The Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University of Ilorin (Unilorin), Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, has condemned the ongoing infighting within the institution’s Alumni Association, emphasizing that such divisions are detrimental to the progress and unity of the university community. The VC made his stance clear during a recent address to alumni members, urging them to prioritize the university’s development over personal grievances and disputes.
The Issue of Infighting
The alumni association, which plays a crucial role in supporting the university through donations, networking, and collaboration with current students and faculty, has been marred by internal conflicts. These disagreements, which have been ongoing for some time, involve leadership disputes, differing visions for the association’s direction, and accusations of mismanagement.
The infighting has led to a divided alumni base, with some members taking sides and weakening the association’s ability to function as a unified body. This situation, according to the VC, threatens the university’s ability to fully benefit from the resources, expertise, and network that the alumni community can offer.
VC’s Call for Unity
In his statement, Professor Egbewole called on alumni to put aside their differences and focus on the collective good of the institution. He emphasized that the university’s growth, reputation, and ability to impact society are deeply linked to the active engagement of its alumni. The VC stressed that infighting among alumni members only undermines the institution’s progress and reputation.
“I urge all members of the alumni association to set aside personal disagreements and work together for the advancement of the university,” Professor Egbewole said. “The unity of the alumni community is essential in shaping the future of Unilorin and contributing to the development of our nation.”
The Role of the Alumni Association
The alumni association is an important pillar for any university. It is not just a platform for former students to reconnect but also a vital resource for the university’s growth. Through financial contributions, mentorship programs, scholarships, and professional networks, alumni can make a significant impact on their alma mater. For Unilorin, a university with a growing reputation both locally and internationally, maintaining a strong, cohesive alumni association is key to sustaining its development and expanding its influence.
The division within the alumni group has affected its ability to mobilize these resources effectively, which has had an adverse effect on various university initiatives that rely on alumni support. The VC pointed out that this lack of collaboration hampers the university’s goals for infrastructural development, research projects, and enhancing the overall student experience.
Moving Forward
In response to the internal turmoil, Professor Egbewole has proposed the creation of a reconciliation committee to address the underlying causes of the infighting. The committee, which will be composed of respected alumni leaders and university officials, is tasked with facilitating dialogue, resolving leadership disputes, and establishing a clear vision for the future of the association.
The VC has also called for greater transparency and inclusivity within the alumni community. He urged alumni to engage in constructive discussions that would lead to the formation of a united leadership structure, with a shared vision for the association’s role in supporting the university’s growth.
The call from Unilorin’s VC for unity within the alumni association reflects a growing concern that internal conflicts can undermine the university’s broader goals. As the university continues to strive for excellence, the importance of a united alumni base cannot be overstated. Only through collaboration and collective effort can the alumni association truly contribute to the university’s success and ensure that Unilorin continues to thrive in the years to come.
Professor Egbewole’s plea for reconciliation serves as a timely reminder of the power of unity and the need for all stakeholders—students, faculty, and alumni—to come together for the common purpose of advancing the university’s mission.