University of Ibadan Commissions New Security Post at Faculty of Education

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has commissioned a newly constructed security post at the Faculty of Education, donated by two alumni of the institution, Rear Admiral A. L. Akintola (Rtd.) and Rear Admiral B. O. Oguntola (Rtd.).

The Vice-Chancellor described the project as a significant contribution to the University’s security infrastructure and overall institutional development, noting that the facility would strengthen access control and improve safety within the Faculty of Education.

Professor Adebowale stated that the project goes beyond the construction of a security post, as it also serves as a facelift for the faculty’s main entrance, enhancing both security operations and the physical outlook of the environment.

He expressed appreciation to the donors for their generosity and commitment to supporting the growth of the University, stressing that government funding alone is no longer sufficient to meet the increasing needs of public universities in Nigeria.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the University’s government allocation remains inadequate compared to its rising operational expenses, while internally generated revenue has also become insufficient to cover growing institutional costs.

He explained that this challenge informed the University’s renewed efforts to strengthen engagement with alumni and other well-meaning individuals through the Office of Alumni Relations (OAR).

Professor Adebowale disclosed that about 70 per cent of the University’s alumni from inception have been captured and documented in the institution’s database, adding that the University is working to address identified gaps and build stronger alumni partnerships.

He noted that despite the challenges facing the institution, the University of Ibadan, after 78 years, continues to preserve the legacy established by its founding fathers through a commitment to excellence, integrity, and service.

Speaking on the project, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Kehinde Kester, explained that the idea of constructing the security post was conceived shortly after he assumed office due to the need for a more befitting security facility for the faculty.

He noted that the previous security structure was inadequate and unsuitable, prompting the development of plans for a modern and aesthetically designed security post.

Professor Kester appreciated the donors for sponsoring the project, describing the facility as an important addition that would improve security and enhance the appearance of the faculty environment.

Speaking on behalf of the donors, Rear Admiral A. L. Akintola (Rtd.), who is an alumnus of the University, said the project was motivated by the support and encouragement they received during their doctoral studies at the Faculty of Education.

He described the initiative as a way of giving back to the institution and faculty that played a significant role in their academic development, adding that earning a Ph.D. from the University of Ibadan was a transformative experience.

The newly constructed security post was officially opened by the Vice-Chancellor, who was later conducted on a tour of the facility by the Dean, alongside the donors and members of the faculty community.

The project reflects the growing role of alumni contributions in supporting infrastructure development and strengthening the sustainability of Nigerian public universities.