The University Librarian of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Kamaldeen Tunde Omopupa, has revealed that the University Library is taking proactive steps to make the institution’s upcoming 50th anniversary a memorable celebration.
Prof. Omopupa made this disclosure on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, while appearing on Countdown to UNILORIN @ 50, a personality interview programme of UNILORIN 89.3 FM jointly anchored by Mr. Idris Akintola Ibrahim (Idris Alooma) and Mr. Oyakhire Ikhuemein.
As part of the anniversary preparations, the Library is constructing a galleria that will showcase and preserve the University’s major milestones over the last five decades.
“Celebrating the establishment of the University is also celebrating the birth of the University Library,” Prof. Omopupa said. “The history of UNILORIN cannot be told without adequate reference to the Library, which has played a key role in the University’s evolution and sustenance since 1975.”
Prof. Omopupa highlighted the Library’s status as one of the most resourceful in Nigeria, equipped with up-to-date materials and staffed by highly trained and committed personnel. He noted that the Library employs 31 academic librarians, many holding doctorates in Library and Information Science, while about 10 staff members are currently pursuing advanced degrees locally or abroad—a staffing quality that few Nigerian university libraries can match.
“The Library has not only served UNILORIN students and staff but also members of the public, particularly those from the University’s host community,” he added.
Prof. Omopupa further emphasized the Library’s outreach, including the donation of books and journals to educational institutions in and around Ilorin, and the training of staff from local schools in effective library services.
He expressed gratitude to the management of Ilorin Central Jumaat Mosque Library for
donating books, and appreciated the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, as well as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for their generous support to the Library.
“Our mission is to ensure the Library continues to provide quality services while preserving the rich history of UNILORIN for current and future generations,” Prof. Omopupa concluded.
