AJAYI CROWTHER UNIVERSITY (ACU), OYO APPROVES NEW DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLORS

The Governing Council of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, during its emergency session held on Monday, 16th March, 2026, has formally ratified a significant restructuring of the university’s executive leadership. Following a rigorous electoral process within the University Senate, the Council approved the appointments of two distinguished scholars to the positions of Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

The appointment of Professor Afolake Atinuke Olanbiwoninu as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Professor Adeyemi Olukayode Binuyo as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) marks a new chapter in the university’s mission to provide qualitative education within a framework of administrative excellence.

The Democratic Mandate: Senate Election and Council Ratification

The path to these appointments was characterized by institutional transparency and adherence to academic due process. On February 23, 2026, a special meeting of the University Senate was convened specifically to conduct an election for these vacant executive roles.

The Senate, being the supreme academic authority of the university, selected these individuals based on their proven track records in research, departmental leadership, and institutional loyalty. The Governing Council, acting as the highest policy-making body, reviewed these elections during their March 16th emergency meeting and provided the final statutory approval. This dual-layered validation ensures that the new DVCs possess both the intellectual respect of their peers and the administrative confidence of the university’s proprietors.

Profiles in Excellence: The New Executive Leadership

The selection of Professors Olanbiwoninu and Binuyo reflects a balanced approach to leadership, merging the biological sciences with the mathematical sciences to oversee the university’s complex operations.

1. Professor Afolake Atinuke Olanbiwoninu (DVC Academic)

Hailing from the Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Professor Olanbiwoninu brings a wealth of experience in curriculum development and research ethics. As the DVC (Academic), her primary focus will be:

• Academic Standards: Overseeing the accreditation of programs and ensuring compliance with the National Universities Commission (NUC) benchmarks.

• Research Innovation: Driving the university’s research output and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Student Progression: Managing the processes surrounding examinations, results, and graduation requirements.

2. Professor Adeyemi Olukayode Binuyo (DVC Administration)

A distinguished academic from the Department of Mathematics, Professor Binuyo is recognized for his logical approach to problem-solving and organizational structure. His role as DVC (Administration) involves:

• Operational Efficiency: Managing the university’s human resources, staff welfare, and physical infrastructure.

• Policy Implementation: Ensuring that the university’s administrative protocols align with the strategic goals set by the Governing Council.

• Crisis Management: Assisting the Vice-Chancellor in maintaining a stable and secure campus environment.

Statutory Framework and Legal Tenure

The appointments are not arbitrary but are deeply rooted in the University Law (2003). The official memos, signed by the University Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun, explicitly cite the legal sections governing these roles.

• Tenure of Office: In accordance with Page 37, Section 4, Subsection 2 of the University Law, the appointments are for an initial term of two years. This period allows for the implementation of medium-term strategic goals, with the possibility of a two-year renewal based on performance and institutional needs.

• Scope of Authority: As stipulated on Page 38, Section 4, Subsection 3, the Deputy Vice-Chancellors serve as the primary lieutenants to the Vice-Chancellor. Their mandate is to provide daily administrative support and execute specialized tasks that ensure the university functions as a cohesive unit.

Institutional Impact: The Road Ahead for ACU

The introduction of these seasoned administrators at the executive level is expected to accelerate the university’s “Transformation Agenda.” By decentralizing the responsibilities of the Vice-Chancellor’s office into clear “Academic” and “Administrative” silos, ACU is positioning itself for greater efficiency.

The University Registrar has expressed confidence that the synergy between Professor Olanbiwoninu and Professor Binuyo will foster a culture of meritocracy and innovation. Their appointments signal to the public, parents, and the NUC that Ajayi Crowther University is committed to a stable, law-abiding, and forward-thinking governance structure.

Conclusion: A Unified Vision for the Future

As Professors Olanbiwoninu and Binuyo assume their new roles, the ACU community looks forward to a period of sustained growth. Their leadership will be instrumental in navigating the challenges of 21st-century higher education, from digital transformation to global research competitiveness. Under the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor and the Governing Council, the new DVCs are poised to uphold the university’s motto of “Education for Service and Self-Reliance.”