Prof. Ayorinde of UNILORIN Calls for Competence in University Leadership Appointments
Prof. Kolade Luke Ayorinde urges stakeholders to prioritize merit over politics in the appointment of university leaders during his retirement address at the University of Ilorin.
Mary Nwaeze 
Professor Kolade Luke Ayorinde, former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) in a poignant valedictory lecture delivered at the University of Ilorin, urged stakeholders in Nigeria's higher education sector to prioritize competence and capacity over political affiliations and other primordial considerations in the appointment of Vice Chancellors and Principal Officers.
The lecture, titled "Making Things Sparkle," marked Prof. Ayorinde's retirement after a distinguished career at the university, which he joined in 1987. The Faculty of Agriculture organized the event in recognition of his significant contributions.
Prof. Ayorinde highlighted the detrimental effects of politics on university leadership, noting that factors such as ethnicity, cronyism, and financial influence often overshadow merit. "The politics surrounding these appointments has hindered the progress of our universities, preventing them from achieving high international ratings," he stated.
He criticized both public and private universities for perpetuating these practices, lamenting that qualified candidates are often overlooked in favor of those with connections. “It is unfortunate that despite possessing immense potential, our universities remain underachieving and unable to shine,” he added.
In addressing the issue of indiscipline within universities, Prof. Ayorinde called for a self-examination of the academic community to eliminate behaviors that tarnish their reputation. He expressed disappointment over the prevalence of moral and financial corruption, emphasizing the need for universities to produce individuals of integrity.
Discussing the challenging conditions of service, he noted that many university workers, including Vice Chancellors, earn salaries that fail to reflect their responsibilities and contributions. “No professor earns above N500,000, which is appalling given the economic realities,” he stated. This disparity has demotivated many in academia, impacting the quality of education.
Prof. Ayorinde advocated for “true autonomy” for universities, arguing that institutions should operate independently to achieve their goals. He also stressed the importance of continuous training and strengthening postgraduate schools to enhance the quality of education.
In his tribute, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, praised Prof. Ayorinde as a distinguished academic and administrator who played a crucial role in elevating the university's status both nationally and internationally. Prof. Egbewole, represented by former Provost Prof. A.B.O. Omotoso, commended Ayorinde's contributions, including the implementation of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) in Nigeria.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a book titled “K. L. Ayorinde In Our Own Eyes,” celebrating his legacy. Notable attendees included university registrars, former Vice Chancellors, and academic dignitaries, all acknowledging Prof. Ayorinde’s lasting impact on the institution and its students.
As he steps into retirement, Prof. Ayorinde leaves behind a call for reform that aims to revitalize Nigeria's university system and ensure it meets the needs of its society effectively.
