By: Sonaike Peter

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olapegba on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, has said that the University of Ibadan would remain a constituency of Late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo.

Professor Olapegba made the remark on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, while receiving members of the Nigerian Academy of Letters who paid a courtesy visit.

“Professor Ayo Banjo was the most profound Vice-Chancellor UI has had. It was not only because he was the longest-serving Vice-Chancellor but also due to his significant contributions to humanity and the legacies that he left behind,” Professor Olapegba said.

“I am happy that the Nigeria Academy of Letters would be honoring the late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo,” he added.

Speaking further, Professor Olapegba stated that he was not surprised when the NAL President revealed that the University of Ibadan has the largest membership in the NAL and the highest number of fellows.

He emphasized that as the first University in the country, many English professors in Nigeria learned from the University of Ibadan.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor assured that the University of Ibadan will continue to produce outstanding individuals both at national and global level.

According to Professor Olapegba, “we need to celebrate Professor Ayo Banjo and keep celebrating him. UI had already immortalized him by naming the Vice-Chancellor’s lodge, Ayo Banjo Manor, while he was still alive”.

Professor Sola Akinrinade, President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, remarked that the University of Ibadan delegates in academics is one of the largest and most formidable.

“The purpose of the visit was to enable the NAL to celebrate the Late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo at an International Symposium organized in his honor because he was the second President of the Academy and one of its pillars,” Professor Sola revealed.

Professor Sola noted that there is a book of tribute for Professor Ayo Banjo which would be presented to his family, while appreciating the University of Ibadan for hosting the Secretariat of the Nigerian Academy of Letters for many years.

Credit – Directorate of Public Communication, UI.