All is now set for the 55th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, as Professor Isaac Ayodele Ololade, a distinguished scholar of Environmental Chemistry in the Department of Chemical Sciences, prepares to deliver the institution’s latest instalment in its series of frontier-pushing academic lectures.

The lecture, which promises to be an intellectually stimulating exploration of humanity’s relationship with the natural world, is titled “Environmental Chemistry: The Science Behind a Healthier Planet,” and is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the University Multipurpose Hall.

In a statement, the Chairman of the University Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, confirmed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will preside over the event as Chairman of the occasion. The programme is slated to commence promptly at 2:00 p.m., while guests, dignitaries, and members of the university community are expected to be seated by 1:30 p.m.

Professor Ololade began his academic journey in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Ibadan.

 He obtained a Master of Science degree in Analytical Chemistry from the same institution in 2001. In 2008, he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Chemistry at the Federal University of Technology, Akure. He subsequently completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Environmental Chemistry at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences under the auspices of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2011.

Upon joining Adekunle Ajasin University in 2001 as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Sciences, Professor Ololade progressed steadily through the academic ranks to attain the position of Professor in 2017. Throughout his career, he has been actively engaged in teaching, cutting-edge research, postgraduate supervision, mentoring, and academic advisory responsibilities.

Beyond his scholarly contributions, Professor Ololade has rendered distinguished administrative service to the University. His leadership portfolio includes serving as Dean of the Faculty of Science, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Science, Director of the University Central Research Laboratory, Chairman of the Faculty of Science Postgraduate Committee, Acting Head of the Department of Chemical Sciences, Sub-dean of the Faculty of Science, Coordinator of the Faculty of Science Research Laboratory, Chairman of the Business Committee of Senate on Centre for Basic and Part-Time Studies, as well as Departmental Postgraduate and Seminar Coordinator.

A prolific scholar of international standard, Professor Ololade has authored ninety-six peer-reviewed research articles in reputable local and international journals. He has attended and presented papers at numerous conferences in Nigeria and abroad, including China, Egypt, Italy, Kenya, and the United Kingdom. He has also participated in numerous research initiatives, with several completed studies under review and additional research projects in progress.

In recognition of his academic distinction, Professor Ololade has received several prestigious grants and awards, including the TETFund Institution-Based Research Intervention Fund in 2016, the International Foundation for Science Research Grants in 2012 and 2016, the Adekunle Ajasin University Research Grant Award in 2012, the Chinese Academy of Sciences–Third World Academy of Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship in 2010, the Education Tax Fund Staff Training and Development Award in 2004, and the Travel Grant by the Pan-Africa Network and Royal Society of Chemistry in 2012.

 He has also received a certificate of appreciation for his role on the Scientific Committee of the Second Euro-Mediterranean Conference for Environmental Integration.

He is a member of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry. He is also a Fellow of the Chinese Academy of Sciences–Third World Academy of Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Tension gripped the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC on Tuesday following a violent disruption of a stakeholders’ meeting at the party’s state secretariat in Akure during which a party chieftain, Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, was reportedly assaulted by suspected political thugs.

According to Hon. Ijabiyi, the incident occurred shortly after a meeting convened by the Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, to engage party stakeholders. 

The State meeting was in preparation for the ward congresses taking place tomorrow and the stakeholders were to meet the officials of the party from Abuja who were to conduct the congresses.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the gathering descended into chaos when hoodlums allegedly stormed the secretariat, issuing threats and chanting hostile slogans targeted at perceived enemies of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The assailants were heard shouting that only the governor’s supporters were welcome, warning others to leave or face consequences.

Hon. Ijabiyi who sustained fracture narrated that he narrowly escaped the mayhem by disguising himself as an aide assisting an injured elderly man out of the building. However, upon reaching the ground floor, he was reportedly attacked from behind, sustaining blows to his back and leg, while being verbally abused and labeled with politically charged slurs.

Describing the scene as “total mayhem,” he said the violence created panic among party members and visitors, forcing many to flee the premises for safety. 

He condemned the attack as an assault on democratic engagement and internal party cohesion, warning that such actions, if unchecked, could destabilize the state’s political environment.

Hon. Ijabiyi added that the party Chairman, Engr. Adetimehin escaped into the office of the State Organizing Secretary and locked up the door. The thugs were still hitting the door with threats to destroy him when he left the hall.

The party Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin who was molested, beating and made to sit on the floor on the floor by the suspected members of the NURTW said he had notified the state governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the arrival of the party official from the headquarters and hinted him on the stakeholders meeting.

Engr. Adetimehin who narrated his ordeal with the hoodlums as pathetic, hinted that he notified the state commissioner of police about the stakeholders meeting.

Party leaders like Dr. Kola Ademujimi, a former chief of staff to Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Chief Bode Sunmonu, a former state commissioner escaped with injuries and without their shoes while Barr. Sola Ajisafe was humiliated with beating with his clothes tattered.

Meanwhile Former commissioners, Rasheed Badmus and Saka Ogunleye scaled the fence to escape while Chief Nimbe Tawose ran for his life luckily escaping with a minor head injury.

Party stakeholders and concerned members have since called for an urgent investigation into the incident and decisive action against those responsible.

They also appealed to security agencies and party leadership at the national level to intervene promptly to prevent a recurrence, especially as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Observers note that the incident underscores growing internal tensions within the Ondo APC and have urged leaders to prioritize dialogue, discipline, and inclusiveness to safeguard peace and democratic norms in the state.

…Prof. Olajubu calls for government-funded research, ease of registration of herbal products

A Professor of Medical Microbiology and Public Health at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Festus Olajubu, has said that nature has a solution to all natural problems and illnesses, and declared that herb-based remedies have proven their effectiveness in combating diseases and microbes that have become resistant to synthetic drugs.

He affirmed that, “The failures of major commonly used antibiotics were obvious from various data, and the search for viable, readily available, affordable and potent alternatives to synthetic antibiotics with minimal side effects led to the investigation of many plants and plant parts. The efficacy of most of these nature-endowed products against multidrug-resistant bacteria was proven beyond doubt.”

Prof. Olajubu stated this while delivering the 54th Inaugural Lecture of the institution on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The lecture was titled, ‘The Unwinnable War Against Antimicrobial Resistance: Nature to the Rescue’.

While calling on governments to support research in plant-based antibiotics and ease the licensing and registration of herbal products, he also urged public and private hospitals to allow herbal units to co-exist with pharmacy units, just as he advised the cultivation of ‘herbal gardens’ in individual backyards for easy access to freshly sourced plants.

He further recommended that individuals should avoid the use of leftover antibiotics, always finish the course of treatment, and avoid self-medication; while drug outlets should insist on a prescription sheet before dispensing antimicrobials. He cautioned that veterinarians should make an accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases in animals before administering antimicrobials, just as he called for the establishment of a Department of Complementary/Alternative Medicine in the nation’s tertiary institutions.

The inaugural lecturer, who affirmed that herbal products have come to stay, however, called for stricter hygiene during the production of herbal medicines, and stressed the need for public awareness campaigns in various local languages to help people gain knowledge about antimicrobial resistance.

Prof. Olajubu defined antimicrobial resistance as a ‘situation where the antibiotics once used to treat an infection a few years ago no longer work for the same infection’. He attributed the menace to several factors including overuse and misuse of antibiotics, poor infection prevention and control, poor sanitation and hygiene, global travel and trade, genetic adaptation of bacteria, environmental contamination, inappropriate diagnostic practices, and inappropriate agricultural and veterinary antibiotic use.

On how to stem the rapid spread of drug-resistant microbes, Prof. Olajubu advocated: rational use of antimicrobial drugs and avoidance of self-medication; use of vaccines to reduce the need for future use of antimicrobials; practice of personal hygiene; hospital infection control via adequate disinfection of surfaces and equipment; and the control or total ban of the use of antibiotics for growth promotion in animals.

He also advocated proper wastewater treatment and disposal, enforcement of policies on antimicrobial use, public awareness campaigns on the risks of antimicrobial resistance, and massive support for research into novel antimicrobials and alternative therapies.

 He concluded by saying, “The most effective response to antimicrobial resistance integrates human health systems, veterinary services, agricultural practices, and environmental management.”

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the ceremony and Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the lecturer as an accomplished academic and researcher who has proven his mettle in the academic world.

He explained that inaugural lectures were avenues for varsity dons to share their experiences in the research arena and make recommendations that would benefit the wider society. He urged the gathering to imbibe the lessons and recommendations of the lecture in order to safeguard their health.

As part of activities marking the golden jubilee of Ondo State, Dr. Chief Omotayo S. Alle, the Bobagunwa of Ode Omi, has been honoured with the Ondo State @ 50 Icon of the Year Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanity and community development.

The prestigious honour was presented at a colourful and well-attended ceremony organised by Platform and Hero Magazine International, a media organisation renowned for celebrating excellence, leadership and service across various sectors of society. The event was held at the International Event and Culture Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Ondo State capital.

The award plaque, specially designed to reflect Ondo State’s 50 years of progress and resilience, symbolised the core values of selfless service, visionary leadership and commitment to societal growth, which the golden jubilee represents.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, commended the organisers for consistently spotlighting individuals whose lifelong dedication has positively impacted their communities and the larger society. He described the award as a timely reminder that sustainable development is driven by integrity, sacrifice and service to humanity — qualities he noted are exemplified by Dr. Alle.

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Dr. Sunday Akinbiola of Platform and Hero Magazine International said the honour was conferred after a thorough and careful assessment of Dr. Alle’s track record of service, particularly his unwavering commitment to community upliftment, philanthropy and the promotion of responsible citizenship.

He added that the award aligns with the vision of the Ondo State @ 50 celebrations, which seek to recognise and celebrate citizens whose contributions have helped shape the state’s growth and development over the past five decades.

The presentation added colour and significance to the golden jubilee celebration, as dignitaries, stakeholders and guests offered goodwill messages and congratulated the awardee on his enduring legacy of service.

The Ondo State @ 50 Icon of the Year Award bestowed on Dr. Chief Omotayo S. Alle stands as both recognition and inspiration — honouring a life dedicated to service while encouraging others to contribute meaningfully to the continued progress of Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

Speaking with journalists after the awards, Dr. Chief Omotayo S. Alle expressed joy over the recognition of his humanitarian and philanthropic efforts and promised to embark on more people-oriented initiatives.

Dr. Alle thanked the organisers for the honour bestowed on him, describing Ondo State as a source of pride.

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has urged members of the University Registry to ensure institutional information is consistently accurate, current, and well-managed. He emphasised that an efficient and responsive registry system is central to the university’s sustainable growth, credibility, and overall effectiveness.

Prof. Ige made these remarks on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the 3rd Annual Registry Lecture. The event was held under the theme, “The University Registry: A Silent but Indispensable Pillar of University Administration.” 

The VC underscored the Registry’s strategic role as the University’s administrative nerve centre, stating that sound record-keeping and information management are indispensable for governance and advancement. He equally stressed the value of the programme, describing it as a rich opportunity for learning, reflection, and professional growth.

The Vice Chancellor commended the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, for his foresight and commitment in sustaining the Annual Registry Lecture. He described the initiative as a significant and enduring contribution to administrative capacity building and professional development within the University system. Prof. Ige also expressed profound appreciation to the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Bode Ayorinde, Founder and Pro-Chancellor of Achievers University, Owo, for his passion for education and his willingness to share valuable insights and practical experiences.

Prof. Ige further urged stressing that the programme presented a rich opportunity for learning, reflection, and professional growth.

In his welcome address, the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, described the event as the final edition of the Annual Registry Lecture under his tenure, as he prepares to retire in the coming weeks. He expressed optimism that the impact of his service and contributions to the development of Adekunle Ajasin University would remain enduring and appreciated.

Mr. Arajulu thanked the Vice Chancellor for his unwavering support and steadfast commitment to the pursuit of sustainable achievements within the University.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Prof. Bode Ayorinde examined the core functions of the University Registry, the division of responsibilities within it, and the major challenges confronting Registry operations in Nigerian universities, with particular reference to public institutions.

According to him, “The Registry may be silent, but without it there would be no order and uniformity in the University, because it gives structure to university dreams. Regardless of the quality of leadership or academic brilliance of a Vice Chancellor and Council members, a functional Registry remains the institutional backbone.”

He affirmed that, “The Registry is an essential and indispensable pillar of university administration, without which the modern university cannot function effectively.”

Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards of honour to the Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, the Guest Speaker, and the University Librarian.

Distinguished Professor of Medical Microbiology and Public Health at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Festus Olajubu, will deliver the institution’s 54th inaugural lecture on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The lecture, entitled “The Unwinnable War Against Antimicrobial Resistance: Nature to the Rescue”, will be held at the University Multipurpose Hall. The event will commence at 2:00 PM, with guests expected to be seated by 1:30 PM.

The Chairman of Ceremonies and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, confirmed in a statement that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will preside over the occasion.

Prof. Olajubu’s academic journey began in 1987 when he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from Ogun State University, Ago Iwoye (now Olabisi Onabanjo University). He earned a Master of Science degree in Medical Microbiology from the same institution in 2000. In 2010, he completed his PhD in Medical Microbiology and Public Health at the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

He joined the staff of Adekunle Ajasin University in 2011 as a Lecturer I in the Department of Microbiology, rising steadily through the ranks to become a professor in 2020.

Prof. Olajubu has served the university in several capacities, including as Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Acting Head of the Microbiology Department, Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Science, Chairman of the Faculty of Science Quality Assurance Committee, Acting Director of the Industrial Training Unit, and Acting Director of Research and Development.

An accomplished scholar, Prof. Olajubu has contributed to two published books and authored 50 research articles. He has also attended and presented papers at numerous local and international conferences in countries such as Canada, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, and the United States.

He is a member of several professional bodies, including the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM), the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), the Nigerian Society for Microbial Ecology (NSME), the Nigerian Biological Safety Association (NiBSA), and the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID).

Beyond membership, Prof. Olajubu is a Fellow of the West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (FWAPCMLS) and the Nigerian Society of Microbial Ecology (NSME), an International Federation of Biological Associations Certified Professional (IFBA-CP), and an appointed Mentor under the American Society for Microbiology Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (FLMF).

Outside the university, Prof. Olajubu also serves as the Coordinator for the South West wing of the Nigerian Biological Safety Association (NiBSA), a reviewer for numerous local and international journals, and an external assessor for several Nigerian universities.

In recognition of his scholarly achievements, he has received numerous awards and grants. These include a National Award of Excellence from NAMS (2019), a TETFUND Institution Based Research Grant (2015), a Europa Organization Africa Pty Ltd Travel Scholarship (2016), a Travel Grant from Keystone Symposia (2017), and a Travel Grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (2018).

…says institution admits only best candidates

* As university matriculates 8,000 for 2025/2026 session

New students at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), have been charged to adhere strictly to university rules, maintain discipline, and prepare for rigorous academic work.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, gave the charge during his address at the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session on Thursday, 29 January 2026.

In his address, Prof. Ige stated that the matriculation formally inducted the 8,000 new students into the institution, marking the beginning of their journey to achieve their aspirations. He noted that they were the most qualified candidates selected from over 18,000 applicants, a process which reflected the University’s unwavering commitment to merit.

“This University does not lower its standards to fill its halls; it raises individuals to meet its standards,” he declared.

The Vice Chancellor was unequivocal on conduct, declaring a zero-tolerance policy towards social vices. “This University has zero tolerance for all forms of social vices, including but not limited to examination misconduct, indecent dressing, cult activities, rape, and robbery. Any student caught engaging in any such vices will be summarily expelled.”

He cautioned that the privilege of admission carried significant responsibility, framing the University’s mission on an “unshakable tripod: Academic Excellence, Moral Uprightness, and Service to Humanity.”

“Shun intellectual laziness and the corrosive plague of examination malpractice,” Prof. Ige urged. “Your greatest asset here is your integrity. On moral uprightness; we expect, and will enforce, decent dressing, respect for all, and zero tolerance for social vices… You are now ambassadors of your families and of this University.”

He further encouraged students to use their knowledge as a tool for lifting others and solving societal problems.

Acknowledging the pressures of academic life, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the robust support structures in place, including academic advisers and the Counselling and Human Development Centre. “Do not struggle in silence. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” he assured them.

Concluding, he charged the students: “See this Matriculation not as an end, but as a glorious beginning… The world is waiting for the unique contribution that only you – forged in the crucible of AAUA – can provide.”

Earlier, the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, administered the Matriculation Oath, with the students pledging to abide by the University’s regulations and uphold its image.

The ceremony was attended by the University’s Principal Officers, staff, members of the community, and the students’ parents and well-wishers.

The Registrar of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, has been honoured for his professional excellence, winning the ‘Akoni Oodua Heritage Education Merit Award 2025’.

The award, presented by the Oodua Edu-Essence Magazine, recognises him as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding leadership personalities in education for the year. 

The ceremony was held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the Enuwa (Ile Oodua) Palace of the Ooni of Ife, under the theme: ‘Searching through the Role of Indigenous Knowledge in the Educational Development of Nigeria’.

The event was hosted by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. Other dignitaries included the Chairman of the PCRC in Ondo State, Chief Gabriel Ariyo, as Father of the Day; the Olori of Ikare Akoko, Folasade Momoh, as Mother of the Day; and Prof. Adeola Falaiye of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, as Guest Speaker.

The award was formally presented to Arajulu in his office on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. During the presentation, the coordinator, Asiwaju Temidayo Ayodele, stated that the Registrar was chosen for his “diligence, dedication to duty, exemplary leadership abilities, and unwavering commitment to excellence,” adding that he had brought “a touch of excellence, honour, and integrity” to his role.

In his acceptance remarks, Arajulu thanked the organisers for the honour, stating it would motivate him to maintain the highest professional standards as the university’s Chief Administrative Officer.

This award follows the recent recognition of the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Olugbenga Ige, who was named among Nigeria’s Best Performing Vice Chancellors by the internationally recognised TELL newsmagazine.

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, has announced the selection of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, among the 20 Best Performing Vice-Chancellors in Nigeria by TELL Communications Limited, publishers of TELL Magazine.

The recognition, which appeared in a special edition of the magazine themed “Integrity in Leadership: 20 Best Performing Vice Chancellors in Nigeria” and published between December 29, 2025, and January 5, 2026, highlights exemplary leadership within Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

In a statement signed by Victor A. Akinpelumi, Deputy Registrar, Information, Protocols and Public Relations, and Head, Radio AAUA 90.3FM, the university described the honour as a reflection of Prof. Ige’s visionary leadership, commitment to academic excellence and the positive transformation recorded at the institution since he assumed office.

According to the statement, TELL Magazine noted that the selection celebrates vice-chancellors who demonstrate exceptional leadership in the day-to-day administration and strategic direction of their institutions.

 Prof. Ige’s inclusion, it added, underscores his integrity, innovative governance style and dedication to advancing Adekunle Ajasin University’s mission at national and global levels.

The statement further said the entire university community, staff, students, alumni and stakeholders, has congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on the national recognition, describing it as both a personal achievement and a testament to the collective progress and positive academic culture fostered under his leadership.

Prof. Ige has received several other honours for his contributions to education, research and public service. He was named Ondo State Pillar of Education by Hero Magazine in 2020 and recognised as a Role Model in Ondo State by Sunshine Standard Magazine in 2021.

He has also been honoured with awards from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Federal Road Safety Corps and the Yoruba Parapo Youths Movement, among others. His scholarly achievements earned him an Award of Excellence as the Most Outstanding Science Professor in Nigeria, while his humanitarian efforts have been recognised by the National Association of Students with Special Needs.

Most recently, Prof. Ige received the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity from the Southern Youth Forum.

The university has urged its community to share in the pride of the achievement and to continue supporting the vision that has earned its Vice-Chancellor national acclaim.

Ondo PBAT Mandate Elders Forum has congratulated Mrs. Yinka Tunji-Ojo, revered matriarch and mother of the Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on the occasion of her birthday.

In a congratulatory message, the Forum described Mrs. Yinka Tunji-Ojo as a woman of grace, strength and exemplary virtues, whose life of discipline, sacrifice and nurturing has clearly reflected in the outstanding leadership qualities and sterling performance of her son in national service.

According to the Elders, the values of integrity, compassion, resilience and commitment to humanity which Mrs. Tunji-Ojo instilled are evident in the people-oriented leadership style of the Honourable Minister, particularly his consistent support for elders, the vulnerable and the broader Nigerian society.

The Forum noted that mothers occupy a sacred place in nation-building, stressing that Mrs. Yinka Tunji-Ojo’s contributions transcend family boundaries and extend to the positive impact her upbringing continues to have on Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

“As elders, we celebrate Mama on this special day and pray that Almighty God grants her long life in good health, abundant joy and continued fulfilment. May she live to witness greater achievements, honour and success in the lives of her children and generations yet unborn,” the statement read.

The Forum further wished Mrs. Yinka Tunji-Ojo a peaceful, memorable and fulfilling birthday celebration, while reaffirming its respect and admiration for her invaluable role as a mother and pillar of support.

The statement was signed by Chief Erastus Akeju, Chairman; Hon. Ebenezer Alabi, Secretary; and Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, Facilitator of the Ondo PBAT Mandate Elders Forum.