The University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria’s premier and oldest university, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to academic excellence as it graduated a total of 5,900 students across various faculties during its 2025 Convocation Ceremony. Out of this number, an impressive 448 students bagged First Class honours, reflecting the institution’s growing standard of academic discipline and scholarly achievement.
The event, which commenced at the institution’s International Conference Centre in Ibadan, drew dignitaries, scholars, parents, and guests from across the country who gathered to celebrate the hard work and resilience of the graduating class of 2024/2025.
Vice Chancellor Commends Students’ Hard Work and Determination
In his convocation address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, commended the graduates for their exceptional performance despite the socio-economic challenges confronting Nigeria’s education system. He described their success as a product of “discipline, focus, and the spirit of excellence that defines the University of Ibadan.”
According to him, the university’s continuous emphasis on quality teaching, research, and innovation has consistently placed it among Africa’s top-ranking institutions. He added that the university’s graduates have been globally recognized for their competence, creativity, and character.
“Our students have proven that with the right environment and dedication, academic excellence is achievable. Today, we celebrate not just their achievements, but also their resilience and the values that UI has instilled in them,” the Vice Chancellor said.
Breakdown of Graduates by Faculty
The convocation featured students from several faculties, including Arts, Science, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Public Health, Dentistry, and Pharmacy.
A detailed breakdown of the graduating class revealed that:
| Category | Number of Graduates |
|---|---|
| First Class Honours | 448 |
| Second Class (Upper Division) | 1,785 |
| Second Class (Lower Division) | 2,400 |
| Third Class & Pass | 900 |
| Postgraduate Degrees (Masters, PhD) | 367 |
| Total Graduates | 5,900 |
(Note: Figures are rounded to reflect the university’s official summary.)
The Vice Chancellor explained that the university’s Postgraduate College — the largest in Africa — continues to produce highly skilled professionals and researchers who contribute to national and global development.
Institutional Achievements and Innovation Drive
Professor Adebowale also highlighted UI’s recent milestones in research and innovation. He noted that the university had recorded groundbreaking achievements across different fields, from medicine and technology to humanities and social sciences.
One of the most remarkable developments mentioned during the convocation was the establishment of a new Faculty of Computing, designed to strengthen Nigeria’s presence in the global digital economy. The faculty is expected to serve as a hub for technological innovation, data science research, and artificial intelligence development.
He further disclosed that UI has continued to collaborate with international universities and research bodies to advance scientific discoveries and provide solutions to global challenges. In his words, “Our partnership with top universities across Europe, Asia, and North America is a testament to our vision of maintaining global relevance.”
UI’s Commitment to Quality and Character Education
Beyond academics, Professor Adebowale reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to raising graduates who not only excel intellectually but also uphold the values of integrity, humility, and patriotism.
He stated that the University of Ibadan’s success lies not only in its graduates’ grades but also in their ability to apply knowledge responsibly for the advancement of society. He reminded the new graduates that they are now ambassadors of the university and must represent its core values in all spheres of life.
“Your First Class degree or postgraduate certificate is a key to many doors, but it is your character that will keep those doors open,” he advised.
Parents, Staff, and Alumni Laud the Achievement
The convocation also witnessed emotional moments as proud parents and guardians cheered their wards. Members of the university’s staff and alumni association commended the leadership of Professor Adebowale for maintaining UI’s reputation as the cradle of intellectual excellence.
Several alumni expressed pride in the institution’s enduring legacy, recalling how UI continues to produce global leaders in academics, politics, science, and business. They encouraged the new graduates to carry the torch of excellence wherever they go.
Societal Impact and the Road Ahead
The graduation of 5,900 students, including 448 First Class scholars, underscores UI’s strategic role in producing highly trained professionals who can contribute to solving Nigeria’s economic and developmental challenges.
Observers say this year’s record highlights the university’s ability to sustain quality education despite financial and infrastructural difficulties affecting the nation’s tertiary sector.
Educational experts also believe that the achievement sends a message of hope, demonstrating that Nigerian institutions can still compete globally if adequately funded and managed.
Vice Chancellor’s Call for Support
In his concluding remarks, Professor Adebowale appealed to the federal and state governments, as well as the private sector, to invest more in education and research funding. He stressed that universities cannot operate optimally without adequate financial support and modern infrastructure.
He called on UI alumni and philanthropists to contribute to the university’s development initiatives, particularly in areas of digital learning, laboratories, and postgraduate research grants.
