Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile‑Ife celebrated one of its most distinguished alumni, Dr Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, the Honourable Minister of Interior of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by presenting him with an Award of Excellence in Public Service. The ceremony took place in the iconic Oduduwa Hall, drawing members of the university community, senior dignitaries, principal officers, and paramilitary officials from across the South‑West region.
Although the programme was slated to commence at 4:00 p.m., it experienced a delay that pushed the start well into the evening. Vice Chancellor Professor Simeon Bamire explained that ongoing convocation activities and other pressing institutional duties were responsible for the postponement, asking attendees for their patience and understanding.
The formal proceedings began with the rendition of the National Anthem followed by the Great Ife Anthem, performed after the arrival of Minister Tunji‑Ojo and his entourage, accompanied by senior paramilitary officers. University Public Relations Officer Mr Abiodun Olanrewaju welcomed the minister, the vice chancellor, the royal father—the Oloyan of Oyan Kingdom—principal officers, dignitaries, and the assembled Great Ife students.
In his opening remarks, Professor Bamire expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr Tunji‑Ojo for accepting the university’s invitation despite his demanding national responsibilities. He apologised for the late start, reiterating that unavoidable administrative engagements had caused the delay, and highlighted recent communications with the minister regarding ongoing university projects.
Professor Bamire noted that Dr Tunji‑Ojo had expressed willingness to support OAU’s ambition to become a hub of research and innovation. The vice chancellor emphasized the importance of aligning the minister’s expertise with the institution’s strategic goals, hinting at future collaborations between the Ministry of Interior and the university.
Taking the podium, Dr Tunji‑Ojo acknowledged the royal father present and apologised for deviating from protocol, stating that he often honours cultural custodians in this manner. He then paid an emotional tribute to former Vice Chancellor Professor Michael Faborode, crediting him with turning a 2‑point shortfall in the Electrical Engineering admission cutoff into an opportunity for Tunji‑Ojo to study at OAU.
The minister recalled how Professor Faborode personally intervened during his admission process, welcoming him and his mother into his office and guaranteeing admission despite the shortage of points. This act, Tunji‑Ojo said, marked a pivotal moment that shaped his academic journey and subsequent public service career.
Addressing the students, Dr Tunji‑Ojo urged them to remain steadfast, resilient, and passionate in all their pursuits. He encouraged them to internalise the “culture of struggle” enshrined in the Great Ife anthem, stressing that perseverance and passion distinguish OAU graduates worldwide.
The minister’s speech underscored the value of perseverance, noting that the university’s anthem celebrates a legacy of overcoming challenges. He challenged the audience to uphold OAU’s tradition of excellence, linking personal determination to national development.
Following the minister’s address, the formal presentation of the Award of Excellence in Public Service took place. Professor Bamire, assisted by other principal officers, handed the accolade to Dr Tunji‑Ojo amid applause from attendees, highlighting his contributions to national security and public administration.
The event concluded with a renewed call for partnership between OAU and Nigeria’s federal ministries, particularly the Ministry of Interior, to foster research, innovation, and community service. The ceremony reinforced the university’s commitment to recognising outstanding alumni who excel in public service.
As the gathering dispersed, the university community expressed optimism that Dr Tunji‑Ojo’s recognition would inspire current students to pursue excellence and civic responsibility, echoing the enduring legacy of Obafemi Awolowo University as a cradle of leadership and national development.
