From Kehinde Akinpelu Ilorin
The University of Ilorin has announced plans to immortalise its late former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali, OON, as tributes continue to pour in from academic leaders, alumni and stakeholders who described him as a humble administrator and visionary reformer.
The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN) of the University of Ilorin, disclosed the decision on Monday during a Special Senate Session held in honour of the 9th Vice-Chancellor, who passed away on June 6, 2026.
Egbewole said the university had resolved to erect a strategic monument on campus in recognition of Ambali’s contributions, noting that his tenure left “lasting footprints across all aspects of institutional development.”
“As a university, we are sad, but we are celebrating a life of fulfilment and achievements. What we see are his courage, candour and record of service,” he said.
He recalled that Ambali, who led the institution between 2012 and 2017, maintained uninterrupted academic calendars, expanded academic programmes, strengthened staff welfare, and drove major infrastructural and technological upgrades.
The Vice-Chancellor added that Ambali’s administration improved digital library systems, enhanced power and water supply, expanded health sciences, promoted research commercialisation and deepened international partnerships.
Egbewole further described the late scholar as “an introverted dynamo,” adding: “He was accommodating, calm, and deeply resourceful in leadership.”
Former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Nike Yetunde Ijaya, said Ambali’s leadership style was marked by consultation, humility and trust in his team.
“He respected opinions from staff and students. He never stampeded decisions. Working with him made one feel comfortable taking responsibility,” she said.
Ijaya noted that under Ambali, UNILORIN strengthened academic standards, secured NUC accreditations, introduced new programmes such as Cyber Security and Optometry, and improved student discipline and welfare.
Also speaking, Professor Raheem Adebayo Lawal described the late Vice-Chancellor as a calm and principled leader who combined firmness with compassion.
“He was humble in life and gentle in death,” Lawal said, adding that Ambali remained committed to service until his final moments, even engaging in worship, family visits and acts of charity the day before his passing.
Lawal recalled incidents during Ambali’s tenure, including handling false security alarms with composure and ensuring fairness in administrative decisions.
Former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, also described Ambali as “a respected scholar and humane administrator whose legacy continues to shape the institution.”
Similarly, former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Suleiman Age, said Ambali’s tenure was defined by academic expansion, infrastructural growth and a strong commitment to research and innovation.
“He consolidated UNILORIN’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost universities,” Age said.
In a broader tribute, leaders of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) said Ambali’s death was a major loss to the Ilorin community and the nation.
The Union described him as “a patriot, scholar and statesman,” calling on the university to sustain his legacy and care for his family.
“We appeal that his widow and children should be properly supported. Naming a structure after him would immortalise his contributions and inspire future generations,” the statement read.
Across the Senate session, speakers consistently highlighted Ambali’s humility, fairness, discipline, mentorship and commitment to institutional growth, noting that his leadership model remained a reference point in Nigeria’s university system.
Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali served as the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin from 2012 to 2017 and is widely regarded as one of the institution’s most impactful administrators.
