By Ayodele Abere
Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI) has decorated its pioneer Vice Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, in recognition of his meritorious service, outstanding performance and dedication during his 5-year stint at the Citadel of Learning.
This decoration, is part of the activities lined up in celebration of the second convocation ceremony of the Institution.
Recall that when Professor Adeoluwa took the helm in 2020, he inherited more than just a newly upgraded institution but the monumental task of converting a legacy College of Education into a competitive, multi-disciplinary university.
Under his leadership, BOUESTI saw an explosion in enrollment, skyrocketing from a modest 2,401 students at its inaugural matriculation in 2021 to nearly 23,000 by early 2026, as well as producing 38 Professors.
This growth was supported by a rigorous drive for National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation, ensuring that every new program met the highest national standards.
The university’s rise did not go unnoticed internationally; in 2023, the institution was named the “Outstanding University of Education in Africa”;during the Africa Education Summit held in Rwanda.
Professor Adeoluwa’s vision for a “Smart School” is etched into the campus landscape such as the establishment of a solar-powered technology hub, providing the university community with 24-hour free internet access.
His administration also delivered a modern multipurpose hall, establishment of the College of Postgraduate Studies, introduction of Smart School facilities to integrate digital pedagogy into everyday learning, revamping of campus road network, aesthetic beautification projects, among other initiatives.
Speaking at the event, the Pro-Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Patrick Oladipo Aina, described himself as a proud father who witnessed the overwhelming achievements of a successful Leader, whose leadership has inspired not only productivity but purpose.
He also eulogised him for this unwavering commitment to excellence, stressing that he has accomplished the assignment entrusted to him in honour.
In her remarks, the Registrar of the Institution, Adenike Adeusi hailed Professor Adeoluwa for his uncommon dedication, strategic foresight and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
She said that under his leadership, BOUESTI has grown in leaps and bounds in terms of academics, structure and administration, which enabled the Citadel of Learning to earn recognition and respect within a remarkable short period as the fastest growing state university in Nigeria.
The Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Andrew Omojola, hailed his predecessor for making the journey easy for him, describing him as a humble man to the core, who go extra miles for the advancements and progress of his subordinates.
He also appreciated the staff members and students of the Institution for their cooperation during his administration, saying such support made his journey as the pioneer Vice Chancellor to be interesting and achieve a lot of accomplishments.
In a similar development, the University also named a multi-purpose hall after the maiden Vice Chancellor, in recognition of his visionary leadership, dedication and invaluable contributions to the rapid growth of the University.
Commissioning the project, the Pro-Chancellor of BOUESTI and Chairman of Council, Professor Patrick Oladipo Aina said, “This is what happens when University move beyond its grievance to become one of the best.
“Institution grow because someone choose to lead with purpose at a critical time and that legacy is built though consistent, discipline and service.
“This was what he did when he was leading this university. He moved this university from heritage to transformation , from uncertainty to direction, this is befitting.
“This honour is a lasting legacy, you truly deserve it. May this building stand as a monument for enduring impact”.
In his response, Professor Olufemi Adeoluwa identified the student body as the ultimate backbone of his administration, revealing the intense pressures they faced to undermine his leadership.
He hailed the students as his greatest strength, disclosing a dramatic period where external actors attempted to weaponize the youth for political gain but declined it.
Professor Adeoluwa credited his rise to the mentorship of Professor Patrick Aina, who appointed him Deputy Vice Chancellor in 2014 despite having no prior personal relationship.
He noted that this act of faith inspired a lifelong commitment to never disappoint those who believe in him.
His words, “I’m overwhelmed today for the love and show today. The celebration of today is that of professor Patrick Aina, because what ever I’m doing today, it’s because of him.
“He made me Deputy Vice Chancellor in 2014 without knowing me and I made up my mind that I would not disappoint him.
“I’m honoured to be here today, I have become part and parcel of this place. I thank the Vice Chancellor for allowing this to happen, I want to say thank you very much for that, may God bless you abundantly for that.
“The greatest strength I have as a Vice Chancellor in the school are the students. They were given money to demonstrate against me, they were taken to Government House to write a petition against me but they declined it”.
