Professor Babatunde Omojola Inaugurated as BOUESTI’s New Vice-Chancellor, Pledges Transformational Leadership

Professor Babatunde Andrew Omojola has officially assumed office as the second substantive Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), promising to lead the institution through a new era of transformation and growth.

The formal inauguration took place on Tuesday at the university’s Ikere-Ekiti campus in Ekiti State, signifying a pivotal leadership transition following a rigorous selection process that shortlisted 19 candidates for the role. The event was presided over by Professor Dipo Aina, Chairman of the University’s Governing Council.

In his inaugural address, Professor Omojola acknowledged the weight of his appointment as a profound responsibility. He committed to building upon the university’s existing achievements while spearheading initiatives aimed at institutional advancement and optimization. Expressing gratitude to the Ekiti State Government and the Governing Council for their confidence, he highlighted BOUESTI’s remarkable rise to 29th position among Nigerian universities within five years, achieved despite the challenge of operating without a take-off grant—an accomplishment that underscores the university’s resilience and strong leadership.

Outlining his administration’s core priorities, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized driving research-led innovation, enhancing internally generated revenue, fostering wealth creation, ensuring staff and student welfare, and maintaining stable labour-management relations. He underscored the importance of quality and motivation among both workforce and students as critical to the university’s upward trajectory.

Professor Omojola also stressed the need for inclusive governance through open dialogue and shared responsibility. He called on management, staff, students, alumni, and the host communities to unite behind a common purpose as BOUESTI embarks on this new chapter.

Delivering prayers and encouragement, University Pro-Chancellor Professor Dipo Aina implored the new Vice-Chancellor to lead with wisdom, strength, and clear purpose. He expressed confidence that Professor Omojola would further consolidate BOUESTI’s status as a premier institution for education, science, and technology in Ekiti State and beyond.

Professor Aina emphasized that Omojola’s appointment marks a fresh phase for the young university, with expectations for measurable improvements in academic excellence, research productivity, staff motivation, infrastructure development, and student welfare. He urged leadership grounded in integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and strong engagement with unions, alumni, and community stakeholders.

The Governing Council Chairman also paid tribute to BOUESTI’s pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, recognising his vital role in establishing a firm academic and administrative foundation despite resource constraints—an essential platform for the university’s early growth and stability.

The inauguration attracted prominent university officials, students and alumni, Vice-Chancellors from Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State University, traditional rulers, community leaders, mentors, and family members, all joining to celebrate this significant milestone for BOUESTI.