Ilesa, Osun State – April 29, 2026
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, has outlined remarkable strides recorded by the institution within three years of its establishment, describing the transformation as a testament to vision, resilience, and strategic leadership.
Speaking during a press briefing held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the university, which officially commenced operations in April 2023 following the upgrade of the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, has undergone significant academic and infrastructural development.
According to him, the management inherited a struggling institution marked by dilapidated structures, low student enrollment of fewer than 1,000, demoralized staff, and poor environmental conditions. However, he stated that the narrative has since changed dramatically.
Professor Asaolu disclosed that the university now runs 97 academic programmes, all approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC), covering diverse disciplines such as Law, Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Physiotherapy, Optometry, and Chinese Studies, among others.
He further revealed that the institution has secured approval from the NUC to commence the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme, pending final clearance from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
In terms of accreditation, the Vice-Chancellor described the university’s performance as impressive, noting that 40 programmes have already secured full accreditation, with more lined up for subsequent exercises.
The academic expansion also includes the establishment of a Faculty of Technology, with programmes in Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechatronics Engineering.
Professor Asaolu highlighted a significant increase in student population, which has grown to over 15,000 across degree, JUPEB, and pre-degree programmes—an indication of growing public confidence in the institution.
On infrastructure, he disclosed that the university successfully reclaimed 15 acres of land and 24 housing units previously developed by the Federal Ministry of Housing, which will now host the Faculty of Technology.
The Vice-Chancellor also announced the establishment of the University of Ilesa Teaching Hospital, following the upgrade of the State General Hospital, Ilesa. The facility, he said, will support clinical training for medical students while providing quality healthcare services to the people of Ijesaland.
He commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his pivotal role in the university’s growth, particularly in infrastructure renewal, staff welfare, and institutional stability. He noted that the Governor approved the reconstruction of the university’s road network and addressed long-standing staff welfare issues, including the regularization of over 300 staff and the payment of over ₦3 billion in outstanding allowances.
Professor Asaolu further revealed that the university has benefited from the support of several stakeholders, including TETFund, NELFUND, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, and other notable individuals and organizations.
He pointed out that UNILESA’s unique 18-hole golf course has gained national attention, hosting major tournaments and positioning the institution as an emerging destination for golfing activities.
In a bid to promote strategic sectors, the Vice-Chancellor announced that tuition fees have been waived for students in the Faculties of Education and Agriculture, while children of staff enjoy a 50 percent tuition discount.
The institution has also prioritized practical learning and entrepreneurship, establishing an Integrated Teaching and Research Farm and equipping students with skills in areas such as fashion design, digital content creation, solar installation, agribusiness, and more.
Highlighting academic excellence, Professor Asaolu noted that students and staff have begun to record notable achievements, including success in professional examinations such as ICAN, research grants, and participation in international conferences.
He also referenced key academic milestones, including the university’s first inaugural lecture held in March 2026 and a distinguished public lecture delivered by Dr. Zacch Adedeji in November 2025.
Despite these achievements, the Vice-Chancellor acknowledged pressing challenges, including inadequate student accommodation, unreliable power supply, and the need for additional lecture halls and infrastructure.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the university’s governing council, staff, students, and partners for their collective efforts in building the institution, while reaffirming management’s commitment to sustaining growth and excellence.
“As we consolidate these gains, we remain committed to positioning the University of Ilesa as a centre of academic excellence and innovation,” he said.
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