The University of Ibadan (UI) has officially inaugurated the management board for its newly established Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Centre of Excellence for Diaspora Studies.
The ceremony, held at the university, marks a significant step in advancing diaspora research and collaboration.
Professor Peter O. Olapegba, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), officiated the event on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale. He highlighted that the creation of the Centre followed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in 2023 between UI and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
The agreement was spearheaded by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, NIDCOM’s Chairman.
The newly formed board is tasked with overseeing policy approval and ratification, ensuring that the Centre’s management team implements strategies effectively.
Additionally, the board is expected to report its activities directly to the Vice-Chancellor, maintaining a transparent and accountable governance structure.
Professor Senayon Olaoluwa, the Director of the TETFund Centre of Excellence for Diaspora Studies, expressed gratitude towards NIDCOM and Honourable Dabiri-Erewa for their unwavering support. He also commended the University of Ibadan for its dedication to establishing the Centre.
Key NIDCOM representatives on the board include Honourable Abdulrahman Terab, Head of Technology Transfer and Innovation Department, and Mr. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media/Public Relations. Also present at the inauguration was Mr. Oladipo Odebowale, Head of the Lagos Office of NIDCOM.
Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose, SAN, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships) and Chairman of the Board, assured attendees that the board is committed to making the Centre a global leader in diaspora studies.
“We will justify the confidence reposed in us and ensure the Centre soon gains international acclaim,” she stated.
