By Aishat Oladeji
The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, has commended the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) for its sustained academic excellence, innovation, and contributions to national development.
He gave the commendation in his goodwill message at the university’s 40th Convocation Ceremony held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, which also marked the institution’s Golden Jubilee.
Professor Ribadu congratulated the university’s management, governing council, staff, and students for attaining 50 years of impactful service to the nation. He described the milestone as a reflection of the institution’s resilience and commitment to nurturing excellence in teaching, research, and community development.
“Over the years, the University of Ilorin has recorded many outstanding achievements and continues to distinguish itself as a true centre of excellence,” he said. “Its graduates have excelled in diverse professions, and today we celebrate not only their accomplishments but also their potential to position our nation to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
The NUC boss applauded UNILORIN’s success in attracting over ₦12 billion in grants from both national and international partners in the past two years. He also lauded the university’s digital transformation drive and the effective utilization of TETFund’s ₦1 billion Innovation Hub, describing the projects as clear indicators of its commitment to research and technology advancement.
Ribadu reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to continue supporting Nigerian universities in ensuring quality assurance and compliance with regulatory standards.
“The National Universities Commission remains fully committed to supporting all universities in the Nigerian University System,” he stated. “We will continue to monitor their operations to ensure full compliance with regulatory and quality assurance standards, so that all stakeholders derive maximum value from their investment in higher education.”
Addressing the graduating students, Professor Ribadu congratulated them on their perseverance and urged them to uphold integrity, discipline, and service, values that define the University of Ilorin’s “Better by Far” spirit.
“You are leaving this university not only with academic knowledge but also with the moral grounding and values required to contribute meaningfully to society,” he advised. “Remain worthy ambassadors of this great institution wherever you go.”
He also congratulated recipients of honorary doctorate degrees, describing them as exemplary figures whose achievements continue to inspire excellence and national progress.
Professor Ribadu concluded by expressing optimism that UNILORIN would continue to lead in innovation and quality scholarship, contributing to the nation’s social and economic development.
