On Saturday, 10 August, 2024, the academic and alumni community gathered at the International Conference Centre, Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, to celebrate the appointment of Professor Siyan Oyeweso as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the university.
The event, organised by the 1978 alumni set of the University of Ife (now OAU), was a grand affair that brought together notable figures from various walks of life, including academia, politics, and business.
The ceremony began with an opening speech by Hon. Barrister Femi Kehinde, Chairman of the Planning Committee, who reminisced about the shared experiences of the alumni during their time at Ife.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Simeon Banire, delivered a speech in which he described Oyeweso’s appointment as a tremendous blessing for the university. He lauded his deep connection to the institution as an alumnus and praised his proven leadership skills and understanding of managing large academic establishments.
Prof. Akin Alao, one of Oyeweso’s close friends and classmate also delivered a heartfelt speech that traced the Ede-born academic’s trajectory of life and career. He fondly recalled their time together at Ife, emphasizing his colleague’s infectious enthusiasm and active participation in various student bodies, including the Student Representative Council, Student Judicial Council and the Muslim Students Society.
Among the various goodwill messages presented, Prof. Odunayo Clement Adebooye, Vice Chancellor of Osun State University, extolled OAU as a beacon of radical thinking, progressive academics, and fearless scholarship.
In his response, Prof. Oyeweso expressed deep gratitude to the organisers of the luncheon for the honor bestowed upon him.
He described his appointment as an act of divine providence and a call to service, and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the university’s mission.
Members of the 1978 set who were present included Prof. Akin Alao, Prof. Kayode Alao, Barr. Femi Kehinde, Mr. Bola Bolawole, among others.
Notable attendees included Prof. Taiwo Olaiya and Prof. Sola Akinrinade.
