UI VC Highlights Importance of Quality Student Housing as Waterbrooks Hostel Opens

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has emphasized the importance of quality accommodation in promoting students’ well-being, safety, and overall development.

Professor Adebowale made the remark during the commissioning of the Waterbrooks Premium Student Accommodation at the University of Ibadan, describing the facility as another milestone in the institution’s efforts to improve the living and learning environment of students through a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) arrangement.

He stated that the University of Ibadan has consistently pursued excellence not only in academics but also in creating an enabling environment that supports student welfare, security, and holistic growth.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, quality accommodation remains a critical component of this objective, and the addition of the Waterbrooks facility further strengthens the university’s student accommodation infrastructure.

Professor Adebowale commended the vision, investment, and partnership that brought the project to fruition, noting that private sector participation remains essential in addressing the growing accommodation needs of students.

He specifically praised the Managing Director of Nathan Price, Mrs. Bola Olajomi Otubu, an alumna of the Department of Psychology, for her commitment to giving back to her alma mater through investment in student development and welfare.

The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the university’s support for initiatives that promote institutional development and enhance the student experience.

In a goodwill message, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Peter O. Olapegba, noted that Nigeria’s higher education system increasingly requires private sector participation, stressing that public universities can no longer rely solely on government funding for hostel development.

He described the Waterbrooks Hostel project as a commendable initiative and referred to Mrs. Otubu as a valuable partner in the university’s development efforts.

Professor Olapegba stated that many federal universities have gradually reduced their direct involvement in student accommodation provision over the past decade, forcing many students to seek accommodation off campus and exposing them to various risks.

He added that the project represents more than a commercial investment, describing it as a genuine contribution to the institution that played a role in the investor’s personal and professional development.

According to him, Mrs. Otubu’s investment in student accommodation would stand as a lasting legacy within the university community.

The Director of Physical Planning and Project Management, Professor B. I. O. Dahunsi, commended the quality of work executed on the project and the standard of materials used during construction.

He disclosed that the university closely monitored every stage of the project, including the design process, material selection, and construction activities, to ensure compliance with quality standards.

Professor Dahunsi stated that concrete samples and other construction materials were subjected to regular laboratory testing throughout the construction period and consistently exceeded required standards.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Nathan Price and promoter of the Waterbrooks Hostel project, Mrs. Bola Olajomi Otubu, expressed appreciation to the University of Ibadan for providing the opportunity to transform the vision into reality.

She explained that the project was conceived not only to provide accommodation but also to create opportunities for students to acquire work skills, internships, and practical experiences that would prepare them for future careers.

According to her, the goal was to build a community where students can belong, aspire, and develop into the best versions of themselves.

Mrs. Otubu expressed confidence in the durability of the facility, stating that it was built on the principles of quality and integrity.

The hostel was officially commissioned by His Royal Highness, Professor A. Titilayo Hassan, Obaruwa I, Elesugbon of Esugbon, Ogun State, a retired academic of the University of Ibadan and father of the Managing Director.