Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, has announced with pride that its Vice Chancellor, Professor Olugbenga Ige, has been selected by TELL Communications Limited, one of Nigeria’s foremost media organisations, as one of the “20 Best Performing Vice Chancellors in Nigeria.”
The prestigious recognition is featured in a special edition of TELL Magazine themed “Integrity in Leadership: 20 Best Performing Vice Chancellors in Nigeria,” published between December 29, 2025 and January 5, 2026. The publication serves as an authoritative reference on exemplary leadership and governance in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
The honour underscores Professor Ige’s visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and the transformative impact of his administration since assuming office as Vice Chancellor. As the chief executive and academic head of the university, his role demands a relentless pursuit of excellence—a standard he has consistently embodied.
In a formal communication, TELL Magazine noted that the selection celebrates vice chancellors who demonstrate exceptional leadership in the day-to-day management and strategic direction of their institutions. Being listed among this distinguished cohort, the magazine stated, is a testament to Professor Ige’s integrity, innovative governance style, and dedication to advancing the mission of Adekunle Ajasin University on both national and global platforms.
The entire AAUA community—staff, students, alumni, and friends of the institution—has extended warm congratulations to Professor Ige on this well-deserved national recognition.
The award is not only a personal milestone for the Vice Chancellor but also a reflection of the collective progress, diligence, and positive institutional culture fostered at Adekunle Ajasin University under his leadership. It further reinforces the university’s growing reputation as a centre of academic excellence and ethical leadership.
A cerebral leader with infectious charisma, proven capacity, and extensive administrative experience, Professor Ige has made significant contributions to the growth and administration of tertiary education in Ondo State and beyond through various leadership roles. His impact on education has earned him several notable honours, including being named “Ondo State Pillar of Education” by Hero Magazine (2020) and “Role Model in Ondo State” by Sunshine Standard Magazine (2021).
He has also received the “Distinguished Town and Gown Human Capital Development Award” from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (Ondo State Chapter) and was named “Distinguished Educationist and Administrator of the Year 2023” by the Nigerian Union of Journalists.
Professor Ige’s scientific research and scholarly publications have attracted national acclaim, culminating in an “Award of Excellence as the Most Outstanding Science Professor in Nigeria.” His institution’s academic stature was further recognised when Exclusive World Magazine named Adekunle Ajasin University the “Premier Academic Institution of the Year.”
In recognition of his service to humanity, he has received the “Premium Humanitarian Excellence Award” from the National Association of Students with Special Needs (NASSN), a “Meritorious Service Award” from the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, and a “Distinguished Personality Award” from the Federal Road Safety Corps. His dedication to societal development has also earned him an Award of Excellence from the Yoruba Parapo Youths Movement.
Other notable recognitions include an award for excellent service from the National Association of University Students (NAUS, CNC Ondo Chapter) and the “Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity” from the Southern Youth Forum.
The university community has been urged to share in this pride and to continue supporting the vision that has earned its leader this remarkable national honour.
Adekunle Ajasin University joins TELL Magazine in celebrating this outstanding achievement.
Congratulations, Professor Olugbenga Ige.
Signed:
Victor A. Akinpelumi
Deputy Registrar, Information, Protocols and Public Relations
Head, Radio AAUA 90.3FM
Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko
