The Governing Council of the University of Ibadan (UI) has appointed Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the institution’s 14th substantive Vice-Chancellor, marking a significant milestone in the history of Nigeria’s premier university.
The appointment was announced on July 22, 2026, following a competitive selection process in which Professor Olapegba emerged successful among eight candidates considered for the prestigious position. He is expected to assume office upon the completion of the tenure of the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, whose term ends on October 31, 2026.
Professor Olapegba, a distinguished scholar in the field of psychology, has had a long-standing relationship with the University of Ibadan. Born in Ibadan in 1970 and raised in Igboora, Oyo State, he obtained all his academic qualifications from the institution, earning his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees before rising through the academic ranks to become a professor.
Before his appointment, he served as the university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, where he played a key role in academic administration, institutional planning and policy implementation. His experience within the university system is widely seen as an advantage as he prepares to lead one of Africa’s most respected institutions of higher learning.
The announcement has been greeted with enthusiasm by members of the university community, including staff, students, alumni and residents of his hometown. Many have described his appointment as a testament to hard work, dedication and academic excellence.
Former students and colleagues have particularly highlighted his reputation as an approachable lecturer, mentor and administrator. They expressed confidence that his leadership style would foster greater collaboration, innovation and institutional growth.
Education stakeholders note that Professor Olapegba assumes office at a time when Nigerian universities face numerous challenges, including funding constraints, infrastructure needs, research development and the growing demand for quality education in an increasingly competitive global environment.
Analysts believe his background in psychology and university administration could provide valuable insights into managing the complex human and institutional dynamics associated with leading a large academic community.
The University of Ibadan, established in 1948, remains Nigeria’s oldest university and one of the continent’s most influential centres of teaching, research and scholarship. As Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olapegba will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, advancing academic excellence and strengthening the institution’s national and international reputation.
Higher education experts have expressed optimism that his appointment will contribute to the university’s continued growth in research output, innovation and global competitiveness. They also expect him to prioritise student welfare, staff development and the expansion of partnerships with local and international institutions.
For many observers, his emergence reflects the university’s tradition of nurturing academic talent from within and promoting merit-based leadership. His journey from student to professor, administrator and now Vice-Chancellor has been widely celebrated as an inspiring example of dedication to scholarship and service.
As preparations begin for the leadership transition later in the year, stakeholders across the university community have pledged their support for the incoming Vice-Chancellor, expressing hope that his tenure will build upon the achievements of previous administrations while charting a bold vision for the future.
Professor Olapegba’s appointment represents a new chapter in the history of the University of Ibadan, one that many believe holds significant promise for the institution and the broader Nigerian higher education sector.
