“Genuine Success is Achieved Through Deliberate Choices,” UI VC Charges Newly Matriculated Students

The Vice-Chancellor of University of Ibadan federal university"], Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has urged newly matriculated students to make deliberate choices in order to achieve genuine success, stressing that matriculation is more than a ceremony—it is a rite of passage into the university community.

In his address at the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session, Professor Adebowale described the University of Ibadan as a microcosm of Nigeria, where students will encounter multiple paths that shape their character: friendships, societies, books, and thoughts. He emphasised that deliberate decisions—choosing intellectually stimulating friends, attending lectures, engaging with lecturers, prioritising the library over idle chatter, and integrity over shortcuts—form the foundation of personal and academic growth.

The Vice-Chancellor underscored UI’s commitment to producing not only brilliant minds but individuals of impeccable character, warning that the university maintains a zero-tolerance policy on unruly behaviour, cultism, examination malpractice, and harassment.

Professor Adebowale provided insight into the competitive admission process, revealing that 46,916 candidates selected UI as their first-choice institution via JAMB for the 2025/2026 session. Of these, 13,618 sat the Post-UTME after meeting the 200-point standard, and 7,046 scored 50% or above. Ultimately, 4,171 students were admitted through UTME and 259 through Direct Entry. He reminded the matriculants that they are ambassadors of UI’s indigo-blue and gold colours and must conduct themselves with dignity.

The Matriculation Lecture was delivered by Dr. Olusola Ayoola, who highlighted the importance of diligence, planning, and striving for excellence. Dr. Ayoola encouraged students to remain disciplined even when peers falter, take the right paths when shortcuts are tempting, and pursue excellence as the culmination of deliberate and consistent effort. He also reminded them of their parents’ sacrifices, framing diligence as a commitment not only to themselves but to their families.

The ceremony concluded with the administration of the Matriculation Oath by the Registrar, Ganiyu O. Saliu, followed by the signing of the matriculation registers and validation of the oath by a court of law, formally inducting the students into the University of Ibadan community.