The Governing Council of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, has announced the appointment of Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole as the university’s new Vice-Chancellor.
This information was disclosed through an official statement issued by the university and made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday.
In the statement, the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Timothy Adebayo, was commended as an exceptional and distinguished administrator, whose leadership over the past five years significantly elevated the institution’s status.
Prof. Adebayo’s tenure as VC will conclude at the end of this month.
During a ceremony held to honor Prof. Adebayo following the Governing Council meeting on Wednesday, Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo, Chairman of the Council and Pro-Chancellor of the university, expressed that the external auditor’s report showed remarkable growth under his leadership. He also officially introduced Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole as the incoming Vice-Chancellor.
Okeowo remarked, “Since Prof. Adebayo assumed office in 2020, the university has experienced tremendous growth, even amid the challenging economic conditions Nigeria has faced over the past five years.
“Those with expertise in economics and finance will understand that, given Nigeria’s microeconomic indicators, it has been a tough period. Many institutions without strong management or creative, disciplined leadership could have struggled or failed. But Prof. Adebayo has ensured consistent yearly growth for this university. That’s highly commendable. On behalf of Anglicans in the Supra West, I say thank you.”
He also appreciated the support of the university’s management, principal officers, and staff, acknowledging their contributions to Prof. Adebayo’s success and emphasizing that the council recognizes their efforts.
Okeowo added, “A single tree does not make a forest. Prof. Adebayo’s achievements are the result of a dedicated team—including principal officers and staff—whose collective effort made this possible. I thank you all. It’s teamwork that has driven our success.”
The council chairman reiterated the university’s goal to develop and improve its global ranking, stating, “When we took office, our clear objective was to position this university among the top 1000 in the world. That remains our target, and I am confident we will achieve it.”
Furthermore, Okeowo welcomed Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, noting that she will make history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University. He appealed for the staff’s full cooperation and support, including prayers, to ensure her successful tenure.
“Let me also warmly welcome Prof. Mrs. Ebunoluwa Oduwole as she begins her leadership. I am sure you will give her your best support so she can excel in every aspect,” he said.
During the event, Archbishop of Ibadan Province, The Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe—who is also a member of the governing council—praised Prof. Adebayo’s leadership, emphasizing that his selection five years ago was no mistake but a divine blessing.
He stated, “Choosing Adebayo was not a mistake but a blessing. Under his leadership, the university has achieved significant academic and infrastructural milestones. This shows that God was with us when we made that decision.”
Prof. Adebayo, in his speech on June 20, 2025, lauded the Mind Education programme, describing it as a “highly impactful initiative” that is already producing positive results for students.
He highlighted the success of a recent three-day Mind Education Camp, organized by the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Ronke Ogunmakin, and supported by Mind Educators from South Korea, emphasizing the programme’s global reach and proven effectiveness.