The management of Atiba University, Oyo, has inaugurated an 11-member planning committee to coordinate activities marking the institution’s 10th anniversary and the 75th birthday of its Founder and President, Dr. James Adesokan Ojebode.
The inauguration took place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Senate Chamber of the university, with principal officers of the institution in attendance.
The committee is chaired by Professor Abdulrahman Adeniran Tella, while Dr. Aderemi Adekunle will serve as co-chairman. Dr. Oluwatoyin Kolawole was appointed secretary.
Other members are Dr. Adeniyi Morenikeji Adeleke, Mr. James Adegoke Adelakun, Dr. Theophilus Akpan Joshua, Pastor Abiola Olawale, Alhaji Ganiyu Oyinlola, Mr. Samson Abidemi Ajayi, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Koseganlola Risikat Kadri and Dr. Moses Sunday Adeyemi.
According to a statement issued by Goke Adelakun, a member of the planning committee, the body is expected to develop a comprehensive programme and strategic plan for the twin celebrations.
Its responsibilities include proposing and coordinating anniversary activities, preparing a realistic budget, identifying potential funding sources and sponsors, and managing publicity, media relations, branding and communication.
The committee is also expected to recommend distinguished personalities and stakeholders who have contributed to the university’s development for recognition and awards. Other duties include coordinating anniversary publications, souvenirs, documentaries and other commemorative materials.
Speaking during the inauguration, Dr. Ojebode described the forthcoming celebrations as an opportunity to reflect on a decade of the university’s development, highlighting the vision, sacrifice, perseverance, growth and service that have characterised the institution’s journey.
He said his vision of establishing a university that would provide quality education, develop human capacity, nurture responsible citizens, promote innovation and contribute to societal development had remained a dream for 15 years before it became a reality.
According to him, the establishment of Atiba University was made possible through faith, determination, sacrifice and perseverance, with the institution becoming operational on March 11, 2018.
The founder expressed gratitude to God for the progress recorded by the university, acknowledging the challenges, difficult decisions and moments of uncertainty encountered along the way.
He also appreciated individuals and institutions that had contributed to the university’s growth, including members of the Board of Trustees, successive Governing Councils, management teams, academic and non-academic staff, students, parents, alumni, regulatory institutions, local and international partners, benefactors, community leaders and friends of the institution.
Explaining the significance of the twin celebrations, Ojebode urged committee members to look beyond ceremonies, speeches and photographs, describing the anniversary as a platform for reflection, renewal, repositioning and renewed commitment to the university’s mission.
He said the occasion should provide an opportunity for the institution to assess its journey, identify lessons learned, evaluate its achievements and determine its future direction.
The founder charged the committee with the responsibility of helping the university tell its story through activities that would have lasting value for the institution and its stakeholders.
He stressed the need for creativity, transparency, accountability, discipline, teamwork, integrity and excellence in planning and executing the anniversary programme.
Ojebode further urged the committee to design activities that would celebrate the university’s achievements, honour its pioneers, recognise benefactors and outstanding staff, celebrate distinguished graduates and alumni, and showcase the talents and accomplishments of students.
He also called for programmes that would engage the host community, strengthen relationships with local and international partners, explore fundraising opportunities and document the institution’s history for the benefit of future generations.
Looking ahead, the founder said the anniversary should serve as a bridge between the university’s history and its future, urging the committee to build on the foundation laid during the institution’s first decade.
He identified academic excellence, research and innovation, technology and digital transformation, partnerships, entrepreneurship, employability and improved infrastructure as important areas requiring sustained attention.
He expressed the hope that the anniversary would encourage renewed commitment to the university’s mission and strengthen its capacity to contribute to educational development and society.
A major highlight of the inauguration was the official presentation of the anniversary theme by the founder and president.
The theme is “Ten Years of Excellence: Building the Future, and Impacting Generations.”
The event concluded with group photographs involving members of the planning committee and principal officers of the university.
