ACU mourns Ayo Banjo
The Chairman of the Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) Governing Council Dr Olutoyin Okeowo and the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Timothy Abiodun Adebayo, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Governing Council, the entire management team and staff of the University, received the death of the Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo with sadness.
The late Ayo Banjo who died on Friday, 24th May, 2024, about 22 days after celebrating his 90th birthday, served as the pioneer Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of ACU and later, chairman of the University Board of Trustees, succeeding Emeritus Prof Oladipo Akinkugbe. Before he became pioneer Pro-Chancellor of ACU, he served as chairman of the university implementation committee.
In a tribute dedicated to the deceased, Okeowo described him as a visionary leader whose legacy in ACU will forever be remembered. He said, “Today, we honor and remember our pioneer Pro-Chancellor, Emeritus Prof Ayo Banjo, a visionary leader and pioneering Pro-Chancellor of our great University, whose legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our institution.’’
“He was not only a guiding light for our University but also a source of inspiration for countless students, faculty, and colleagues. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of academic excellence and the betterment of higher education. He believed in the transformative power of education and worked tirelessly to ensure that our University provided the highest quality of learning and development opportunities.’’
“Under his stewardship, our institution flourished, achieving milestones that many deemed impossible. His tenure as Pro-Chancellor was marked by groundbreaking initiatives and unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and integrity. Ayo Banjo championed the creation of state-of-the-art facilities, the development of cutting-edge research programs, and the expansion of our outreach.’’
In his own tribute, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adebayo, said beyond the late Banjo’s professional achievements, he was also known for his compassion, wisdom, and generosity.
He said, “He was a mentor to many, always willing to lend an ear and offer sage advice. His humility and kindness endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.”
Prof. Ayo Banjo was a renowned linguist, grammarian, a two term Vice-Chancellor of the premier University of Ibadan, a former Chairman of National Universities Commission, a world class scholar and university administrator and a national honours awardee.
The family shall announce funeral arrangements in due course. May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo