To our esteemed staff, dear students, valued alumni, parents, guardians, and the entire University of Ibadan community. As the year 2025 draws to a close, I extend my warmest and most heartfelt yuletide greetings to you all. On behalf of the Governing Council and the Management team of our great university, I congratulate every member of our community on this year's celebration of Christmas and the approaching New Year.

This season is a time of joy, love, and profound gratitude. It offers us a unique opportunity to reflect on our journey over the past year, to appreciate the bonds we have formed, and to celebrate the collective milestones we have achieved.

A Tribute to Our Pillars of Excellence

Our university's continued standing as a beacon of hope and a citadel of excellence is a direct result of your individual and collective dedication. For this, I am deeply grateful.

To our dedicated staff: Your unwavering commitment and passion for education have been the driving force behind our success. Your tireless efforts in nurturing and guiding our students, often in the face of challenges, do not go unnoticed. You have not only imparted knowledge but have also instilled the values of resilience and integrity that define a true University of Ibadan graduate. Thank you for your service.

To our brilliant students: You are, without a doubt, the heart and soul of this university. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and relentless determination to excel continue to be a tremendous source of pride for us all. Throughout the year, you have shown remarkable understanding and perseverance. Your academic achievements and continued excellence in various competitions are a shining testament to your hard work and the quality of education we strive to provide. Well done.

A Moment of Solemn Remembrance

This season of celebration is also a time for sober reflection. Our hearts remain with the families, friends, and colleagues of members of our university community who have passed on. The absence of these mentors, mentees, and champions is felt more deeply during these times. We honour their memory and contributions to our community. May they find eternal rest, and may the good Lord comfort all who mourn them in ways beyond our human comprehension.

Looking Forward with Hope

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, which symbolizes new beginnings and boundless hope, let us enter the coming year with renewed vigor and a shared commitment to upholding the legacy of our premier university. Let the peace, joy, and generosity of this season fill your homes and hearts.

I wish you all a Christmas filled with warmth, happiness, and the love of family and friends. May the New Year bring you good health, prosperity, and continued success.

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2026! Warm regards,

Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp

Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan

22 December 2025