Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has appointed Professor Toyin Ogundipe, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, as the new Chairman and Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State.
This appointment was officially announced in a statement by Redeemer’s University, marking a new dawn for the institution.
The newly reconstituted governing council of Redeemer’s University boasts an impressive lineup of academic and church representatives. Notable members include the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shadrach Akindele; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ahmed Yerima; and University Senate representatives like Prof. Olalere Gabriel Adeyemi and Prof. Christian Happi. Additionally, the council features RCCG representatives such as Prof. Emmanuel Ajav, Pastor (Mrs.) Tomi Somefun, and Pastor Sola Olukoya, alongside legal practitioner Dr. Olaniyi Salau and Redeemer’s University Alumni representative, Mr. Tobi Aniyi.
The National Universities Commission is represented by Mrs. Funmilayo Olusola Kolade, with Mrs. Mojisola Oje serving as the Registrar and Council Secretary. Supporting this robust team are Mrs. Patience Saliu, the University Bursar, and Dr. Akinniyi Adeleke, the University Librarian.
Professor Toyin Ogundipe’s illustrious career began with his education at Araromi Baptist School, Moloney Street, and continued through Eko Boys’ High School and C.M.S. Grammar School. He embarked on his A-levels in 1977 at the tender age of 17.
Ogundipe then advanced to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he pursued a degree in Botany, completing his undergraduate studies in 1984.
Following his National Youth Service Corps tenure in Tai-Eleme, Rivers State, Ogundipe returned to Ife to earn his Master’s and PhD in Botany. He completed his doctorate in March 1990 and embarked on his academic journey at the University of Lagos in May 1990, achieving the rank of professor by 2002.
Ogundipe’s academic journey is further enriched by training at esteemed global institutions, including the University of Cambridge, Harvard University, the University of Reading, and the Kunming Institute of Botany in China.
His research expertise spans Molecular Plant Taxonomy, Forensic Botany, Cytogenetics, Ethnobotany, and Ecological Conservation, with a commendable portfolio of over 90 publications and eight co-authored books.
A recipient of numerous fellowships, including those from the Nigerian Academy of Science and the Royal Society of Biology, Ogundipe has played pivotal roles at the University of Lagos, such as head of the Department of Botany and dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies.
His tenure as Vice-Chancellor from 2017 to 2022 was marked by significant reforms and strengthened academia-industry ties.
The statement from Redeemer’s University emphasized, “This appointment marks a new chapter for Redeemer’s University, with Professor Ogundipe bringing extensive experience in academic administration and research excellence to his new role.”
Professor Ogundipe, a dedicated family man, is celebrated for his storied career and commitment to excellence. His leadership is anticipated to guide Redeemer’s University into a promising future.
