Ajayi Crowther University, Uyo, has announced the appointment of Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole as its new Vice-Chancellor, making her the first female to hold the position in the institution’s history.
The announcement was made during a valedictory ceremony held in honour of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Timothy Adebayo, whose four-year tenure was described as transformative for the university.
Chairman of the Governing Council and Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo, commended Prof. Adebayo for his outstanding leadership since assuming office in 2020, noting that the institution recorded “tremendous growth” despite Nigeria’s challenging economic climate. He cited an external auditor’s report which confirmed the remarkable progress achieved during his tenure.
“Prof. Adebayo has maintained a good record since he became Vice-Chancellor. This growth is being recognised at a time when the country faces economic difficulties,” Okeowo said.
He further praised the management team, principal officers, and staff of the university for their teamwork, describing them as key to the institution’s success.
While restating the university’s vision of ranking among the top 1,000 universities in the world, Okeowo officially introduced Prof. Oduwole as Adebayo’s successor.
“History is made today as we welcome Prof. (Mrs) Ebunoluwa Oduwole as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University. I am confident she will not lack your cooperation and prayers as she leads the institution to greater heights,” he said.