UNILORIN VC, Egbewole shares joy of Xmas with Christian staff

In a heartwarming display of fraternity and goodwill, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, last Monday (December 25, 2023) led a delegation of Muslim Principal Officers, Deans, and Directors on a special Christmas visit to the homes of their Christian colleagues.

The Christmas visitation, which has become a cherished tradition at the University of Ilorin, serves as a powerful example of inter-faith harmony and unity, fostering an environment where individuals from diverse religious backgrounds can come together to celebrate shared values and aspirations.

Some of the places visited include the residences of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho; Council members of the University, Prof Adegboyega Adisa Fawole; and Prof. Foluwasayo Emmanuel Ologe; the Dean of Arts, Prof. Olalere Adeyemi; the Dean Agriculture, Prof. Oluyemisi Fawole; and the Dean of Management Sciences, Prof. Rotimi Ayodele Adeoti.

At various destinations, the Vice Chancellor emphasised the significance of the visit, highlighting its role in strengthening the bonds of unity among members of the diverse religious communities within the institution. He expressed his belief that such unity would contribute to elevating the University to greater heights.

In addition to spreading Yuletide cheers, Prof. Egbewole took the opportunity of the visit to express appreciation for the dedication of all Christian members of staff of the University of Ilorin. He commended their contributions to the progress of the University as he also encouraged them to continue with their hard work in the coming year.

“As we look forward to 2024 and beyond, I expect even more remarkable achievements from our Christian colleagues. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and I am confident that together, we can achieve remarkable milestones in the pursuit of academic excellence,” Prof. Egbewole remarked.

In a chat with the UNILORIN BULLETIN at his residence, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho, said he was truly delighted to receive the team in his house.

He said, “We are grateful to God for the gift of life, allowing us all to witness this moment. This is the way it should be reflecting the values in which we were raised. It is the most effective path for our country to progress”.

While emphasising the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective on religion, Prof. Omotesho said, “We acknowledge that our connection to religion is inherent, as we were born into it. However, it should not be the sole driving force shaping every aspect of our lives. Striking a balance is crucial for our collective progress as a nation.”

Expressing his gratitude for the visit, Prof. Folu Ologe, said he was pleased and feel valued by the Vice Chancellor’s visit to his home. “We are grateful for this gesture. Today’s event symbolises unity and love, qualities that can contribute to addressing the challenges we face as a nation. If other institutions can embrace this innovative idea, it could pave the way for positive change.”

Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, shared his elation, revealing that he had eagerly anticipated this moment for a long period and was genuinely happy about its occurrence.

Also speaking, the Director of the General Studies Unit, Prof. Rotimi Williams Omotoye, expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for visiting Christians among the University staff, stating that the visit demonstrated love, cordiality, and fellowship. He extended a prayer for the continuous strengthening of the bonds of love among the university community.

On his part, the Director of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Prof. Rowland Monday Kayode, emphasised that sharing love is a fundamental principle of Christmas and it was in this spirit of love that the University management and others visited Christian staff of the institution.

Prof. Kayode expressed appreciation for the gesture, pointing out that the visitation signifies assurance that the University will persist in its growth and strength due to the presence of love and understanding among the University’s management, staff, and students.