The first inaugural lecturer of the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, the esteemed Professor Oladele Awobuluyi. Prof. Oladele Awobuluyi was one of the founding fathers of University of Ilorin, Nigeria, and he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution.
You’ll recall that the Better by Far University was established in 1975, hence, the 50th anniversary celebration this year, 2025. The University started with three foundation faculties: the faculties of Arts, Education and Science. The Linguist and Erudite Professor Awobuluyi was the Pioneer Dean of the Faculty of Arts (1976-1980). He was also the Pioneer Head of the Department of Linguistics which later became the Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages.
Prof. Oladele Awobuluyi delivered the first inaugural lecture of the university on February 15, 1979. He titled his lecture “The New National Policy on Education In Linguistics Perspectives”.
Recently, on May 22, 2025, Prof. Awobuluyi attended the university’s 282nd inaugural lecture (46 years after his) which was delivered by the first female professor from the department, Prof. Bolanle Elizabeth Arokoyo. It was heartwarming to see him present. Baba was really happy to have witnessed that happened, just as we’re grateful for his continued presence among