Now that ABUAD is 15…

There is a growing consensus among stakeholders in the nation’s education sector in the country and institutions across the world that the establishment of the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) has significantly changed the course of education in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.

The university established by renowned legal icon, educationist and philanthropist, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN in 2009 commenced academic activities in January 2010. In the last 15 years, it has blazed the trail in academic excellence and community development with testimonies from stakeholders especially the Nigeria University Commission (NUC) which described ABUAD as a reference point and a benchmark for university education in the country.

When establishing the institution after his successful stint as the pro-chancellor of University of Lagos (UNILAG), Babalola was unambiguous about his  plan for his university, noting that his vision was to have an institution that would lead the needed reforms in education sector and as well serve as a model for other universities.

Fifteen years later, ABUAD has not only carved a niche for itself, it has clearly shown the nation and beyond how university education should be run, which is evident in the quality of graduates so far churned out, and the cutting-edge research and innovation from the university.

Acknowledging the exploits of the university and its journey to global visibility, the highly respected Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (THEIRs) rated ABUAD as the top university in Nigeria for three consecutive years (2022, 2023 and 2024)  and number one in the world for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which relates to university measures towards affordable and clean energy.

Also, the university was ranked number one in the world in outreach with a score of 98%; number one in the world in stewardship with a score of 98%.2; number one among all the 264 federal, state and private universities in Nigeria for the three consecutive years; number four in Africa and number 142 amongst the 2,152 universities ranked globally in 2024.

It must be stated that across the seven colleges namely: postgraduate studies, engineering, law, medicine and health sciences, science, social and management sciences, pharmacy; a 400-bed space, ABUAD multi-system hospital and the expansive industrial park, the institution has made huge contributions to the advancement of humanity.

Speaking during the event commemorating 15th anniversary of commencement of academic activities, the vice chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, commended what she described as the vision and relentless commitment of the founder in establishing the university.

According to her, “The achievement of ABUAD speaks louder than any word ever could. ABUAD is indeed that dazzling star amongst the galaxy of stars, truly standing out. Though we are 15 years older today, our laurels, awards and encomiums are immeasurable, compared to the number – 15.

“From the vibrant community of lecturers, non-teaching staff and students to the numerous awards and recognitions we have received, each stands as a testament to our unwavering pursuit of excellence.

“Our founder firmly believes that quality and true transformation cannot be achieved by following the conventional path. It requires pursuing excellence and embracing uncommon approaches.

“Over the years, we have attained this remarkable level of national and global recognition due to the exceptional quality of graduates we produce. This success stems from providing impactful education and training that goes beyond earning degrees, focusing equally on integrity, character development and fostering hard work.”

The VC further said, “Take a moment to consider the expanse of this university, from departments to colleges, to directorates, residential complexes, and the many academic programmes, ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate, open and distance learning and part-time studies.

“Think about the thousands of graduates we produce every year and the remarkable impact they are making wherever they go. Reflect on the ABUAD Multisystem Hospital and its life-changing contributions to healthcare, restoring countless patients to a productive and healthy life.

“When we pause to reflect on these milestones, we realise an undeniable truth: it all began with one man’s vision a bold, audacious vision to change the world.

“I have often said, and will continue to say, that one man is all it takes to alter the course of history and shape the destiny of many. A man courageous to dream intimidating dreams, and who possesses the tenacity to turn them into reality.

“This is not the work of artificial intelligence, or today’s digital revolution but the human intelligence, the emotion, and the soul of one extraordinary man: our highly revered Aare Afe Emmanuel Babalola, the living legend, the best Nigerian patriot, the one who has lived through the ages, very great, yet so inspiringly humble.

“As Eleanor Roosevelt rightly posited: ‘the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.’ ABUAD is the living proof of a vision worthy of all sacrifice, commitment, and attention.

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“It started in the mind of our founder, fueled by faith in God and the belief that nothing is impossible. Albert Einstein famously said: (and I quote) ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’ For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.”

Speaking earlier, the Director, Quality Assurance in ABUAD, Professor Yekini Lawal, who recalled how the university began its activities 15 years ago, described Babalola as a pioneer of change and a man who is passionate and dedicated to development of the society.

“The ambition of the founder is to have the university as one of the best 100 in the world in his lifetime, this has been achieved in less than 15 years,” Lawal said.