•  Aiyedatiwa lauds university’s intellectual impact, promises funding support
• Pro-Chancellor seeks ₦12bn annual subvention to boost global competitiveness
• VC reels out achievements, delivers valedictory address

The Visitor to Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) and Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended the institution for its vital role in intellectual and human capital development within the state and beyond, pledging to address its funding challenges.

The governor gave the assurance at the university’s 14th Convocation Ceremony held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, where a total of 5,799 students graduated.

Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, the Visitor congratulated the graduands and charged them to excel in their future endeavours while remaining worthy ambassadors of the university and Ondo State.

He commended the university management for successfully steering the institution through challenging times and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the institution financially.

In his address, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, affirmed the council’s unwavering determination to sustain and enhance the institution’s status within the global community of universities.

He stated that AAUA possesses the capacity to emerge as Nigeria’s leading citadel of knowledge and research, and one of the best globally, if adequately funded. To this end, he advocated an annual subvention of ₦12 billion.

Dr. Abayomi noted that the quest to build a globally competitive university reflects the council’s commitment to the attainment of a high-value institution. He said the council had provided quality oversight and worked closely with the Senate to introduce innovative strategies aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and holistic development.

“In our unrelenting aspiration to place the university on the global map, we recognise that this vision requires the support and cooperation of all stakeholders. We have renewed our commitment to the ideals of our founding fathers as we continue to surmount challenges in the pursuit of academic excellence,” he added.

Delivering his valedictory address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, said the university had recorded remarkable progress and sustained its reputation as a leading centre of research and learning under his five-year stewardship.

He disclosed that 32 graduates earned First Class Honours out of the 5,799 graduands, comprising 5,251 undergraduates, 526 postgraduates, and 22 diploma students.

The Vice Chancellor announced automatic employment for all First Class graduates upon the completion of their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme and urged the graduands to uphold the values, discipline, and knowledge imparted by the university.

“Every convocation is a reminder that learning is a lifelong journey that demands discipline, perseverance, and vision. Carry the spirit and values of Adekunle Ajasin University with pride wherever life takes you. Be true ambassadors of integrity, diligence, and service,” he said.

Prof. Ige highlighted achievements recorded in research, academic expansion, staff and student welfare, sports and skills development, as well as strategic partnerships that enhanced the university’s global visibility.

Reflecting on his tenure, he said his vision, upon assuming office on July 7, 2021, was to make AAUA a cynosure of excellence, a goal he said had been substantially realised through collective effort.

On academic integrity, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that all academic programmes had achieved full accreditation, while the number of faculties expanded from seven to ten with the establishment of new faculties of Administration and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Computing, alongside new departments.

He further disclosed that nine AAUA scholars were listed in the 2024 Elsevier–Stanford Global Ranking, a recognition he said underscored the institution’s growing research influence.

Despite financial constraints, Prof. Ige said the university recorded significant infrastructural development, including the completion of new faculty buildings, renovation of lecture halls and hostels, and the upgrading of the Business School in Akure.

As his tenure draws to a close next year, the Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Visitor, staff, students, and unions for their support and cooperation throughout his administration.

The Overall Best Graduating Student, Folake Racheal Omonitan, of the Department of Biochemistry, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.79, attributed her success to focus and determination, urging fellow graduates to pursue their dreams with confidence and resilience.

…Prof. Olayinka lists core pillars for 21st-century-ready institutions

…warns Nigeria risks losing talent unless universities expand capacity

A former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Idowu Olayinka, has highlighted the distinguishing features of 21st-century-compliant universities and outlined measures needed to deepen academic tradition in Nigerian universities.

The factors, according to him, include high-quality human resources, adequate funding, physical and digital infrastructure, innovative and visionary management, pedagogical and intellectual property frameworks, internationalisation, a stable academic calendar, a merit-based admission process, and the provision of affordable, decent hostels on and off campus.

He stated this on Thursday, December 11, 2025, while delivering the lecture for the 14th Convocation Ceremony of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko. The lecture, titled Strengthening the Academic Tradition in the Nigerian University System, was held at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.

Prof. Olayinka urged both public and private institutions to increase investment in the education sector to cater for the growing population and rising demand for higher education in Nigeria. 

He warned that admission seekers would continue to pursue opportunities abroad unless Nigerian universities make deliberate efforts to expand capacity for the increasing number of qualified candidates.

According to him, “Nigeria’s population is expected to grow by approximately 130 million people by 2050, potentially reaching over 400 million and becoming the world’s third most populous nation, surpassed only by India and China. Moreover, the country has a predominantly young population, with around 43 per cent of its citizens under the age of 15 in 2025. As this large youth cohort reaches university age, the number of potential candidates will surge.”

Emphasising the need to maintain a balance between access to university education and the quality and cost of delivering it, he stressed that a university degree remains crucial for improved employment opportunities and social mobility in Nigeria.

Prof. Olayinka identified several contemporary challenges that need to be addressed to strengthen the university system. These include inadequate funding, incessant strikes by staff unions, inefficient service delivery, ageing academic staff, poor teaching and research equipment, limited staff development and low morale, rising operational costs, and a mismatch between universities’ traditional roles and the low-quality skills of graduates, which contribute to skills gaps in the economy.

Bemoaning the implications of recurrent ASUU strikes, he noted that wages earned by Nigerian academics are among the lowest in Africa, discouraging bright individuals from choosing academia as a lifelong career.

He warned, “A nation that impoverishes its teachers undermines its future. Nigeria must learn that intellectual labour cannot be chained, and scholars cannot be caged. Lecturers are global citizens who belong to a borderless world of thought, and a government that fails to honour them is, ultimately, dishonouring itself.”

The professor recommended the recruitment of adequate and qualified staff through competitive and transparent processes to improve the staff-to-student ratio. He added that staff development programmes, including participation in seminars, conferences, and workshops, must be strengthened to support career progression for young academics.

“All teaching staff should continue to be encouraged to maximise the ICT facilities in the university, especially in teaching and supervising postgraduate students. Under special arrangements, supervision of postgraduate students should be allowed for up to three years after a supervisor has retired.”

He further advised that emeritus professors and adjunct staff should be engaged more efficiently, particularly in postgraduate teaching and supervision. He emphasised the need to maintain existing teaching and research facilities and to provide adequate funding for new equipment to support teaching and research.

Prof. Olayinka also underscored the importance of an appropriate mix of early-career academics, Senior Lecturers, and Readers/Professors in departments. This, he said, would ensure systematic succession planning and smooth departmental operations.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the event, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the Convocation Lecture as an opportunity to engage with transformative ideas that should spur authorities to reflect on the future of the university in a rapidly evolving society.

 He commended Prof. Olayinka for consistently upholding academic tradition, describing him as a consummate scholar and visionary administrator.

Prof. Adeleke Omodunmbi Ashogbon, a distinguished scholar in the Department of Chemistry at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), will deliver the institution’s 52nd Inaugural Lecture on Tuesday,  December 16,  2025.

This prestigious lecture series represents a pinnacle of academic achievement at the university, where professors present a definitive account of their research and its impact on society.

Prof.  Ashogbon’s lecture, titled “From Root to Revolution: The Chemistry and Innovation of Modified Starches,” will explore scientific research with significant implications for industries ranging from food science and pharmaceuticals to textiles and sustainable materials. The event will be held at the University Multipurpose Hall.

In a statement released by the Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof.  Adebisi Daramola, guests are requested to be seated by 1:30 PM, with the lecture commencing at 2:00 PM promptly. The event will be chaired by the Vice Chancellor, Prof.  Olugbenga Ige.

Prof. Ashogbon began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Lagos in 1992. He earned an M.Sc. in Chemistry from the same institution in 2000, before obtaining his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, in 2015.

He joined AAUA as an Assistant Lecturer in 2003 and rose to the rank of Professor in 2021.

During his career at the university, he has held several key administrative positions, including Head of the Department of Chemical Sciences (2023–2025), Postgraduate Coordinator, and Coordinator for the University Central Research Laboratory.

A prolific scholar, Prof. Ashogbon has contributed to a scholarly book and authored 44 articles in reputable local and international journals. He also serves as a reviewer for top-tier journals, including Food Chemistry and the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. In a landmark study published by Stanford University and Elsevier, he was ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists.

He has presented his research at international conferences in Ghana and India, and at the American Chemical Society’s Green Chemistry Conference. His professional memberships include the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Chemical Society of Nigeria. In recognition of his teaching, he was named Best Lecturer in his department by the Students’ Chemical Society of Nigeria for the 2013/2014 academic session.

* VC lauds Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to Institution

The Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has disclosed that a total of 32 students will be awarded First Class Degrees during its 14th convocations slated for Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13.

Prof. Ige made this known on Monday during the pre-convocation news conference held in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The Vice-Chancellor said the convocation will witness the award of Higher and Bachelors Degrees as well as Post Graduate Diplomas.

“For this 14th Convocation, a total of 5,799 students from our various Faculties and the Postgraduate School will be conferred with their degrees,” Ige announced.

According to him, 32 of the graduands achieved First Class Honours, and 1,444 earned Second Class Honours (Upper Division).

“3,177 graduands attained Second Class Honours (Lower Division), 582 graduated with Third Class Honours and 16 fell into the category of Pass,” he said.

He explained that the the graduates include 5,252 undergraduates, 526 Postgraduate, 22 Diploma.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the students that bagged first class would be offered automatic employment by the university upon completion of their National Youth Service Scheme.

“We are fully assured that the graduates we release into the society are equipped with the essential skills required to make meaningful contributions to both national and global development.

“Today, I am grateful to God and proud to report that, together, we have made significant strides in every area we targeted.

“Our University has not only sustained its reputation as one of the premier state universities in Nigeria but has also advanced notably in research, digital learning, staff development, and community service.

“We have expanded partnerships, modernised infrastructure, and maintained peace and stability on our campus, even in challenging times.

“None of these achievements would have been possible without the unwavering support of His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Governor of Ondo State and the Visitor to the University, the Governing Council, the Senate, the Management, our dedicated staff and students, our proud alumni, and our host community.” the VC stressed.

Speaking on his achievements, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university had restored academic integrity and ensuring that its programmes and all associated processes were placed on the right course.

“Not only have we sustained all our existing programmes, but we have also significantly broadened our academic landscape by expanding the number of faculties from seven to ten.

“We pursued a vigorous modernisation agenda with the establishment of three new faculties, namely, the Faculties of Administration and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Computing, alongside the new Departments of French, Food Science and Technology and Library and Information Service,” he added

He lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governing Council, the Senate, the management, staff and students, alumni, and host community for their support towards the development of the university.

* VC lauds Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to institution

The Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko(AAUA) has disclosed that a total of 32 students will be awarded First Class Degrees during its 14th convocations slated for Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University , Prof. Olugbenga Ige made the disclosure on Monday during the pre-convocation news conference held in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The Vice-Chancellor said the convocation will witness the award of Higher and Bachelors Degrees as well as Post Graduate Diplomas.

“For this 14th Convocation, a total of 5,799 students from our various Faculties and the Postgraduate School will be conferred with their degrees,” Ige announced.

According to him, 32 of the graduands achieved First Class Honours, and 1,444 earned Second Class Honours (Upper Division).

“3,177 graduands attained Second Class Honours (Lower Division), 582 graduated with Third Class Honours and 16 fell into the category of Pass,” he said.

He explained that the the graduates include 5,252 undergraduates, 526 Postgraduate, 22 Diploma.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the students that bagged first class would be offered automatic employment by the university upon completion of their National Youth Service Scheme.

“We are fully assured that the graduates we release into the society are equipped with the essential skills required to make meaningful contributions to both national and global development.

“Today, I am grateful to God and proud to report that, together, we have made significant strides in every area we targeted.

“Our University has not only sustained its reputation as one of the premier state universities in Nigeria but has also advanced notably in research, digital learning, staff development, and community service.

“We have expanded partnerships, modernised infrastructure, and maintained peace and stability on our campus, even in challenging times.

“None of these achievements would have been possible without the unwavering support of His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Governor of Ondo State and the Visitor to the University, the Governing Council, the Senate, the Management, our dedicated staff and students, our proud alumni, and our host community.” the VC stressed.

Speaking on his achievements, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university had restored academic integrity and ensuring that its programmes and all associated processes were placed on the right course.

“Not only have we sustained all our existing programmes, but we have also significantly broadened our academic landscape by expanding the number of faculties from seven to ten.

“We pursued a vigorous modernisation agenda with the establishment of three new faculties, namely, the Faculties of Administration and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Computing, alongside the new Departments of French, Food Science and Technology and Library and Information Service,” he added

He lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governing Council, the Senate, the management, staff and students, alumni, and host community for their support towards the development of the university.

Members of the academic community are expected to contribute to societal knowledge and advancement through book publication. This remains a vital component of intellectual life in universities.

It also provides a platform for national development through scholarship.

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, stated this on campus on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, while speaking at the public presentation and formal launch of two books authored by a Professor of Philosophy, Benson Akinnawonu.

The books are Critical Thinking, Arguments and Evidence and Fundamental Issues in Epistemology.

The Vice Chancellor emphasised, “As academics, our primary responsibility is to contribute meaningfully to the development of society. One of the most enduring ways to achieve this is by documenting our thoughts for future generations. This is precisely what Professor Akinnawonu has done today.”

Prof. Ige, who applauded the author for bringing greater visibility to AAUA, described him as a diligent and committed member of staff who has served the institution in various capacities. 

“We appreciate his contributions to the intellectual and institutional growth of this university. A book presentation is a crucial aspect of university scholarship, and I encourage you to remain steadfast on this path, for it is the kind of discourse that should define the academic environment,” he added.

In his welcome address, Prof. Akinnawonu explained that the books were conceived as both scholarly texts and practical guides for students, educators, policymakers and individuals who believe that constructive, reasoned dialogue is essential for societal progress.

Speaking on Critical Thinking, Arguments and Evidence, the author said, “In writing this text, I sought to respond to an urgent national and global challenge: the deterioration of rational discourse in public life, the proliferation of misinformation and fake news, and a noticeable decline in the capacity for sound judgement. Our society urgently needs a renewed culture of thinking, one that teaches not only what to think, but how to think.”

He also highlighted the second book, Fundamental Issues in Epistemology: “This work returns to the core philosophical questions concerning knowledge, truth, justification, belief, and the limits of human understanding. In a world shaped by conflicting narratives, disputed facts, and rapidly evolving technologies, epistemology offers the compass with which we navigate complexity.”

Prof. Akinnawonu expressed profound gratitude to the Chief Host, the Vice Chancellor, for his unwavering support for scholarship, research, and intellectual endeavour, support which continues to position AAUA as a leading institution of academic excellence in Nigeria. He also acknowledged the contributions of the book reviewers, Professor Zacchaeus Ogundare and Dr. Joseph Balogun.

In his remarks, the Chairman and Chief Launcher, Dr. Jide Adewinle, FCA, commended the author for consolidating years of academic inquiry and experience into written works. He noted that any scholar who has spent considerable time within the academic environment ought to aspire to such scholarly productivity.

He added that Prof. Akinnawonu had successfully documented his knowledge, experience, and expertise for future generations, researchers, and scholars who will rely on these texts as valuable reference materials.

…says drug resistance worsening malaria burden in Nigeria

A distinguished Professor of Theoretical Physics, Dele Abajingin, has called on governments and stakeholders to prioritise investments in research and innovations that explore alternative remedies for Nigeria’s deadliest disease, malaria.

He argued that traditional methods of preventing and treating malaria have failed to provide a lasting solution. Instead, they have allowed the disease to remain endemic, with parasites becoming resistant to drugs, while the burden of anaemia and other haematological complications persists.

Prof. Abajingin of the Department of Physics and Electronics made this known on Tuesday November 25, 2025, while delivering the 51st Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State. The lecture was titled, “A Low-Value Alternating Electromagnetic Field for Malaria Therapy: A New Dance Step to the Same Old Drummer.”

The physicist noted that malaria remains the leading cause of over one million deaths globally, particularly among children, with more than 300 million acute cases recorded annually. He explained that aside from common symptoms such as high fever, chills, and headaches, the disease could lead to complications including severe anaemia, organ and cerebral damage, and, if untreated, death.

Highlighting the transmission process, the don explained that a mosquito bite injects the malaria parasite (Plasmodium), which, once released into the bloodstream, attacks red blood cells (haemoglobin) by breaking them down into hemes and globin. He added that this process leads to the digestion of the hemes into haemozoin, creating a less toxic environment that aids the survival of the parasite.

Prof. Abajingin stated that his study on the use of electromagnetic fields to reverse haemozoin to hemes, through exposure to an Oscillating Magnetic Field (OMF) using a Helmholtz coil, revealed a reduction in parasitic density and an increase in red blood cell volume. These outcomes, he said, indicate the effectiveness of this approach in treating malaria.

“In malaria therapy, the focus has always been on creating an environment where haemozoin becomes toxic to malaria parasites. This can only be achieved if the haemozoin is broken down into hemes. Results from these studies have shown that an Oscillating Magnetic Field can be used for this purpose.

“The product of this study, as we project its future usage, is seen in the form of a well-designed, unisex corporate electronic suit, which shall be named the ‘HELMHOLTZ JACKET’,” he said.

Prof. Abajingin added that although preventive measures such as insecticide-treated nets and insecticides, as well as pharmaceutical drugs for treatment, exist, the adulteration of many drugs has led to high levels of drug resistance in malaria parasites. This, he said, has rendered them less effective, further underscoring the urgent need for low-value alternating electromagnetic field therapy for malaria.

He recommended: “Nigeria must invest in research and innovation that move beyond the ‘one-size-fits-all’ drug model. The development of adjunctive therapies such as OMF requires infrastructure: research laboratories, biomedical engineering collaborations, regulatory frameworks, and translation pipelines from bench to field.”

Stressing the crucial role of young people in the national response to malaria, Prof. Abajingin urged universities to establish Departments of Applied Electronics to produce graduates equipped with the knowledge to invent and operate electronics-based devices.

According to him, “Nigeria’s young scientists, technologists, biomedical engineers, health-system innovators, biophysicists, electrical engineers, and public health workers should be encouraged and empowered to explore such interdisciplinary frontiers. In doing so, universities and research institutions will become engines of national innovation rather than mere consumers of imported technologies.”

Earlier, while presenting the inaugural lecturer, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the ceremony, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the institution’s inaugural lectures as platforms for professors to present the significant contributions of a lifetime of study to the global pool of knowledge. 

He also commended Prof. Abajingin for his unwavering commitment to academic excellence and for upholding the legacy of the university.

* Deputy Gov, top officials say replacing Akinwumi will be ‘a difficult task’

* Colleagues, Lions Club members celebrate journalist’s humility, professionalism

The Office of the Deputy Governor of Ondo State was on Thursday filled with tributes, emotions, and warm reflections as colleagues, government officials, and members of Lions Club International converged to celebrate the pen-down ceremony of Mr. Bode Akinwumi, a seasoned public-sector journalist renowned for his humility, dedication, and professionalism.

In his tribute at the colourful ceremony, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, said that finding a replacement for Mr. Akinwumi would be extremely difficult, describing him as a man whose capacity, commitment, and loyalty stand far above academic qualifications.

Represented by his Special Assistant on New Media, Mr. Abdurahman Yusuf, the Deputy Governor explained that the outgoing officer embodied the true spirit of service.

The Director of Finance and Administration (DFA), Office of the Deputy Governor, Pastor Fredrick Orunko, described the retiring officer as “humility personified,” noting that he had consistently demonstrated a humane spirit and exceptional passion for his work.

He added that the outgoing officer’s sense of duty and diligence remained a model worthy of emulation by younger civil servants.

The Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Pension Board, Chief Bunmi Alade, also extolled Mr. Akinwumi’s virtues, describing him as a brother and an exceptionally humble officer who has been a good ambassador of his family and the civil service.

He noted that Mr. Akinwumi’s record of diligence, punctuality, and warmth had distinguished him throughout his years of service.

In her remarks, a Past District Governor of Lions Club International, Dr. Kofoworola Jegede, who spoke on behalf of the organisation, commended the celebrant for his selfless contributions to humanity. She said Lion Bode Akinwumi had served both the government and society with admirable commitment, reinforcing the values of service the club stands for.

The Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocols, Alhaji Mudasiru Adegbeha, described the outgoing Press Officer as a goal-getter with unmatched humility and native intelligence.

According to him, filling the vacuum that Mr. Akinwumi leaves behind will be a difficult task considering his unique capacity and work ethic.

Also speaking, a Director from the Ministry of Information, Ms. Nike Busari, noted that the impressive turnout at the ceremony was a clear reflection of Mr. Akinwumi’s character and the positive impact he had made over the years. She described him as highly professional, painstaking in his duties, unassuming, and deeply humble.

Leaders and members of Lions Club International joined in celebrating one of their “outstanding Lions,” emphasising that Mr. Akinwumi’s retirement from the civil service does not diminish his continuing role in humanitarian and service-oriented activities within the organisation.

The Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Pastor Abiodun Akinseloyin, in his message, remarked that the Ondo State Government still needed the valuable services of Mr. Akinwumi, adding that but for compulsory retirement, his wealth of experience and discipline would remain indispensable within the system.

Also speaking, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Adekola Falohun, said the pen-down ceremony called for sober reflection on the need for dedication in public service, noting that Mr. Akinwumi had set a standard for others to follow.

In his appreciation, the celebrant, Lion Bode Akinwumi, who served as the Head of the Press Crew to the Deputy Governor, thanked everyone for honouring him and celebrating his years of service. He expressed gratitude to the state government, colleagues, friends, and family for their support, stating that he was fulfilled to have served with sincerity and commitment.

Dignitaries at the event included a Past Council Chair in Lions Club International, Mr. Olumuyiwa Jegede; management staff of the Ministry of Information led by its Administrative Secretary, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri; National President of the Iju Progressive Union, Mr. Isaac Oluwalade; Venerable Thompson Akinboro and Venerable Timothy Akinnubi (both of the Akure Diocese, Anglican Communion); Professor Sunday Bayode; and the spouse of the celebrant, Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Akinwumi, along with some of their children.

…says gesture will greatly enhance emergency response on campus

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has applauded the member of the House of Representatives for Akoko South-West/South-East Federal Constituency, Dr. Adegboyega Adefarati, for his unwavering commitment to the institution’s development.

Prof. Ige gave the commendation on Tuesday, November 18,  2025, during the official handover of a new, fully equipped ambulance donated to the university by the federal lawmaker.

Describing the gesture as both timely and impactful, the Vice Chancellor noted that the ambulance would significantly enhance the institution’s healthcare and emergency response capabilities, addressing a critical gap in the university’s infrastructure.

“On behalf of the University community, I extend our profound gratitude to Honourable Adefarati for this generous donation. 

“With this state-of-the-art vehicle, our staff and students can be assured of rapid and reliable emergency response when needed. It is also worthy of note that the donor’s father, the late Chief Adebayo Adefarati, a former Governor of Ondo State, was instrumental in bringing AAUA to Akungba. Today, we see his son making meaningful contributions to the continued growth and welfare of the institution he helped to establish,” Prof. Ige said.

The Vice Chancellor, who described the donation as a major relief to the University, called on other prominent indigenes of Akoko, both at home and in the diaspora, to emulate the gesture and support the University’s ongoing infrastructure and facility development efforts.

While formally handing over the vehicle,  Adefarati reaffirmed his family’s enduring commitment to giving back to the institution. The lawmaker expressed confidence that the ambulance would substantially strengthen the university’s capacity to provide prompt and effective medical care.

“This ambulance will greatly enhance the delivery of emergency medical services to both students and staff. It is a robust and versatile medical transport vehicle, equipped to handle a variety of critical situations,” he said.

 Adefarati explained that the ambulance is fitted with state-of-the-art features, including a climate control system, adequate ventilation, a washable bench, a comprehensive oxygen supply system, an automated stretcher, and a fully stocked medical bag. Other advanced components include an internal communication system, alarm, siren, amplifier, and both 20V DC and 220V AC electrical outlets to power essential medical equipment.

He added that AAUA remains one of the key institutions in Ondo State that upholds and projects the legacy of his late father, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, and commended the University’s Management, staff, and students for their sustained commitment to academic excellence and institutional development.

Prof. Dele David Abajingin, a distinguished scholar of Theoretical Physics at Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria, is set to deliver the institution’s 51st Inaugural Lecture.

The lecture, titled “A Low-Value Alternating Electromagnetic Field for Malaria Therapy: A New Dance Step to the Same Old Drummer,” will be held on Tuesday,  November 25, 2025, at the University Multipurpose Hall.

In a statement, the Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, confirmed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will preside. The lecture is scheduled to commence at 2:00 PM, with guests expected to be seated by 1:30 PM.

Prof. Abajingin’s academic career began with a National Certificate of Education (NCE) in Physics and Mathematics from the former Adeyemi College of Education (now Adeyemi Federal University of  Education) in Ondo, which he obtained in 1976. He earned a Bachelor of Education (Science) from the University of Benin in 1983, followed by a Master of Science in Physics from the University of Ibadan in 1988. He completed his doctoral training with a PhD in Physics from the University of Benin in 2008.

He joined Adekunle Ajasin University in 2000 as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Physics and Electronics. Through dedicated service and scholarly contributions, he rose through the ranks to become a Professor in 2019.

His service to the University has been extensive, encompassing multiple departments and leadership roles. He has served twice as Head of the Department of Physics and Electronics and has acted as Head of Department for both the Computer Science and Mathematical Science Departments. Additionally, Prof. Abajingin has held the position of Coordinator for the Departmental Undergraduate Programme and served as the Faculty of Science Representative on the Institute of Education Promotion and Board of Studies.

The distinguished academic has authored four published books and 32 journal articles, with a further four unpublished papers. He has actively participated in the academic community both locally and internationally, having presented research at numerous conferences, including events in Ghana and South Korea.

Prof. Abajingin is an active member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Association of Mathematical Physics, the Ghana Society of Science, the Society of Computational and Experimental Science and Engineering, and the Nigerian Institute of Physics.