In a remarkable academic feat, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, has announced that 185 students will graduate with First-Class Honours at its upcoming 17th Convocation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the university’s 20-year journey of academic excellence and innovation.
The convocation ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10, 2025, will see a total of 1,341 undergraduates and 338 postgraduate students receive their degrees. The event is not only a celebration of outstanding academic performance but also a testament to Redeemer’s University’s continuous rise as one of Nigeria’s most reputable private institutions of higher learning.
A Breakdown of the Graduating Class
According to the university management, the breakdown of the graduating students is as follows:
| Degree Classification | Number of Students |
|---|---|
| First Class Honours | 185 |
| Second Class Upper | 662 |
| Second Class Lower | 410 |
| Third Class | 79 |
| Pass | 5 |
At the postgraduate level, a total of 338 students will receive various degrees across several faculties and schools. The breakdown is as follows:
| Postgraduate Award Type | Number of Graduands |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) | 109 |
| Master of Arts (M.A) | 65 |
| Master of Science (M.Sc) | 120 |
| Master of Business Admin (MBA) | 25 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) | 19 |
Valedictorian Emerges with a Perfect 5.0 CGPA
Leading the pack of exceptional graduates is Joel Durigbo, a student of Mechanical Engineering, who made history as the best graduating student with a perfect Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 5.0. His achievement not only stands as a personal triumph but also reinforces the university’s commitment to fostering academic brilliance and discipline.
Durigbo’s record-breaking performance will be remembered as one of the most outstanding academic achievements in Redeemer’s University history.
Celebrating 20 Years of Impact and Transformation
This year’s convocation is particularly special as it coincides with Redeemer’s University’s 20th anniversary. Established in 2005 by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the institution has consistently grown into a hub of innovation, research, and moral excellence.
Over two decades, the university has recorded numerous national and international achievements. Notably, it was recently selected by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) as one of the eight private universities approved to train postgraduate candidates under the TETFund sponsorship scheme. This recognition underscores the institution’s growing credibility within Nigeria’s higher education ecosystem.
Redeemer’s University Shines in Global Rankings
Adding to its celebration, Redeemer’s University achieved a remarkable feat in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, where it emerged second overall in Nigeria and led in several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) categories, including quality education, innovation, and industry partnership.
This accomplishment highlights the university’s global competitiveness and its commitment to the United Nations’ SDG framework, setting it apart as one of the fastest-rising private universities on the continent.
Honours and Special Recognitions
In recognition of outstanding contributions to society, the university will confer honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished Nigerians who have demonstrated excellence in their fields. Among those to be honoured are:
- Mrs. Omolewa Ahmed, renowned humanitarian and former First Lady of Kwara State.
- Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries and pioneer of Christian drama in Nigeria.
- Mr. Kola Adeshina, an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader.
These honourees embody the core values of service, leadership, and faith-driven excellence that Redeemer’s University seeks to instill in its students.
A Legacy of Excellence and Faith
Since its inception, Redeemer’s University has consistently emphasized academic excellence built on moral and spiritual foundations. The institution’s motto, “Running with a Vision,” continues to inspire generations of students to pursue knowledge with integrity, innovation, and purpose.
Over the years, Redeemer’s University has produced graduates who now occupy leading roles in industry, academia, entrepreneurship, and public service—further proving that faith-based education can indeed produce world-class scholars and professionals.
Convocation Ceremony Dates and Activities
The 17th Convocation Ceremony will hold at the university’s main campus in Ede, Osun State, and will include a lineup of events such as:
- Convocation Lecture – focusing on innovation, youth empowerment, and the future of higher education in Nigeria.
- Award of Degrees to Undergraduates – Wednesday, October 9, 2025.
- Award of Postgraduate Degrees and Honorary Doctorates – Thursday, October 10, 2025.
- 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service – to celebrate two decades of faith, growth, and excellence.
A Message of Hope and Progress
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, the university management reiterated its unwavering dedication to academic quality, research advancement, and moral uprightness. They commended the students for their perseverance, especially amid the challenging economic realities in the country, and encouraged them to remain ambassadors of excellence wherever they go.
Redeemer’s University continues to position itself as a center of academic distinction, technological advancement, and spiritual transformation — a place where faith meets learning and innovation drives purpose.
Conclusion
As Redeemer’s University celebrates its 17th Convocation and 20th Anniversary, the achievements of its graduates — especially the 185 First-Class scholars — reflect not only the dedication of its students and staff but also the university’s deep-rooted vision to build a generation of leaders who will transform Nigeria and the world.
This year’s convocation stands as a proud moment of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to academic excellence. The world is watching as Redeemer’s University continues to raise the bar in quality education and moral leadership.
