The ceremony, held at the university's main campus in Osogbo on Monday, brought together government officials, university management, traditional leaders and other dignitaries to celebrate new milestones in the institution's development.
Among the projects commissioned by the governor were a modern sports complex, a three-in-one laboratory complex, a 500-seat lecture theatre and a 750-capacity lecture theatre, all aimed at enhancing teaching, learning and research.
Adeleke Praises Alakija's Legacy
During the investiture ceremony, Governor Adeleke paid glowing tribute to the immediate past Chancellor, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, describing her tenure as one marked by exceptional service, generosity and unwavering commitment to the university's growth.
He noted that one of the enduring legacies of her administration was the donation of the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital, fully funded by the Alakija family.
The governor said:
"Though her tenure has come to a successful conclusion, her remarkable legacy shall remain an integral part of the history of this university."
Highlighting the significance of leadership succession, Adeleke added:
"Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, leadership is a relay, not a race. Every generation is called upon to build on the achievements of those who came before it.
"Today, the baton has been passed to another accomplished and highly respected Nigerian.
"After careful consideration, one name stood out: Mrs Victoria Adunola Samson. She is an accomplished business executive, an exceptional administrator, a respected industrialist and an inspiring leader whose contributions to corporate Nigeria have earned widespread admiration."
The governor assured the new Chancellor of his administration's continued support, reiterating that education remains a cornerstone of sustainable development in Osun State.
Vice Chancellor Commends Appointment
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Prof. Clement Adebooye, applauded Governor Adeleke for appointing Samson, describing her as eminently qualified for the role.
According to him, the office of Chancellor goes beyond ceremonial responsibilities, serving as a symbol of the university's prestige and a bridge between the institution and the wider society.
He said:
"This position is vital because the chancellor embodies the university's prestige, champions the university's mission, and leverages their high profile to secure philanthropic funding and strategic partnerships for the university.
"Distinguished members of this gathering, you will agree with me that Mama Victoria Adunola Samson perfectly fits into all these fundamental requirements of a chancellor through her extraordinary, pioneering track record as the founder and Managing Director of BOVAS Oil and Gas."
UNIOSUN Records Steady Growth
Adebooye also highlighted the remarkable transformation the university has witnessed since it was established in 2007.
According to him, student enrolment has increased from just 649 students at inception to about 42,000, while academic programmes have expanded from 19 to 108, reflecting the institution's steady growth and rising academic profile.
Speaking on the newly commissioned projects, the Vice Chancellor said they were funded through the support of the Osun State Government alongside the university's internally generated revenue.
He stated:
"These are completely funded by the Osun State Government through our internally generated revenue to make teaching and learning much better for our students and staff.
"I am also happy to confirm that there are other projects across other campuses, including the ongoing intra-campus road networks here on the main campus and in our Ikire campus."
Samson Unveils Vision for UNIOSUN
In her acceptance speech, the new Chancellor expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in her and acknowledged the contributions of her predecessors in laying a solid foundation for the university.
She identified improved infrastructure and staff welfare as priorities of her tenure, stressing that investing in both personnel and facilities would ultimately benefit students.
Samson said:
"This is because when the faculty, whether academic or administrative, is well taken care of, they will also do the best for the student population as a whole.
"And when the infrastructure for students is available, with great academic scholars, we will build students who will be world-class in all aspects."
She also pledged to strengthen collaboration between the university and industry, describing partnerships as essential for innovation, research and national development.
According to her:
"As a chancellor, I would like to ensure that the bridge between the town and gown is further strengthened through increased collaboration and cooperation between the university, as knowledge producers and trainers, and the industry."
Samson further set an ambitious target for the institution's global visibility.
She said:
"We must also collaborate to effectively improve the Webometrics ranking of this university. We must ensure all hands are on deck to bring UNIOSUN into the top 10 in Nigeria within the next five years. I strongly believe this is achievable, with God's blessing."
Dignitaries Grace Ceremony
The investiture ceremony was attended by several prominent personalities, including former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi; Chairman of the University's Governing Council, Prof. Wale Oladipo; alongside members of the university community and other invited guests.
Mrs. Victoria Samson succeeds Apostle Folorunso Alakija, who served as Chancellor from 2016 to 2026. The university's pioneer Chancellor was the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, who held the position following the institution's establishment in 2007.