UI VC'S TRIBUTE ON THE LATE OLUBADAN OF IBADANLAND

Olubadan Odulana, one of UI’s greatest icons - UI VC

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka has described the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana, Odugade 1, as one of the University of Ibadan’s quintessential icons.

The late Olubadan was one of the natives who was instrumental to the release of the land on which the University of Ibadan was built to the colonial government.

The VC said the premier institution is eternally grateful to Oba Odulana for his wonderful contributions to the sustainable growth of University in a statement by the University's Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo

“Right from the beginning of the institution, he showed tremendous interest in the activities of the institution and will remain one of the towering figures in the history of the University of Ibadan", the VC stated.

Describing him as one of the pillars of the modern Ibadan and Nigeria, he noted that “even when he was frail in health, he continued to encourage the enthronement of good governance in Nigeria through intellectual discourses and contributions."

The UI VC recalled that it was in recognition of Kabiyesi's invaluable contributions to all strata of education in Nigeria that the University honoured him with an honorary degree (LL.D) in 2010.

The VC further said "Oba Odulana helped to build a generation of hardworking, decent and transparent Nigerians through his services in many capacities as a teacher, public administrator, soldier, politician, etc."

“We are encouraged by the fact that he was an uncommon gift to the education family and humanity. His immense legacy will surely continue to be a guiding light to future generation", Prof. Olayinka said.

The VC, on behalf of council, senate, congregation, management, staff and students of the University of Ibadan, commiserated with the Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; National President, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Wole Akinwande and the good people of Ibadanland on the death of the great monarch.