Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria, reaffirmed its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness during its 7th Governing Council Retreat held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. Themed “Driving Excellence Through a Dynamic Academic Landscape: Translating University Vision, Mission, and Objectives to Measurable Outcomes,” the one-day event convened members of the Governing Council, Provosts, Deans, Directors, and key stakeholders to strategize on the institution’s growth and sustainability. The retreat provided a platform for reflection and forward-thinking dialogue, focusing on enhancing the university’s visibility and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. Discussions centered on aligning the university’s aspirations with measurable outcomes to ensure accountability, excellence, and global relevance.
In his opening address, Founder and Chancellor Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, represented by Deputy Chancellor Chief Lucky Igbinedion, urged the Governing Council to uphold accountability, dedication, and strategic leadership, building on the achievements of previous councils. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye described the retreat as a critical forum for institutional development, emphasizing stakeholder engagement to shape the university’s long-term vision. The keynote address, delivered virtually by Mr. Kyari Abba Bukar, Chairman of SUNU Assurances Plc, highlighted the importance of digital literacy and blended learning systems. Bukar stressed that academic excellence requires deliberate strategies, measurable goals, and continuous improvement, famously stating, “A vision without measurement is hallucination; a mission without measurement is wishful thinking; and objectives without outcomes are empty promises.”
Bukar further emphasized the need for Nigerian universities to produce entrepreneurial, globally competitive graduates, supported by well-trained faculty, robust alumni networks, and strategic governance. He acknowledged systemic challenges like inadequate funding and brain drain but urged institutions to view these as drivers of innovation. Other speakers echoed these sentiments. Dr. Aisha Laruba Abdullahi advocated for global visibility through international collaborations and investments in research infrastructure, while Prof. Chinedum Peace Babalola stressed the synergy between the Governing Council and Management, noting, “Council steers with clarity; Management rows with excellence.” Their contributions underscored the need for cohesive leadership and global partnerships to elevate the university’s standing.
Financial sustainability and innovation were key discussion points. Prof. Olufemi Olaiya Balogun warned that over-reliance on tuition fees is unsustainable, calling for diversified revenue streams through endowment funds, alumni contributions, public-private partnerships, and research commercialization. He advised closing non-viable programs to reallocate resources strategically. Prof. Nnonyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso focused on translational research, advocating for investments in research hubs and industry collaborations to address societal challenges. These discussions highlighted the university’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and real-world impact, ensuring that research and education remain relevant and transformative.
The retreat concluded with renewed collaboration between the Governing Council and Management, attended by prominent figures such as Pro-Chancellor Prof. Ahmed Tijani Mora, Deputy Chairman Dr. Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan (SAN), and Prof. Raphael Adeghe. Certificates were presented to participants, symbolizing their commitment to implementing global best practices in governance and education delivery. The outcomes of the retreat are expected to guide Igbinedion University’s efforts to achieve academic excellence, foster innovation, and establish itself as a leading institution in Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing its role as a beacon of higher education in a dynamic global landscape.
