By Edward Oseghe
OKADA, Edo State – Igbinedion University, Okada, has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness as it positions itself to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the higher education landscape.
This resolution was the key outcome of the university’s 7th Governing Council Retreat, held on Tuesday, with the theme: “Driving Excellence Through a Dynamic Academic Landscape: Translating University Vision, Mission, and Objectives to Measurable Outcomes.”
The one-day retreat convened members of the Governing Council, Provosts, Deans, and Directors to chart a strategic course for the institution’s growth and sustainability.
The retreat provided a platform for reflection, deliberation, and forward-thinking dialogue on enhancing the university’s visibility and competitiveness.
Discussions centered on translating institutional aspirations into measurable outcomes that promote excellence, accountability, and relevance on the global stage.
In his opening address, the university’s Founder and Chancellor, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, represented by the Deputy Chancellor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, charged the Council with upholding the principles of accountability, dedication, and strategic leadership. He urged members to build on the achievements of the previous Council and drive the university towards greater heights.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, in his welcome address, described the retreat as a critical forum for institutional development and stakeholder engagement. He noted that such sessions allow key stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the university’s long-term vision.
Delivering the keynote address virtually, Chairman of SUNU Assurances Plc, Mr. Kyari Abba Bukar, emphasised the growing importance of digital literacy in academic environments. He called for the integration of digital platforms into blended learning systems and underlined that academic excellence must be pursued deliberately through strategy, measurable goals, and continuous improvement.
“A vision without measurement is hallucination; a mission without measurement is wishful thinking; and objectives without outcomes are empty promises,” Bukar asserted.
He highlighted the need for Nigerian universities to produce graduates who are entrepreneurial, intellectually sound, and globally competitive—supported by well-trained faculty, robust alumni networks, and strategic, accountable governance.
While acknowledging systemic challenges such as inadequate funding and brain drain, Bukar insisted these must become drivers of innovation rather than barriers to progress.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments.
Dr. Aisha Laruba Abdullahi stressed the need for global visibility and international collaboration. She cited structural challenges—including limited staff and student mobility and weak global partnerships—but argued that deliberate investments in research infrastructure and digital platforms could help overcome them.
Prof. (Mrs.) Chinedum Peace Babalola underscored the importance of synergy between the Governing Council and university Management.
“Council steers with clarity; Management rows with excellence,” she noted, adding that effective governance hinges on trust, communication, and a shared vision.
Prof. Olufemi Olaiya Balogun addressed financial sustainability, warning that overdependence on tuition fees is unsustainable. He called for the diversification of revenue streams through endowment funds, alumni contributions, public-private partnerships, and commercialization of research.
“To ensure financial resilience, institutions must close non-viable programs and reallocate resources strategically,” Balogun advised.
Prof. Nnonyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso focused on the role of innovation and translational research in bridging the gap between academia and real-world impact. He advocated for investments in research hubs, industry collaboration, and interdisciplinary initiatives to ensure that academic research addresses pressing societal challenges.
The retreat served as a springboard for renewed collaboration between the Council and Management, and emphasised the university’s commitment to implementing global best practices in governance and education delivery.
Prominent attendees included the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Ahmed Tijani Mora; Deputy Chairman of Council, Dr. Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan (SAN); Prof. Chinedum Peace Babalola; Prof. Raphael Adeghe; and other key members of the university community.
The retreat concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants.
