Ooni of Ife has graciously pledged his unwavering support for the newly established Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has expressed his commitment to supporting the newly established Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University in its efforts to elevate the institution further.

Oba Ogunwusi made this declaration during a courtesy visit from the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Professor Siyan Oyeweso, along with other council members and the university's management team at his palace.

According to a statement from the University’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, the esteemed monarch praised Professor Oyeweso for his admirable dedication to the history of the Yoruba people and urged him to leverage his extensive experience to advance Obafemi Awolowo University, ensuring that the aspirations of its founders are fulfilled.

The Chairman of Co”ncil was encouraged by Oba Ogunwusi to regard his palace as a second home. In his prayer, he asked God to bestow upon Professor Oyeweso the wisdom and knowledge necessary for effectively overseeing the university’s operations.

Oba Ogunwusi further urged the Pro-Chancellor to embrace the role of a father figure to all staff and students, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their concerns in pursuit of sustainable solutions.

Earlier, Professor Oyeweso paid tribute to the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, acknowledging his pivotal role in providing the land for the university’s establishment. He emphasized that without the late monarch’s vision, the university in Ile-Ife might not have come into existence.

Acknowledging the contributions of the former Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, for fostering a strong relationship between the academic community and the local populace, Professor Oyeweso remarked that his significant impact on the advancement of Obafemi Awolowo University will be remembered in history.

In expressing gratitude to the current Ooni of Ife, whom he affectionately referred to as his father, the Chairman of the Council assured the royal figure that the council would consistently seek his guidance whenever necessary.

Professor Oyeweso also extended his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for appointing distinguished individuals to the Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University, emphasizing that their exceptional integrity and professional expertise will greatly benefit the institution.