In a historic stride for gender representation in Nigerian academia, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has appointed Professor Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole as its first-ever female Vice-Chancellor. The landmark decision, reported by The Nation on July 9, 2025, marks a pivotal chapter in the university’s journey and signals a shift toward more inclusive academic leadership.
Prof. Oduwole is a highly respected philosopher, administrator, and academic whose career spans nearly four decades. Known for her integrity, vision, and dedication to education, she brings to the role a wealth of experience and scholarly depth. Her appointment not only honors her impressive academic journey but also positions her as a symbol of hope and progress for aspiring female academics across Nigeria and beyond.
A Trailblazing Academic Career
Prof. Oduwole began her academic journey at the University of Ibadan, where she earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in Philosophy. She also holds a Master of Science in Bioethics, jointly awarded by a consortium of top European institutions: Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), Radboud University Nijmegen (Netherlands), and the University of Padova (Italy)—a rare academic feat that highlights her global exposure and interdisciplinary strength.
She joined the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in 1985 and has since risen through the ranks to become a Professor of African Philosophy. Her academic expertise spans Ethics, Bioethics, Gender Studies, Philosophy of Religion, and African Studies, and she has made significant contributions through research, publications, and teaching in these fields.
Leadership and Administrative Excellence
Beyond scholarship, Prof. Oduwole has distinguished herself as a capable and strategic academic leader. At OOU, she served as:
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Head of the Department of Philosophy (2003–2006)
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Dean, Faculty of Arts
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Deputy Vice-Chancellor (2016–2018) – where she uniquely managed both academic and administrative portfolios, an unprecedented role in the institution
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Vice-Chancellor (Administration) from 2018 to 2020
Her leadership has been marked by reforms, improved academic systems, and a reputation for fairness and forward thinking.
Wider Impact and Recent Roles
Prof. Oduwole has also served on numerous governing councils, regulatory boards, and educational committees across leading institutions, including:
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University of Ibadan
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Osun State University
Her expertise has played a key role in policy development, institutional reforms, and theological education, especially in her recent involvement with the Church of Nigeria Theological Accreditation and Regulatory Board and as a Governing Council member of ACU.
A New Era for ACU
Her appointment as Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University is being widely celebrated as a progressive move. It is expected to usher in a new era of visionary, ethical, and inclusive leadership. With her proven track record in both academics and administration, Prof. Oduwole is seen as a perfect fit to steer the university toward greater innovation, growth, and academic excellence.
Context and Broader Developments
This groundbreaking announcement comes amidst other national developments also reported by The Nation:
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TETFund’s warning to universities mismanaging intervention funds
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Federal Government’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies
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Consensus-building within the APC ahead of key by-elections
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NAPTIP’s rescue of trafficking victims
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Shifts in Nigeria’s political and education landscape
In its coverage, The Nation continues to explore major national issues alongside features on entertainment, health, business, and sports, while also offering advertising content, including online services and promotional platforms.
Conclusion
Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole’s appointment is more than a personal achievement—it is a beacon of progress for the Nigerian education system. As the first woman to lead ACU in its history, her story underscores the importance of equity in leadership and the value of scholarly excellence. Her tenure is expected to inspire not just students and staff at ACU, but also the broader academic community in Nigeria and beyond.
Congratulations to Professor Oduwole on this well-deserved milestone.
