Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has officially inaugurated Professor Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole as its 5th Vice Chancellor, marking a historic moment in the institution’s 20-year history. The inauguration, which was held on October 1, 2025, drew national attention as she became the first woman to hold the position at the faith-based university.
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including the University Visitor, Most Reverend Dr. Joseph Akinfenwa, Anglican Archbishops and Bishops, members of the governing council, academics, religious leaders, and representatives from various sectors. Friends, family, and well-wishers of the new Vice Chancellor were also present to witness the landmark occasion.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Oduwole unveiled a 10-point vision plan designed to transform Ajayi Crowther University into a globally recognized brand. She emphasized values such as teamwork, integrity, accountability, dedication, and adherence to international best practices as the guiding principles of her administration.
According to her, the vision is rooted in three core pillars: academic renewal, infrastructural expansion, and good governance. She assured the university community that her leadership would prioritize transparent decision-making, quality service delivery, and inclusiveness in all institutional engagements.
Prof. Oduwole also outlined plans for academic innovation, including the introduction of new faculties and programmes. Among the proposals are the establishment of a Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy, as well as a robust Distance Learning Programme to extend the reach of ACU beyond physical classrooms.
To further strengthen the university’s research profile, the new Vice Chancellor announced the creation of a Research Management and Innovation Office. This unit, she explained, will drive the university’s contributions to scholarship, knowledge development, and technological advancement at both national and international levels.
On the welfare of staff and students, Prof. Oduwole pledged to create a safe, supportive, and discipline-driven learning environment. She promised zero tolerance for cultism, bullying, and all forms of misconduct while ensuring that both students and staff enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The new VC emphasized that ACU’s Christian foundation would remain central to its operations. She assured stakeholders that the faith-based values upon which the institution was built would continue to guide academic and moral standards, reinforcing the integration of spiritual formation with scholarly excellence.
Addressing financial matters, Prof. Oduwole stressed the importance of reducing dependence on tuition fees. She promised to diversify revenue streams through innovative income-generating initiatives while strengthening partnerships with industries, donor agencies, and alumni.
She further revealed plans to invest in infrastructure across the university’s four campuses located in Oyo, Kieseni, Osoogun, and Ofa Metta. These campuses, she said, would undergo significant upgrades to reflect a world-class academic environment conducive to learning, teaching, and research.
Prof. Oduwole also pledged to deepen the town-and-gown relationship by fostering stronger ties between the university and its host communities. According to her, initiatives that link academic research to societal needs will be prioritized, ensuring that ACU plays a more visible role in national development.
Concluding her address, she expressed optimism that with unity, resilience, and the support of all stakeholders, Ajayi Crowther University would not only achieve its immediate goals but also stand out as a leading global institution that blends academic excellence with integrity.
Founded in 2005 by the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and named after Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African Anglican bishop, ACU has become one of Nigeria’s foremost faith-based universities. With Prof. Oduwole’s appointment, the insti
