Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, on Monday held an interdenominational prayer session to usher in the new year and seek divine guidance in their activities for 2025.
The event, themed “The Grateful Heart,” took place at the Oodua Auditorium on the university campus. It featured praise and worship sessions as the workers expressed gratitude to God for sustaining them through the past year. Both Bible and Quran verses were read during the program.
Delivering a sermon from 1 Thessalonians 1:18, Pastor Olabode Awe encouraged attendees to maintain a spirit of gratitude to God regardless of life’s challenges. He also emphasized the importance of showing love and support to others, noting that such acts attract divine blessings.
In his address, SSANU Chairman, Comrade Azeez Aguda, pledged the union’s continued support for the university management but called for the payment of outstanding 25% and 35% consequential adjustments as well as the implementation of the new minimum wage for members.
Comrade Aguda also appreciated the university’s alumni leaders for their support.
The university’s Registrar, Dr. Ife Oluwole, commended God’s kindness to the institution, reflected in the successes achieved so far. He encouraged staff members to remain diligent and uphold ethical standards in their duties.
In his goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor of EKSU, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, lauded the university’s achievements, highlighting its academic excellence and a stable academic calendar as reasons for its high demand by prospective students.
Professor Ayodele urged staff to demonstrate greater commitment to their work as a way of justifying the government’s investment in their welfare.
The VC reiterated that the university management would not condone indiscipline or unlawful conduct among employees.
The prayer session marked the beginning of what stakeholders hope will be a successful and impactful year for the university community.
