"University of Ibadan Needs 70 Billion Naira To Improve Academics"-VC

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI) Prof Abel Olayinka has said the institution plans to raise N70 billion to improve the premier university’s academic excellence.
The fund raising is coming on the heels of the university’s 70th anniversary this year.
Towards the celebration, UI management yesterday inaugurated a high-level committee to plan, coordinate and execute activities to mark the milestone.
UI, established in 1948, will be 70 next November.
Inaugurating the committee, Prof Olayinka noted that “though 70 years in the life of the university was relatively young when compared with some other universities across the world, some which are as old as 700 years, UI must joyfully mark this milestone, considering its contributions to national development”.
According to Olayinka, this is the university which has produced high-calibre human resources for Nigeria and the world.
He said: “Indeed, we can confidently say our products are our pride as people believe that once this product is from Ibadan, it must be the best.”
Olayinka said UI would be shopping for N70 billion for its capital projects.
The vice chancellor expressed optimism that the dream is achievable, if all UI products are properly harnessed.
He said: “Given its prestigious position in higher education in Nigeria, some people have the belief that every educated Nigerian is either a direct or indirect product of UI. This is because if you did not attend UI, you must have been taught somewhere by someone who attended UI, or who was taught by someone who trained in UI. Therefore, UI belongs to all Nigerians.
“In the last 70 years of our academic excellence, our achievements are numerous and impactful as it can be seen in the quality of our products in every sphere of life.
“Therefore, we feel it will not be a bad idea if we come together on this occasion to celebrate, reflect on the journey so far and plan for the future. We intend to bring back our old alumni for flashback and reminiscence, celebrate our icons and inspire the current students towards nothing but the best.”
Olayinka urged the alumni to get ready for the epoch celebration, saying every alumnus should think about what to give back to the university.
Officials at the meeting include Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof Ambrose Emilorun Aiyelari; Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof Adeyinka Aderinto; Registrar Mr. Olumiji Olukoya; University Librarian Dr. Mrs. Helen Komolafe Opadeji and Provost, College of Medicine, Prof Oluwabunmi Olapade Olaopa.