By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has once again reinforced its rising profile on the global academic stage, emerging as the best state university in Nigeria and ranking 12th overall among more than 300 universities in the country in the Times Higher Education 2026 rankings.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Akin Oyebode, disclosed this milestone during the institution’s 30th convocation ceremony, where a total of 10,959 students graduated across various disciplines.
Describing the feat as a reflection of EKSU’s academic strength and institutional stability, Oyebode attributed the success to purposeful leadership and strategic governance.
He noted that under the stewardship of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, the university has sustained transformative leadership by fostering industrial harmony with staff unions, ensuring prompt salary payments, and strengthening governance structures.
He said the convocation ceremony provided a platform for the institution to reflect on its journey over the past year, assess its achievements, confront existing challenges, and chart a forward-looking path toward greater excellence.
Reaffirming the Governing Council’s commitment, Oyebode assured that the welfare of staff and students would remain a top priority, stressing that the Council would continue to support initiatives that align with the university’s vision and mission.
In his remarks, the Chancellor, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, pledged sustained support for students through his foundation. In a significant show of encouragement, he awarded ₦500,000 each to 82 first-class graduates and promised employment opportunities for some of the graduates within his business establishments.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor expressed deep appreciation to the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment. He credited the governor’s unwavering support as a driving force behind the university’s steady progress and consolidation of past achievements.
Ayodele also highlighted the university’s growing reputation in innovative learning, particularly in financial trading, describing it as a pioneering initiative powered by collaboration with the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation, CFA Society Nigeria, and FMDQ Group.
According to him, the programme equips students with practical, real-world experience, positioning EKSU as a leader in experiential education.
On international collaborations, the Vice Chancellor revealed that the university is deepening its partnership with the University of the West of England, following the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding.
He acknowledged initial challenges but expressed optimism, calling on EKSU alumni in the UK and Ireland to support the initiative and ensure its long-term success.
The 30th convocation ceremony not only celebrated academic accomplishments but also underscored EKSU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and global relevance.