The outgoing Vice Chancellor (VC) of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Professor Timothy Adebayo, has been described as an exceptional and distinguished administrator.
The Governing Council of the institution, under its Chairman and Pro Chancellor, Dr Olutoyin Okeowo, gave the adulations during a ceremony held to celebrate Professor Adebayo, on Wednesday,
The tenure of Adebayo, whose leadership as the ACU VC over the past five years has elevated the institution to new heights, will come to an end by the end of September.
Speaking at the meeting of the ACU Governing Council, Dr Okeowo, said the external auditor’s report submitted to the council indicated tremendous growth.
Okeowo, who also unveiled Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole as the incoming ACU VC, said: “Between the period that Professor Adebayo became the VC in 2020 and now, this university has witnessed tremendous growth.
“I must say that this growth is being recorded at a time that the nation is going through a challenging economy.
“Those in economic management and finance expert will understand this; if you look at the micro economic indices of the country in the past five years, you would see that it has been quite challenging.
“Most institutions that are not well managed or do not have someone that is very creative and disciplined at the helms of affairs are not likely to stand the economic storm we have had in this country.
“But Professor Adebayo has been able to ensure yearly growth of this university. I want to say this is highly commendable. On behalf of Anglicans in the Supra West, I want to say thank you.”
The Pro Chancellor expressed appreciation for the support of the university’s management, principal officers and all staff in ensuring the success of Professor Adebayo’s tenure, noting that the council recognises their contributions and remains grateful to everyone.
“In our meeting today [Wednesday], it was made clear that a tree does not make a forest. Professor Adebayo has achieved so much simply because he has a team; dedicated team, principal officers and members of the university’s staff.
“You all contributed to his success in the past five years. So, on behalf of all Anglicans in the Supra West, I want to say thank you to you all. It is a team work that worked so well,” Okeowo added.
The ACU Governing Council chairman restated the goal of the Council to develop the university and elevate its ranking among the best institutions in the world.
“When we came on board, we had a clear goal and objective that this university must be ranked among the best 1000 universities in the world. That is still our objective and I have the assurance that you can still deliver on that,” he said.
Okeowo also introduced Adebayo’s successor, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, calling for the cooperation of all staff to ensure that she also records a successful tenure in office.
“Let me also use this opportunity to welcome the incoming VC, Professor (Mrs) Ebunoluwa Oduwole. She is making history as the first female VC of this university.
“I am sure that you will give her the best cooperation so that she will excel in all ramifications. Support her also with your prayers,” said Okeowo.
Praising the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Archbishop of Ibadan Province, The Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, said it was not a mistake that Adebayo was chosen five years ago to lead the university.
“The choice of Adebayo was not a mistake but a blessing. Under his watch, the university has recorded several achievements in academic and infrastructural developments.
“It means God was with us while making the choice,” said Aladekugbe, who is also a member of the ACU Governing Council.
