Vice President Kashim Shettima has been conferred with the University of Ibadan’s highest alumni honour as Ambassador Plenipotentiary, during the institution’s 75th anniversary celebration. He pledged to support the university’s efforts to reclaim its global academic prominence and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalising education in Nigeria.
Shettima made the pledge at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the institution, led by Vice Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale. The visit was to confer on him the title of UI@75 Ambassador Plenipotentiary, in recognition of his achievements and longstanding ties to the university as a distinguished alumnus.
Describing UI as the “greatest citadel of learning in Nigeria and West Africa,” the Vice President recalled his time as a postgraduate student, noting that the university once attracted students from across Africa and produced numerous icons who have shaped the continent’s progress.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s education sector, Shettima said the Tinubu administration would mobilise both public and private sector support to reposition the country’s tertiary institutions, with the University of Ibadan taking a leading role.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition,” he said. “This plaque will be proudly displayed in my office as a reminder of the strong bond I share with this great university.”
Earlier, Professor Adebowale said the visit was part of activities marking UI’s 75th anniversary. He noted that the university, founded on November 17, 1948, had launched a year long programme through its UI@75 Committee to honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to humanity.
He explained that while several alumni had been appointed UI@75 Ambassadors, and prominent non alumni named Ambassadors Extraordinaire, Senator Shettima is the only alumnus to be conferred with the title Ambassador Plenipotentiary—the highest honour reserved for graduates of the institution.
The Vice President was formally decorated by the university’s Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Saliu, who presented him with a commemorative plaque on behalf of the Council, Senate, staff and students.
Other members of the delegation included Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Peter Olapegba, Director of the Office of Alumni Relations Professor Olakunbi Olasope, Dr. Babatunde Blavo, Mr. Oladayo Olajide, and Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo of the Directorate of Public Communication.
