- January 17, 2025
- Posted by: itmanager
- Category: Uncategorized
In a heartwarming address that resonated with hope and gratitude, the Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), OFR, CON, SAN, LL. D (London), LL. D (UNILAG), LL. D (UI), D. Lit (NDA), FNIALS, FCI. Arb, FNSE, Fellow, King’s College, London, expressed profound appreciation for the university’s meteoric rise since its inception.
Speaking today, Friday, January 17, 2025, at the Founder’s Meeting with Freshers, held at the Alfa Belgore Hall, the Chancellor reminisced about ABUAD’s humble beginnings, stating that “not long ago, this place was a thick jungle inhabited by wild animals and reptiles. In January 2010, we had 240 students to start with our 1st academic session, 2009/2010. Today, we are proud to welcome 2,955 prospective students. What a merciful God!”
The joyful atmosphere was further amplified as the iconic tune of King Sunny Ade’ “Merciful God” filled the air, drawing smiles and nods of agreement from an audience of eager fresh students, the management team, and esteemed staff members.
The Prayer God Hears: Hard Work and Dedication
Highlighting the importance of diligence and commitment, the Chancellor emphasized that true prayer lies in utilizing one’s brain, talents, and time effectively. He underscored that while impressive structures form the university’s physical foundation, the students and passionate teachers breathe life into its mission.
The Chancellor singled out the Vice-Chancellor- Prof. E. Smaranda Olarinde, FCArb, FCAI, applauding her quest for excellence and unwavering loyalty to him and the institution.
“As Provost of College of Law, the students performed excellently well, under her leadership winning 24 out of 36 awards at the Nigerian Law School. She works virtually 24 hours a day and throughout the week. She’s very faithful, selfless, industrious and loyal,” Aare Babalola added.
The Chancellor also recognised the outstanding contributions of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Olasupo Ijabadeniyi, and thanked him for his commitment. While acknowledging the Bursar the Registrar, the management staff, Provosts of colleges the Chancellor requested that the lecturers come out for formal introduction. The joyful prospective students received them all with a rousing round of applause.
VC’s Wise Counsel to Fresh Students
In her welcome remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, urged the new students to remain focused and resilient in their academic pursuits. She acknowledged that the journey at ABUAD is rigorous but rewarding, encouraging them to embrace successes and learn from failures, as both are integral parts of the journey to success.
“Do not fear failures; instead, learn from them,” she advised
Using the acronym “FRESH,” she reminded the young prospective students of the new opportunities and the “fresh breeze” that success brings when one is focused and disciplined.
The newly appointed commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, CP. Joseph Eribo, who also graced the event, congratulated the Freshers for joining the Institution which is “known for excellence in character and learning”, and urged them to put in all efforts while studying to achieve their goals.
Testimonials from Student Leader & Alumna
Asala Ayodeji, the President of the Law Students Society (LSS), College of Law, ABUAD, shared an inspiring testimonial with the newly admitted students. Drawing from his five-year experience at the university, he assured them that ABUAD is a nurturing environment where dreams are realized.
“I used to be a shy and timid person before joining ABUAD,” he recounted, adding that “however, during my time here, I have been transformed into a confident individual. This university equips its students with the courage and confidence needed to succeed.”
Dr. Oguntope Sobajo, an alumna of the institution and a proud member of its inaugural graduating class in 2013, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God for her achievements. She attributed her success to the sacrifices of her parents and the excellent values instilled in her by her alma mater, ABUAD, which shaped her into the accomplished lecturer she is today at Afe Babalola University.
Founder’s Freshers Interaction: A Golden Opportunity
The Freshers expressed their gratitude to the Chancellor, who through his amazing vision birthed the University of their dreams. Their judgement, of ABUAD being the most preferred university, was based on the institution’s remarkable achievements. Afe Babalola University has been ranked by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, 2024, as number one university in Nigeria for three consecutive years and number one globally in Outreach, Stewardship and UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Clean and Affordable Energy).
No wonder one of the many questions asked by the students is still resonates as a deep echo; ” Mr. Chancellor Sir, what is the secret of your success?” the Chancellor responded that his way of life from the cradle, has been; hard work, discipline, determination, trust in God and good luck.
A Bright Future Ahead
The event concluded with renewed optimism among the prospective students, inspired by the words of wisdom from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, students and alumna’s leaders. ABUAD continues to stand as a beacon of academic excellence, shaping leaders who will make much awaited impacts in society. With such a promising start, the newly admitted students are poised to achieve great heights in their journey at ABUAD.
ABUAD Registrar- Lady Christie Oluborode, in her Vote of Thanks, re-emphasized the Founder’s words, charging the Freshers to be dutiful, focused and take full advantage of the opportunities the University offers.
From the VC’s Desk,
Professor Elisabeta Smaranda OLARINDE, FCAI, FCArb,
Vice-Chancellor, ABUAD
17th January, 2025