UNILORIN Honors Founding Dean Late Prof. John Omoniyi Abiri at Final Rites in Ile-Ife
University of Ilorin Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, leads a tribute to the late Prof. John Omoniyi Abiri, with family announcing a scholarship and foundation in his memory.
Mary Nwaeze 
The University of Ilorin recently honored the memory of its esteemed founding Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. John Omoniyi Abiri, during his final burial rites held in Ile-Ife, Osun State on July 13, 2024. The event, attended by various dignitaries, academic figures, and community members, took place at the Cathedral Church of St Phillips in the Ayetoro area.
Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, led a delegation of top university officials to the ceremony. Although the Vice Chancellor was unable to attend personally, his tribute was delivered by Prof. Abayomi Omotesho, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic). Prof. Omotesho praised Prof. Abiri as a dedicated scholar and mentor whose contributions significantly shaped the University and the broader academic community.
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In a touching tribute, Prof. Abiri’s children, spearheaded by Prince (Dr) Oyelola Abiri, announced the establishment of a scholarship and foundation in their father's honor. The scholarship will support students pursuing education and research in Prof. Abiri’s fields of expertise. The foundation will focus on advancing educational development and community service at the University of Ilorin, where Prof. Abiri had a profound impact.
Prince Oyelola Abiri, a medical doctor based in the UK, described his late father as a caring and influential figure who profoundly touched many lives. He highlighted that the scholarship and foundation are meant to preserve Prof. Abiri’s legacy and continue inspiring future generations.
Prof. Omotesho further emphasized that Prof. Abiri was not only a founding Dean but also a cornerstone of the University’s growth. His contributions to education and research have left a lasting imprint on students and the academic community.
Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Lasiele Alabi Yahaya, also paid tribute, calling Prof. Abiri a “unique breed” and a “gift to humanity.” Prof. Yahaya assured that Prof. Abiri's legacy would continue to influence and inspire.
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The event concluded with a grand reception hosted by Olori Titilayo Abiri, one of the late monarch’s queens, at the Grand Resort in Ajebandele, Ile-Ife. The Vice Chancellor’s delegation included notable figures from the Faculty of Education and Mr. Idris Alooma, General Manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM.
For further information, contact:
University of Ilorin, P.M.B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
Phone: +234810-848-3222, +234807-200-0013
Email: registrar@unilorin.edu.ng, talk2vcoffice@unilorin.edu.ng
