lLORIN–
As part of its golden jubilee celebration, the University of Ilorin on Tuesday, 16th July 2025, honoured one of its illustrious alumni, Professor Jeleel Olasunkanmi Ojuade, alongside other distinguished personalities, with the prestigious title of ” Unilorin Ambassador .” The grand Investiture Ceremony took place at the University Auditorium, Ilorin, Kwara State.
According to a letter signed by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole, SAN, the recognition affirms the University’s appreciation for Prof. Ojuade’s “steadfast commitment to promoting the ideals and image of the University.” The selection underscores the institution’s tradition of honouring individuals who have become beacons of excellence across diverse fields.
A Legacy of Excellence
Professor Jeleel Olasunkanmi Ojuade, a highly respected academic and cultural scholar, is the Vice Chancellor of Ojaja University (formerly Crown Hill University), located in Eiyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. A Professor of Dance Studies, he has distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s foremost dance scholars and advocates for the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into formal education.
Prof. Ojuade described the honour as a “deeply humbling moment.” In his remarks, he expressed profound gratitude to the University, stating:
“I am immensely grateful to be honoured by my alma mater. I remain committed to upholding the values of truth, dedication to service, and pursuit of academic excellence which Unilorin instilled in me. This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a call to further service in advancing knowledge, culture, and educational transformation in Nigeria.”
A Cultural and Academic Icon
Beyond his administrative role at Ojaja University, Prof. Ojuade has spent decades promoting cultural heritage through academic research, artistic expression, and public scholarship. His groundbreaking work in dance and performance studies has earned him national and international recognition.
He has consistently used his platforms to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, mentoring a new generation of artists and scholars, and contributing to educational policies that champion indigenous African epistemologies.
Unilorin at 50: Celebrating Heritage and Excellence
The 50th Anniversary celebration of the University of Ilorin is a momentous occasion reflecting five decades of academic growth, research innovation, and social impact. Honouring alumni like Prof. Ojuade not only reinforces the institution’s heritage of excellence but also inspires current and future students to strive for distinction.
The Investiture Ceremony brought together leaders in academia, government, culture, and industry—many of whom are products of the University—as a testament to Unilorin’s far-reaching influence in national development.
With visionaries like Prof. Jeleel Ojuade proudly representing its legacy, the University of Ilorin continues to shine as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning.
