University of Ibadan New Vice Chancellor Assumes Office

The University of Ibadan has begun a new administrative chapter following the commencement of its new Vice-Chancellor's tenure with plans to strengthen research, improve student services, modernise university operations and reposition the institution for greater global relevance.

The new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba officially assumed office on Monday, November 2, 2026, becoming the institution's 14th Vice-Chancellor. He succeeds Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale.

The assumption-of-office activities included a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Resurrection and an inaugural lecture at Trenchard Hall both within the university's campus in Ibadan, Oyo State.

New UI VC Outlines Leadership Priorities

In his inaugural address, titled "From Tradition to Transformation: A Blueprint for Repositioning the University of Ibadan as an Architect of the Future" , Olapegba presented his vision for the institution and outlined the priorities that would guide his administration.

He identified research development, digital transformation, infrastructure renewal, staff welfare, international partnerships and improved student services as key areas requiring attention.

The new Vice-Chancellor also disclosed plans to develop the university's strategic direction for 2026 - 2031 into a 10-year strategic plan that would guide institutional development.

University Of Ibadan New VC Plans to Improve Students' Experience

On student welfare, Olapegba pledged to improve service delivery, administrative responsiveness, access to information, campus safety and learning facilities.

He also identified digitalisation as an important part of his administration's plans with proposed improvements involving smart classrooms, digital libraries and other technology-driven facilities to support teaching and learning.

On artificial intelligence, he stressed that the university should not remain a passive user of emerging technologies but should contribute to their development, research, regulation and responsible application.

Research Funding and International Partnerships

Olapegba said his administration would pursue a more research-intensive approach, with greater emphasis on producing knowledge that addresses Nigeria's developmental challenges.

He outlined plans to strengthen the university's Research Management Office, improve researchers' capacity to secure grants and encourage collaboration across academic disciplines.

He further identified partnerships with industries, universities and research institutions as important avenues for expanding research opportunities, attracting funding and improving the institution's international standing.

On university financing, he acknowledged the importance of government support but called for the exploration of additional revenue sources, including research grants, endowments, alumni contributions, consultancy services, intellectual property and industry partnerships.

He maintained that efforts to generate additional revenue must not compromise academic values or institutional autonomy.

Oyo State Government Reacts to University of Ibadan Leadership Transition

Governor Seyi Makinde represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal at the ceremony expressed the state government's readiness to collaborate with the university on developmental initiatives.

When did Professor Olapgba Join University of Ibadan

Professor Olapegba joined the University of Ibadan on June 1, 2000, and is a Professor of Psychology in the Faculty of Social Sciences.

He called on the university's staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders to support his administration in strengthening the institution's academic standards, research output and international reputation.

Source: Tribune Online & Punch Newspapers.