The Senate of the University of Ilorin has approved the conferment of the prestigious title of Emeritus Professor on three distinguished retired scholars: Prof. Is’haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, Prof. Olu Obafemi, and Prof. Musbau Akanji.
This monumental decision was taken at the University Senate’s 304th meeting, as disclosed by Mr. Kunle Akogun, the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs. The three professors, celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions to academia and national development, will now bear the esteemed title of Emeritus Professor.
A Closer Look at the Honorees
- Emeritus Professor Is’haq Olanrewaju Oloyede: Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin and current Registrar/Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). He retired from the University in October 2023, leaving a legacy of transformational leadership and integrity.
- Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi: A revered scholar of English and Dramatic Literature, Prof. Obafemi retired in 2020 and is widely recognized for his contributions to literary scholarship and cultural studies.
- Emeritus Professor Musbau Akanji: A luminary in Biochemistry, Prof. Akanji served as Vice Chancellor at both Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, and the Federal University of Technology, Minna, before retiring in 2021. His decades-long commitment to academic excellence and mentorship has left an indelible mark on the field.
Tributes to Prof. Musbau Akanji
The conferment of Emeritus Professor on Prof. Akanji has drawn accolades from colleagues and mentees across the academic community:
- Prof. O. A. Sodipo: (The immediate past National President of NSBMB) “Congratulations to a great teacher of teachers and mentor of mentors. I am truly lucky and proud to be associated with him. We pray for long life, good health, and prosperity for Emeritus Professor Musbau Akanji. Congratulations, Sir!”
- Dr. I. Igwenyi: (The Coordinator of NSBMB, Southeast Zone) “Prof. Akanji has always been consistent in his career and educational development, especially in Biochemistry. This honor is well-deserved. Congratulations to us all.”
- Prof. I. A. Umar: (The Editor-in-Chief, Nigerian Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) “Congratulations to Prof. Akanji. He has always been a role model for me over the years. This appointment is very well-deserved. Prof. Oloyede (the transformative Registrar of JAMB) has been my hero of honesty, accountability, and moral rectitude since he was appointed to that position. I have endeavored to pattern my life by the examples of these two outstanding citizens. I wish our country had a critical mass of such people. May Allah continue to guide and guard them.”
- Dr. S.I.R. Okoduwa: (Immediate past Coordinator, NSBMB Southwest Zone and Pioneer Director of ICT, NSBMB). “Prof. Akanji embodies academic excellence, humility and mentorship of the highest order. His career journey has been an inspiration to many, including myself, and his contributions to Biochemistry are legendary. The conferment of Emeritus Professor is a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge and nurturing future leaders. May his impact continue to resonate for generations to come. Congratulations sir”.
- Prof. M.O. Wegwu (National President, NSBMB). “Emeritus Professor Musbau AKanji is a towering figure in the field of Biochemistry and a symbol of academic integrity. His contributions to research and mentorship have shaped countless lives and continue to inspire the biochemistry community in Nigeria and beyond. This recognition is a testament to his dedication and exceptional achievements. On behalf of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your continued success”
A Legacy of Excellence
The appointment of these eminent scholars as Emeritus Professors reaffirms the University of Ilorin’s commitment to recognizing exceptional academic and leadership contributions. Their achievements stand as a testament to the enduring value of integrity, mentorship, and intellectual innovation in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Congratulations to Emeritus Professors Oloyede, Obafemi, and Akanji on this well-deserved recognition!
