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| The University of Ibadan has appointed Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as its 14th Vice-Chancellor, with his tenure beginning in November 2026. |
The University of Ibadan new VC has officially been announced. The Governing Council of the University of Ibadan (UI) has appointed Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the institution's 14th Vice-Chancellor, following a rigorous and transparent selection process.
The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Nigeria's premier university as Professor Olapegba prepares to succeed the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, whose tenure will end on November 1, 2026.
The announcement was made by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Adebisi Akande, after the Council unanimously approved the recommendation of the Joint Council-Senate Selection Board.
University of Ibadan Appoints New Vice-Chancellor
The University of Ibadan Appoints New Vice-Chancellor to Lead Next Phase of Academic Excellence after conducting one of its most competitive selection exercises in recent years.
According to Chief Adebisi Akande, the appointment process complied fully with the provisions of the University Act governing the appointment of Vice-Chancellors.
The Governing Council described the exercise as:
- Thorough
- Transparent
- Merit-based
- Highly competitive
Following the process, Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba emerged as the best candidate among eight applicants.
Who Is Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba?
Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba is a distinguished academic and administrator at the University of Ibadan.
Before his appointment as Vice-Chancellor, he served as:
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration)
- Professor in the Department of Psychology
Over the years, he has contributed significantly to teaching, research, university administration, and institutional development.
His extensive leadership experience within the university is expected to support a smooth transition into his new role.
How the Selection Process Was Conducted
The appointment followed a carefully structured process designed to ensure fairness and transparency.
1. Public Advertisement
The vacancy for Vice-Chancellor was advertised in April 2026 through three national newspapers.
Initially, six qualified candidates submitted applications.
2. Search Team
As required by law, the Governing Council established a Search Team to identify additional qualified academics who had not applied.
This exercise produced two more applications, bringing the total number of candidates to eight.
3. Council Assessment
On Tuesday, July 21, the Governing Council met with all eight candidates.
Each council member independently evaluated and scored every candidate using approved assessment guidelines.
Following the assessment, the top five candidates were shortlisted in order of merit.
4. Final Interview
The Joint Council-Senate Selection Board interviewed the five shortlisted candidates before recommending Professor Olapegba as the best-qualified applicant.
The Governing Council unanimously accepted the recommendation.
Statement by Chief Adebisi Akande
While announcing the appointment, Chief Adebisi Akande praised the integrity of the process.
He stated:
"The selection exercise was thorough, transparent and highly competitive."
He officially presented Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, wishing him success during his tenure.
When Will the New Vice-Chancellor Assume Office?
Professor Olapegba will officially assume office after the expiration of the current Vice-Chancellor's tenure.
Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Appointment Approved | July 2026 |
| Incumbent's Tenure Ends | November 1, 2026 |
| Professor Olapegba Assumes Office | November 2026 |
This transition ensures continuity in the university's leadership.
What the Appointment Means for the University of Ibadan
As Nigeria's first university, the University of Ibadan has built a reputation for academic excellence, research, and innovation.
The appointment of Professor Olapegba is expected to strengthen the institution's efforts in:
- Academic excellence
- Research development
- International collaborations
- Student welfare
- Digital transformation
- Institutional governance
Many members of the university community believe his administrative experience positions him well to lead the institution into its next phase of growth.
Why This Appointment Matters
Vice-Chancellors play a critical role in shaping university policy, academic standards, staff development, and student success.
Professor Olapegba's appointment comes at a time when Nigerian universities are focusing on:
- Improved global rankings
- Increased research funding
- Digital learning
- Industry partnerships
- Graduate employability
His leadership will likely influence these strategic priorities during his tenure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan?
The new Vice-Chancellor is Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba, formerly the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration).
Which Vice-Chancellor is Professor Olapegba?
He becomes the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.
When does he assume office?
He is expected to assume office after November 1, 2026, when the tenure of the current Vice-Chancellor expires.
Which department does Professor Olapegba belong to?
He is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Ibadan.
Final Thoughts
The appointment of Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the University of Ibadan new VC represents an important milestone in the history of Nigeria's premier university.
Following a transparent and highly competitive selection process involving eight candidates, the Governing Council unanimously approved his appointment as the institution's 14th Vice-Chancellor.
As he prepares to take office in November 2026, students, staff, alumni, and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how his leadership advances the university's tradition of academic excellence.
