The McPherson University community in Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State, erupted in heartfelt excitement as staff, students, and members of the McPherson University Staff School gathered to celebrate the 61st birthday of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Igbasan. The event, held on campus, was marked by warmth, gratitude, and a shared sense of pride in the institution’s steady progress under his leadership.
The celebration attracted a diverse crowd from across the university system, reflecting the deep respect enjoyed by the Vice-Chancellor. Students expressed admiration for his approachable leadership style, while staff members described the occasion as a fitting tribute to someone who has played a pivotal role in the university’s growth.
At the centre of the joyful gathering was the desire to acknowledge Prof. Igbasan’s transformative leadership. Over the years, he has been instrumental in repositioning the university for greater visibility, academic credibility, and infrastructural advancement. Many attendees noted that his dedication to service has become a source of motivation for the entire workforce.
In his goodwill message, the Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale, praised the Vice-Chancellor for his commitment to developing both human and institutional capacity. He described Prof. Igbasan as a leader who invests deeply in people, always seeking to empower colleagues and students to reach their full potential.
Mr. Adebowale highlighted several initiatives championed by the Vice-Chancellor, including reforms aimed at improving administrative efficiency and enhancing staff welfare. According to him, these reforms have made McPherson University a more vibrant and goal-driven institution.
The University Librarian, Dr. Jerome Idiengbyen-Ose, also expressed admiration for the celebrant, noting that his experience at the university has been nothing short of fulfilling. He emphasised that Prof. Igbasan’s leadership has created an environment where innovation and excellence thrive.
Dr. Idiengbyen-Ose added that he has never regretted joining the institution, stressing that the Vice-Chancellor’s influence has played a major role in shaping the library’s growth, digitisation efforts, and overall academic support structure. He credited the progress to the clear vision and spiritual depth that guide the Vice-Chancellor’s decisions.
He further explained that Prof. Igbasan embodies humility, purpose, and divine inspiration, qualities that have contributed significantly to the remarkable progress recorded across the university. He described him as “a man God is using to accomplish great things,” noting that his leadership has brought about visible transformation.
The University Chaplain, Rev. Ibiwunmi Alo, led a solemn moment of prayer during the celebration. He prayed for renewed wisdom, strength, and divine favour for the Vice-Chancellor, asking God to continue guiding him in the discharge of his responsibilities and in his personal life.
The prayer session added a spiritual depth to the occasion, reminding attendees of the Christian foundation on which McPherson University stands. It also underscored the reverence with which the community holds its leaders, particularly those who have demonstrated sound moral and administrative integrity.
Responding to the outpouring of love, Prof. Igbasan expressed profound gratitude to God, describing his life as a testament to divine mercy. He recalled several moments in his journey where he relied solely on God’s help, noting that every milestone achieved has been made possible through grace.
He also extended heartfelt appreciation to the entire McPherson University community for their unwavering support. According to him, the unity of purpose displayed by staff and students has been instrumental in achieving the collective vision of institutional growth.
Prof. Igbasan reiterated that the successes recorded under his tenure were not accomplishments of a single individual. Instead, he emphasised that progress emerged from cooperation, shared commitment, and the willingness of everyone to contribute meaningfully to the university’s development.
The event concluded with renewed optimism among attendees, many of whom expressed hope that the Vice-Chancellor’s next phase of life would usher in even greater achievements for the university. The celebration served not only as a birthday tribute but also as a reaffirmation of the community’s confidence in his leadership.
