The authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, have announced the appointment of former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adejare Bello, as the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, which was obtained in Osogbo.
According to the statement, Bello’s appointment reflects the university’s confidence in his leadership capacity and his ability to contribute meaningfully to the institution’s continued growth and development.
Olarewaju noted that Bello brings to the position a wealth of experience gathered from years of public service, legislative leadership, and diplomatic engagement.
The statement highlighted that Bello previously served with distinction as Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, where he was widely regarded for demonstrating exemplary leadership, integrity, and dedication to democratic governance.
Beyond his legislative career, the new pro-chancellor also represented Nigeria on the international stage as an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mexico in June 2021. During his diplomatic tenure, he also held concurrent accreditation to Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama, where he played a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and promoting intergovernmental cooperation.
University authorities stated that Bello’s international exposure and experience in governance are expected to bring valuable insight to the leadership of the institution as it pursues academic excellence and institutional advancement.
The statement further described Bello as a proud alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, noting that he earned his degree in Law from the institution. His educational background and long-standing connection to the university were said to place him in a unique position to appreciate its heritage, understand its aspirations, and contribute strategically to its future direction.
“An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Rt. Hon. Bello earned his degree in Law. His academic background and enduring connection to the university uniquely position him to understand its heritage, aspirations, and strategic direction,” the statement read in part.
The university expressed confidence that Bello’s appointment would strengthen the governance structure of the institution and support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining OAU’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost centres of learning and research.
As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Bello will be responsible for providing oversight to the university’s administrative and policy direction, while also supporting initiatives designed to enhance academic standards, infrastructure development, and global partnerships.
The appointment marks a new phase in the leadership of the institution as it continues to pursue reforms and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for students, staff, and researchers within the university community.
