The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) is set to mark a historic milestone as it celebrates its 40th Convocation Ceremony with a lineup of major events, distinguished guests, and groundbreaking project inaugurations. The highlight of this year’s convocation is the expected visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who will officially unveil several newly completed infrastructural projects within the university campus.
According to official statements from the university management, the convocation week will span from October 17 to October 26, 2025, featuring a series of academic, cultural, and ceremonial activities aimed at honoring graduates, recognizing excellence, and celebrating four decades of academic distinction.
President Tinubu’s Visit and Project Commissioning
President Tinubu’s anticipated visit to the University of Ilorin marks a major event in the institution’s history. The president is expected to commission multiple completed projects that are designed to enhance learning, research, and student welfare across the campus.
The commissioning ceremony is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., during the convocation for five- and six-year programmes as well as postgraduate graduands. The event will also serve as a platform for the president to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to the advancement of tertiary education in Nigeria.
According to the university authorities, adequate security and logistics arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth execution of the ceremony, given the expected presence of high-profile guests, alumni, and dignitaries from across the country.
Babatunde Fashola to Deliver Convocation Lecture
As part of the convocation week, former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), will deliver the Convocation Lecture on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. inside the University Auditorium.
The lecture, titled “The Gen-Z Playbook: Navigating Work and the Real World,” will focus on equipping the younger generation with strategies to succeed in a fast-changing global economy. It is expected to be one of the major intellectual highlights of the week, drawing attention from scholars, policymakers, students, and the media.
Fashola’s lecture will explore themes such as innovation, resilience, adaptability, and the importance of values in professional and personal growth. His inclusion in the lineup reflects UNILORIN’s tradition of inviting thought leaders who inspire and challenge students to think beyond the classroom.
Detailed Schedule of Events for UNILORIN’s 40th Convocation
The 40th convocation week promises a mix of spiritual reflection, cultural display, academic recognition, and social celebrations. Below is a structured outline of the scheduled events:
| Date | Event | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, October 17, 2025 | Special Juma’at Service | University Central Mosque | 1:00 p.m. |
| Sunday, October 19, 2025 | Interdenominational Church Service | Chapel of the Light | 10:00 a.m. |
| Monday, October 20, 2025 | World Press Conference by the Vice-Chancellor | University Auditorium | 10:00 a.m. |
| Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | Convocation Play: Joromi | Performing Arts Theatre | 6:00 p.m. |
| Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | Convocation Lecture by Babatunde Fashola (SAN) | University Auditorium | 9:00 a.m. |
| Thursday, October 23, 2025 | Commissioning of Projects by President Tinubu; Convocation for 5- & 6-Year Programmes and Postgraduates | University Main Auditorium | 1:30 p.m. |
| Friday, October 24 – Sunday, October 26, 2025 | Investiture of Emeritus Professors, Staff Merit Awards, Alumni Luncheon, and Thanksgiving Service | Various Venues | Time Varies |
A Celebration of Four Decades of Academic Excellence
The 40th convocation marks a remarkable journey for the University of Ilorin — an institution renowned for its stability, discipline, and consistent academic calendar. Over the past four decades, UNILORIN has built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected universities, producing graduates who excel locally and globally.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and character development. He emphasized that the convocation represents both a celebration of achievements and a renewal of the institution’s mission to contribute meaningfully to national development.
In his remarks, the Registrar, Mansur Alfanla, assured that all arrangements have been finalized to ensure the success of the week-long activities. He added that the institution is prepared to welcome guests, parents, and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, maintaining UNILORIN’s tradition of orderliness and efficiency.
Renewed Vision for Educational Growth
With the expected presence of President Tinubu, the 40th convocation is not only a celebration but also a statement of national focus on education and infrastructural development. The president’s participation in the project commissioning underscores the federal government’s interest in improving the learning environment across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Observers believe this gesture signals a renewed partnership between the government and universities, fostering an atmosphere that promotes research, creativity, and innovation among students and staff.
Anticipation Builds Across Campus
Students, staff, and alumni of the University of Ilorin have expressed excitement ahead of the convocation week. The university community has been abuzz with preparations, decorations, and rehearsals for various events. From the performing arts department to the faculties of science, engineering, and law, enthusiasm is high as everyone looks forward to an unforgettable week of celebration.
The university’s alumni body has also announced plans to honor distinguished members who have made significant contributions to national development.
Conclusion
The University of Ilorin’s 40th Convocation Ceremony stands as a testament to its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, integrity, and innovation. With President Bola Tinubu expected to commission landmark projects and Babatunde Fashola delivering a thought-provoking lecture, this year’s convocation promises to be one of the most memorable in UNILORIN’s rich history.
As the institution celebrates forty years of transformative education, it continues to set the pace in Nigeria’s higher education sector, inspiring future generations to uphold its motto: Probitas Doctrina — Learning and Character.
