The University of Ilorin on Tuesday unveiled an ambitious vision to become one of the top 10 universities in Africa and among the best 500 globally, as the institution marked its 50th anniversary with the commissioning of a Space Research Centre, signalling a bold entry into the future of scientific innovation.
Speaking at a special press briefing to kick-start activities for the golden jubilee, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab O. Egbewole, SAN, said the University’s new development agenda, tagged Vision 1:10:500, is designed to consolidate UNILORIN’s decade-long status as Nigeria’s leading university while accelerating its rise in global ranking.
“With our strong foundation and our era of innovative reinvention, we are determined to become one of Africa’s top 10 universities and one of the world’s top 500. This is not a slogan, but a commitment backed by clear plans and measurable actions,” the Vice-Chancellor declared.
The launch of the Space Research Centre, billed for commissioning immediately after the briefing, is among the flagship projects expected to position the University as a continental force in research, innovation, and technology-driven education.
Prof. Egbewole noted that UNILORIN has evolved from a modest second-generation university, once dismissed by its early students as a “glorified secondary school”, into a pacesetting institution recognised for stability, excellence, innovation and global leadership.
He stated that the University has produced thousands of distinguished graduates across continents and has provided leadership in major global and regional platforms such as the International Association of Universities (IAU), Association of African Universities (AAU), and the U6+ Consortium.
Its innovative milestones, including the introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) in Nigeria’s university examination system, have shaped the national academic landscape.
In a significant national call, the Vice-Chancellor raised concerns about rising insecurity in Nigeria and recent international reactions to it, particularly a controversial statement by United States President Donald Trump alleging “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
He warned that while foreign support in combating terrorism is welcome, Nigeria’s sovereignty must not be compromised, urging caution to avoid disastrous consequences similar to the historical “Cobra Effect.”
“This is the time for Nigerians to unite across religion, ethnicity, and politics. Anything short of this will deepen our fragility as a nation,” he said.
Events marking the anniversary, according to the VC, include: The commissioning of the Space Research Centre Courtesy visits to the Kwara State Governor and key stakeholders, An interactive session with Student Union leaders, Alumni Day and Colloquium with the unveiling of the 3D Model of the Anniversary Project, A N50 billion Endowment Fund Launch, An anniversary lecture by renowned Kenyan scholar, Prof. P. L. O. Lumumba, titled “Unilorin at 50: Innovating for a Sustainable Nigerian Future”
The festivities will climax with the commissioning of the JAMB Hostel, the Innovation Hub, special recognitions, and a grand anniversary dinner.
Looking ahead to UNILORIN’s centenary, the VC listed the University’s goals for the next five decades, including: Artificial Intelligence-driven teaching and research, Fully automated university processes, A secure, climate-resilient campus, Expansion into new academic disciplines, Global competitiveness built on innovation, integrity and excellence
“We are gold, and gold never rusts,” Prof. Egbewole said. “Our next 50 years will define our place in the world.”
