By: IndyPress News Desk 

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, on November 17, 2025, delivered what could be described as the state of the University address.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed the state of the University during the 77th Convocation Ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, UI.

His address touched on security improvements, infrastructural challenges, the accomplishments of some students of the University of Ibadan on national and global stages, among others.

On security, the University management, according to the Vice-Chancellor, intensified collaborations with the Oyo State Police Command to reinforce the University Security Unit.

Professor Adebowale said, ”Security challenges have emerged as a major topic of discussion and a significant source of concern over the past years. This underscores why Management has remained resolute and unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property on the main and other campuses.”

“Among the several methods adopted was enlisting the assistance of the Oyo State Police Command to support the University Security Unit in order to ensure continued safety and security on our campuses.

“As a result, incidents of security breaches have significantly declined, and a sense of safety prevails across our campuses. In this regard, we must express our profound appreciation to the Chairman, Council Committee on Security, Professor S. G. Jonathan, for the commendable effort of his committee.

“The administration is committed to providing the necessary support to the Security Unit to sustain the progress achieved in securing the campuses.”

The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged that UI continues to battle major systemic challenges. Chief among the challenges, he said, is the rising cost of electricity, worsened by the University’s recent categorisation as a Band A consumer.

He added, “One of such challenges is the issue of power supply, as a substantial portion of our resources is expended on powering the University. With the recent developments in the power sector, our monthly electricity bill has more than doubled what it used to be.

“The University had been categorised as a Band A user. To mitigate the power challenge, this administration will explore alternative sources of energy. Management has opened communication with the Federal Ministry of Power on this issue.

“On this quest, I plead with stakeholders to kindly support the University with all means at their disposal.Other challenges the University grapples with include internet connectivity, maintenance of existing buildings and infrastructure, given the age of University of Ibadan and the growing need for expansion.”

Professor Adebowale further mentioned that the university has opened discussions with the Federal Ministry of Power and will explore alternative energy sources.

He also highlighted difficulties related to aging infrastructure, maintenance, and ‘internet connectivity issues affecting the University community.

Professor Adebowale, in his charge to the Nigerian federal government, said, “The University of Ibadan deserves to be accorded special priority through dedicated reconstruction and rehabilitation funds.”

He also advocated for the adequate funding of the University as the first tertiary institution in Nigeria.

Regarding student achievements, Professor Adebowale stated,“Our students continue to make Nigeria proud, demonstrating the solid knowledge and rigorous education they have acquired here at the University of Ibadan.”

Concluding his address, Professor Adebowale affirmed, “One area in which we have remained steadfast and uncompromising is our commitment to imparting knowledge.”

He reaffirmed the commitment of the University of Ibadan to remain Nigeria’s intellectual capital and a global destination for excellence.