By Basheer Luqman Olarewaju anipr
Fifty years ago, in the heart of Ilorin, a vision was born. It was a vision not merely of bricks and mortar, but of minds molded in excellence, of a citadel that would stand the test of time, producing generations of thinkers, leaders, and innovators.
That vision materialized in 1975 as the University of Ilorin. Like a river that carves its path through sheer persistence, Unilorin has flowed through decades with resilience, shaping destinies and rewriting the narrative of higher education in Nigeria. Today, at fifty, it does not just wear the crown of age but that of wisdom, accomplishment, and a relentless commitment to being “better by far.”
The golden jubilee celebrations took a remarkable turn as the ‘Image House,’ the esteemed office of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kwara State Chapter, became a convergence of intellect, excellence, and nostalgia. The air was thick with admiration as the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, ably represented by Prof. Lukman Abdulazeez, Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communication, delivered a keynote address.
With eloquence befitting the stature of Unilorin, he traced the institution’s journey—its leaps and strides, the hurdles it surmounted, and the undeniable impact it has had on the academic landscape of Nigeria.
He also addressed the concerns raised by alumni about the University’s Alumni Association, reassuring them of the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and engagement.
Taking center stage was the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, a seasoned PR practitioner and guest lecturer at the Kwara NIPR March clinic. With a masterful stroke of words, he painted the story of Unilorin’s journey—one of triumph over challenges, of an institution that has evolved into the most sought-after university in Nigeria.
He spoke of how Unilorin, despite storms that could have rocked its foundation, stood tall, unwavering in its commitment to excellence. Like the eagle that soars above the tempest, the University had turned adversities into stepping stones, and today, it stands at the pinnacle of academic brilliance.
The event took an engaging turn as distinguished personalities lent their voices to the discourse.
The CEO of Emirate Radio and Spokesperson to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Arowona, alongside the SSA New Media to the Kwara State Governor, Olayinka Fafoluyi, and the SA Media to Honourable Muktar Tolani Shagaya, Basheer Luqman Olarewaju, all spoke with fervor. As proud alumni, they commended the Vice Chancellor’s leadership while urging more proactive engagement from the Alumni Association.
Their words echoed the sentiments of many—an institution as great as Unilorin must continue to strengthen its ties with those it has molded, for as the Yoruba proverb goes, *“Ile lati n ko eso r’ode”*—charity begins at home.
The room was filled with dignitaries, from PR professionals to media executives and students of Mass Communication, all bearing witness to history in the making.
The Special Adviser and Counselor to the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Saadu Salaudeen, speaking as a Fellow and Chairman of the Mobilization Committee for the NIPR National Conference, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between Unilorin and the NIPR.
He acknowledged the invaluable support of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, reiterating the need for NIPR members to play active roles in the upcoming national conference in Akwa Ibom. His words underscored a truth as old as time—partnerships fuel progress, and synergy breeds success.
Adding an inspiring touch to the occasion, the first female Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin and a respected NIPR Council Member, Prof. Saudat Abdulbaqi, emphasized the impressive turnout.
She urged non-registered attendees to officially become part of the NIPR, reinforcing the need for professional development and institutional growth. Her presence was a testament to the university’s commitment to breaking barriers, rewriting narratives, and setting new standards.
As the event drew to a close, one thing was crystal clear—Unilorin’s story is one of prestige, perseverance, and promise. The golden jubilee is not just a celebration of years but of legacies built and futures shaped. Like a tree that has withstood seasons of drought and storm, its roots run deep, its branches spread far, and its impact is undeniable.
At fifty, Unilorin is not slowing down; it is gathering momentum for the next chapter—one that will be even *better by far.*
— Basheer Luqman Olarewaju anipr,
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Muktar Tolani Shagaya,
Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency.
