The prestigious honour was presented to Professor Adebooye, who was represented at the event by his Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Innovation, and Partnerships, Professor Adetunji Lawrence Kehinde. The award ceremony, hosted by the renowned Postgraduate College, followed what the institution described as “a detailed search and exhaustive deliberation” to identify eminent individuals who have made significant and transformative contributions to academia and beyond.
In a statement announcing the award, the Provost of the OAU Postgraduate College, Professor Victor Folorunso Olaleye praised Professor Adebooye’s leadership footprint, describing him as “a visionary academic and administrator whose service has consistently elevated the standards of public education and scholarly excellence in Nigeria.”
Receiving the award, Professor Adebooye expressed heartfelt gratitude to the management of Obafemi Awolowo University for the recognition, noting that the honour is a validation of his life-long commitment to scholarship, public service, and youth development.
“This award is not just about me; it is a tribute to the spirit of innovation and progress that defines Osun State University,” he said. “We are building a University that will stand shoulder to shoulder with the best globally, and this honour from OAU inspires us to aim even higher.”
Since assuming office, Professor Adebooye has overseen remarkable growth at Osun State University, including the expansion of academic programmes, strengthening of global research collaborations, infrastructural transformation, and prioritisation of staff and student welfare. His reputation as a reform-driven administrator and scholar of international repute continues to draw accolades from within and outside the academic community.
The latest recognition from one of Nigeria’s most prestigious federal Universities further cements UNIOSUN’s growing influence in the National and global educational landscape.
Staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders of Osun State University have since joined in celebrating the Vice-Chancellor’s honour, describing it as a proud moment not only for the University but for the entire Osun State academic community.