The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Registrar, Mr. Dapo Oke, confirming that Prof. Oladipo will serve as the 6th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. His tenure is scheduled to begin on May 5, 2026.
The appointment followed a council meeting presided over by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Rahamon Bello, who described the selection process as merit-driven and aligned with the university’s founding principles.
Academic career rooted in the institution
Prof. Oladipo, a Professor of Social Psychology and one of the foundation academic staff of the institution, has been part of its evolution since 1999 when it operated as Tai Solarin College of Education. He later became a key member of the academic team during its transition to Tai Solarin University of Education in 2005.
He attained the rank of professor in October 2014 and has since built a profile that spans teaching, research, and academic administration within the university system.
Over the years, he has served in several strategic roles, including Chairman of the University Result Vetting Board, pioneer Director of the Directorate of Research and External Relations, pioneer Dean of the College of Specialised and Professional Education, and Deputy Director of Academic Planning, Quality Assurance and Research. He also served as Sub-Dean of the College of Applied Education and Vocational Technology.
Research background and international exposure
Beyond administrative responsibilities, Prof. Oladipo has maintained an active research profile. He has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed journal articles, 10 edited books, several book chapters, and over 15 faith-based publications.
His academic work focuses on areas such as spirituality and health, gender-based violence, child abuse, help-seeking behaviour, and psychological assessment tools. One of his recent major projects includes a TETFund-sponsored study on psycho-educational counselling interventions for survivors of child sexual abuse in Nigeria.
He has also participated in international academic engagements, including a post-doctoral fellowship at North-West University in Mafikeng, South Africa, between 2013 and 2015, as well as a sabbatical appointment at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko.
Professional affiliations and personal background
Prof. Oladipo is affiliated with several professional bodies, including the American Psychological Association, the Psychological Association of Nigeria, and other national and continental academic associations in psychology and counselling.
Described as a disciplined academic and administrator, he is also a pastor and is known for his structured approach to work and institutional governance.
Outside academia, he is said to enjoy writing, swimming, singing, and building interpersonal relationships. He is married to Mrs. Christianah Oladipo, and the marriage is blessed with children.
With his appointment, expectations are high that his deep institutional experience and research-driven background will shape the next phase of leadership at the federal university.