OAU Mourns Dean of Faculty of Administration, Professor Rafiu Oyesola Salawu

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of the Dean of the Faculty of Administration, Professor Rafiu Oyesola Salawu.

Professor Salawu passed away on Sunday, although the cause of his death has not yet been officially disclosed.

The University’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the death, stating that the institution’s Management received the news with profound shock and a deep sense of loss.

He noted that Professor Salawu’s passing represented a monumental blow not only to OAU and the Faculty of Administration, but also to the wider academic community, his students, alumni, colleagues and associates.

Olanrewaju said that despite serving as Dean for barely a year, Professor Salawu had left an indelible mark on the Faculty through sweeping physical and administrative upgrades.

“Within that relatively short period, Professor Salawu demonstrated an uncommon commitment to excellence and institutional development,” Olanrewaju stated.

According to the University Management, under his stewardship, virtually every office in the Faculty was fully air-conditioned, equipped with Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) security systems and supported by solar-powered energy solutions to create a modern, secure and technology-driven academic environment.

Olanrewaju said that beyond infrastructure, Professor Salawu was also celebrated as a passionate student advocate and bridge-builder who prioritised staff welfare, student advancement and strong alumni relations.

“His approachable and resourceful leadership style reflected a genuine drive to leave the faculty significantly better than he met it,” Olanrewaju added.

The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, staff and students, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the University community.

Professor Bamire described the late scholar as a dedicated academic, accomplished administrator and servant-leader, noting that his brief tenure had already established an enduring legacy of institutional transformation.

The University Management prayed that Almighty God would grant his family and the entire OAU community the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, while honouring a life defined by exceptional service and impactful mentorship.