Former NOUN VC, Prof. Olufemi Peters, Appointed ACDE Goodwill Ambassador

The Executive Board of the African Council for Distance Education (ACDE) has approved the appointment of the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Olufemi A. Peters, as its goodwill ambassador.

ACDE President, Professor Solomon Shibairo, conveyed the news in a letter to Peters dated February 17, 2026, where he also appreciated the former VC's immense contributions to both the university and the broader Open and Distance Education community in Africa through ACDE. 

Shibairo, who is also the Vice-Chancellor of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, added that Peters' leadership at the NOUN “has been defined by vision, innovation, and steadfast commitment to accessible, inclusive, and high-quality higher education. 

He said: “Within ACDE, your impact has been profound. As the 1st Vice President of the Executive Board, your leadership strengthened the Council’s strategic direction, governance, and presence across the continent."

The president listed a number of notable feats recorded by the former vice-chancellor, especially as they concerned the realisation of the ACDE’s strategic goals.

To this end, he added, the ACDE deemed it fit to appoint him as its goodwill ambassador.

“In recognition of your legacy and unwavering support, I am honoured to inform you, on behalf of the ACDE Executive Board, that you are hereby appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the African Council for Distance Education,” he said.

He added that with this appointment, Peters is expected to assume the roles of “promoting the image of ACDE as a pan-African institution committed to expanding access 

to quality education and training through Open and Distance Learning (ODeL), including e-learning. 

Shibairo said the task before Peters also involves “enhancing the visibility and sustainability of ACDE by engaging with national 

governments, regional bodies, and international organisations to support its mission and supporting relevant advocacy, advisory, and representation activities in alignment with ACDE’s strategic goals.”

The president further explained that the appointment "demonstrates our immense gratitude and confidence in your continued influence as a thought leader and elder in the field of ODeL. 

“Your legacy of service, integrity, and excellence will continue to inspire the ACDE community and guide future generations of educational leaders across the continent.”