ACU Charges New Deans, HODs, Directors on Integrity, Service and Strategic Leadership

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has charged its newly appointed Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, Heads of Units and Committee members to uphold integrity, accountability and effective service delivery in their responsibilities to God, the University and humanity.

The charge was given during a four-day leadership retreat organised for the newly appointed academic and administrative leaders to strengthen their leadership capacity and promote institutional growth.

The retreat, held from August 6 to 9, 2026, featured spiritual, intellectual and physical activities designed to prepare participants for effective service and responsible leadership.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of ACU, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, addressed participants on the theme, “Come Labour On as Faithful Stewards in God’s Vineyard.”

Professor Oduwole emphasised that leadership positions in the University should not be regarded merely as promotions but as divine assignments requiring faithful stewardship and a commitment to building the institution.

She explained that the retreat was designed to help participants understand their roles as responsibilities rooted in service, discipline and sustainable institutional development.

The first day featured a Bible study session on “The Concept of Service,” with emphasis on availability and humility. Faculties also presented their respective action plans, outlining strategies for growth and development.

Participants received lectures on the University’s examination system, with emphasis on strict adherence to timelines for submitting examination materials and compliance with established rules and regulations. Invigilators were also reminded of the need to arrive early at examination venues to ensure the smooth conduct of examinations.

Another session focused on compliance, risk management and legal issues. Participants were informed that adherence to regulations protects the University from sanctions, financial losses and litigation. Leaders were encouraged to identify and manage potential risks before they escalate.

The second day of the retreat focused on faithfulness, financial management and the need for leaders to “walk the talk.” The day began with sporting activities, followed by a Bible study session on faithfulness and diligence.

The University Bursar, Dr. Ayodele Olusanwo, delivered a lecture on financial management, focusing on the effective management of departmental funds and strategies for generating Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Dr. Olusanwo urged Deans, Heads of Departments and Directors to adopt innovative approaches that would enhance the University’s visibility and financial sustainability. He also encouraged faculties to organise training programmes and periodically review their revenue-generating activities.

A major highlight of the second day was an address by the Archbishop of Ibadan Province and Governing Council Member of ACU, the Rt. Revd. Dr. Williams Aladekugbe, who charged the leaders to “walk the talk” and embody the theme, “Come, Labour On: Nehemiah Leaders in Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo.”

The Archbishop stressed that modern university leadership had moved beyond routine administration and now required strategic thinking, strategic innovation and stewardship in a rapidly changing academic environment.

He identified Honesty, Hard Work, Dependability, Respect, Punctuality, Communication and Professional Conduct as essential values for effective and ethical leadership.

Participants also engaged in discussions on teaching methods across faculties, sharing best practices aimed at improving instructional delivery. Other sessions focused on increasing research output, effective postgraduate supervision and strategies for securing research grants.

The third day centred on holistic development and work ethics, beginning with sporting activities aimed at promoting wellness, teamwork and bonding among participants.

This was followed by a Bible study titled, “Serving God Through Others and God's Blessings in True Service.”

A session on staff-to-staff and staff-to-student relationships emphasised the importance of mutual respect and integrity within the University community. Facilitators noted that healthy relationships are fundamental to achieving institutional objectives and maintaining a conducive academic environment.

Discussions also focused on the roles, responsibilities and action plans of various committees. Representatives of the committees highlighted their mandates and achievements, stressing that the committees play important roles in promoting transparency and providing expert guidance for institutional development.

In a lecture on work ethics, teamwork and collaboration, Professor Kehinde Ayantayo underscored the importance of unity among University leaders. He noted that effective collaboration enhances productivity while fostering collective intelligence and innovation within the university system.

Other activities included a session on stress and stress management, where participants were equipped with strategies for managing workplace pressures.

A mentoring session for young lecturers encouraged leaders to support colleagues through prayer, celebrate small achievements and accept correction with humility. Participants also took part in a practical session on curriculum vitae writing, followed by a prayer session.

On the final day, Sunday, August 9, the management and retreat participants attended a communion and dedication service at the Crowther Hall of the University.

The service was conducted by the Rt. Revd. Dr. Olufemi Familoni, who addressed participants on the theme, “Come, Labour On as a City Set on a Hill.”

The message was aimed at inspiring the participants to serve as exemplary leaders and role models within and beyond the University.

In her closing remarks, Professor Oduwole admonished the newly appointed leaders to refrain from condemning their predecessors, urging them instead to build on existing foundations and contribute to moving the University forward.

She thanked the Rt. Revd. Dr. Olufemi Familoni for accepting to host the service and appreciated the participants for their commitment to the retreat from the beginning to its conclusion.

The high point of the retreat came on the third day when the newly appointed leaders presented an award to the Vice-Chancellor in recognition of her exemplary leadership, dedication and commitment to the growth and development of Ajayi Crowther University.