"University of Ibadan (UI) Gave Us the Best Education," Says Prince Yemisi Shyllon as Alumni Champion University Advancement

Prince Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon, a prominent global ambassador of African art and culture, lauded the University of Ibadan (UI) for providing him with an exceptional education. During a courtesy visit to UI’s Vice-Chancellor's office, Shyllon an accomplished philanthropist and a celebrated alumnus stated that despite earning degrees from three universities and receiving honors from several others, UI remains unmatched in its impact on his life and career.

Reflecting on his journey as a Mechanical Engineering graduate from UI, Shyllon highlighted the wealth of intellectual talent on campus, urging that these assets be harnessed to tackle Nigeria's national challenges. He previously demonstrated his dedication to UI by donating an iconic sculpture along Oduduwa Road on campus.

Joining Shyllon in paying homage to UI’s role in his success, Pastor Olukayode Pitan, former Managing Director and CEO of the Bank of Industry and a B.Sc. Economics graduate from UI, underscored how the university laid the foundation for his achievements. Pitan emphasized the value of UI’s extensive alumni network, which he believes can be a vital resource for the university’s development and growth.

Both Shyllon and Pitan visited UI to serve as the Chairman and Keynote Speaker, respectively, at the University of Ibadan Research Fair: UI-Town Connect 2024.

Receiving the distinguished alumni, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Peter O. Olapegba, representing the Vice-Chancellor, expressed appreciation for the enduring support and goodwill of UI’s alumni. He noted that UI, like many leading institutions worldwide, depends on the strength of its alumni network for continued progress.

To enhance alumni engagement, Professor Olapegba shared that UI has established an Alumni Office to build a comprehensive database of its over 250,000 graduates. So far, over 60,000 alumni have been registered, enabling better communication and collaboration. He stressed the importance of alumni viewing themselves as custodians of UI, as their degrees remain lifelong assets while government administrations come and go.

Professor Olapegba encouraged alumni to actively contribute to the university’s sustenance and growth, noting that UI boasts numerous researchers whose findings, if properly harnessed, could yield transformative results.

This visit reaffirms UI’s commitment to fostering connections with its alumni and leveraging their expertise and support for the advancement of Nigeria’s premier university.