KolaDaisi University Appoints Professor Olajumoke Morenikeji as First Female Vice-Chancellor

The Governing Council of KolaDaisi University (KDU) has announced the appointment of Professor Olajumoke Abimbola Morenikeji as the institution's first female Vice-Chancellor-Designate.

The appointment, ratified during the 33rd Statutory Meeting of the Governing Council on April 30, 2026, follows a transparent selection process approved by the Board of Trustees. Professor Morenikeji is scheduled to officially assume leadership on August 3, 2026.

A world-class Parasitologist, Professor Morenikeji holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from the University of Ibadan. Her doctoral research was instrumental in the successful eradication of guinea worm across fifteen communities in Nigeria.

With over 120 peer-reviewed publications and seven books, her research integrates cutting-edge tools like nanotechnology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to combat tropical diseases such as malaria and schistosomiasis.

She has served as the pioneer Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, and Chair of the Accreditation Committee. Her leadership was pivotal in hosting the university's first international science conference.

Professor Morenikeji is a renowned figure in biodiversity conservation. She is the Founder of the Pangolin Conservation Guild Nigeria and serves as the West African Regional Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. Her work has directly influenced Nigeria’s National Strategy to Combat Wildlife and Forest Crime (2022–2026).

The University Management described Professor Morenikeji as a "results-driven leader" with the capacity to mobilize stakeholders and deliver measurable progress. Her appointment is viewed as a strategic step toward advancing KDU’s mission of academic excellence, innovation, and societal impact.