his keynote address, a legal luminary and philanthropist, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), urged alumni to view giving back as both a moral responsibility and a spiritual imperative.

“The heart of giving is the heartbeat of humanity. If you have walked these halls and benefitted from this institution, then your duty is clear—invest in its future.”

Prof. Ali, citing global and Nigerian icons such as Rockefeller, Alfred Nobel, MKO Abiola, Aliko Dangote, and Tony Elumelu, reminded the audience that impactful giving is not defined by wealth, but by intention.

“You don’t have to wait until you’re a billionaire. The true value of your gift lies in its sincerity and purpose,” he said, drawing from both Islamic and Christian scriptures.

“The upper hand is better than the lower one, and God loves a cheerful giver, he added.

He laid out seven reasons alumni must rise to the occasion: gratitude, empathy, legacy, sustainability, nation-building, good neighbourliness, and the promotion of collective good.

“Our universities cannot depend solely on government subvention. If we want these institutions to thrive and compete globally, we must bridge the gap ourselves,” Ali said.

Chairman of the 50th Anniversary Planning Committee, Professor Abiodun Adeoye, described Unilorin as “a brand that has grown from a local dream into a global institution, producing leaders across 16 faculties and numerous industries.”

He urged all stakeholders to take pride in the shared journey and commit to its continued success.

“Sometimes, it is our doubters who push us to do more. Despite challenges, we have stood tall. Unilorin belongs to all of us, and together we must preserve its glory,” he said.

Professor Olugbenga Mokuolu, Chairman of the UNILORIN 50th Anniversary Committee, announced that the main celebrations would hold from November 23 to 28, 2025, featuring activities such as a fundraising dinner, alumni colloquium, innovation showcases, and the launch of a N50 billion endowment fund.

“We want our future to be as impactful as our past. This endowment is not just about money — it is about building systems, empowering students, and strengthening academic excellence,” MMokuolu added.

On the list of the honourees are: Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, CEO and Registrar JAMB, Prof. Duro Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja, Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Alebiosu, among others.
===========