Professor Egbewole Discusses UNILORIN Legacy, Student Loans, and Core Values
UNILORIN’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Egbewole, highlights the university’s commitment to excellence, provides insights on the student loan scheme, and stresses the importance of integrity and proper funding in higher education.
Mary Nwaeze 
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), established in 1975 and renowned as the "Better by Far" university, continues to set the standard for higher education in Nigeria. Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, the institution has maintained its reputation for academic excellence and has been the most sought-after university for Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) candidates for over a decade. In a recent interview with Opeyemi, Professor Egbewole discussed various aspects of the university, including policies for quality education, the proposed student loan scheme, and the institution’s corporate values.
Sustaining Quality Education
Professor Egbewole emphasized the university's rigorous program approval process, involving input from multiple stakeholders, including departments, faculties, and committees. He stated, "Excellence is always the basis upon which we embark on anything." The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of placing the right people in appropriate positions, a practice that has contributed to the university's ongoing success.
On the Proposed Student Loan Scheme
Reflecting on the reintroduction of student loans in Nigeria, Egbewole remarked, "Every idea is good, and the Student Loan Scheme is also a good idea." However, he cautioned that the key challenge lies in its implementation. He stressed the need for transparency in the loan process and the importance of ensuring that loans are awarded based on merit, urging that the system should not be swayed by sentiment.
Core Values and Challenges
UNILORIN's core values—integrity, excellence, and humaneness—play a critical role in navigating challenges faced by the institution. Egbewole stated, “We have zero tolerance for abandoned projects, corruption, cultism, and student misbehavior,” underscoring the commitment to maintaining high standards.
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Advice to Education Stakeholders
Egbewole called for significant changes in the education sector, advocating for adequate remuneration for staff and proper funding for universities. He expressed gratitude to the federal government for easing administrative bottlenecks that previously hindered university operations.
Guidance for Prospective Students
In his advice to admission seekers, Egbewole urged them to adhere to university rules and strive for excellence. "The grilling that we give to our students is to prepare them for the world of work," he noted, encouraging students to be top performers in their fields.
As UNILORIN continues to thrive under Professor Egbewole’s visionary leadership, it remains a beacon of hope for quality education in Nigeria, dedicated to producing graduates who will contribute meaningfully to society.
For more information, contact the University of Ilorin at +234 810-848-3222 or registrar@unilorin.edu.ng.
