11/04/2026
EKSU MAIDEN VICE-CHANCELLOR’S AWARD OF EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH, PUBLICATIONS, AND GRANTS: STAKEHOLDERS CELEBRATE KEY DRIVERS OF SUCCESS
Ekiti State University (EKSU) has recorded a historic milestone with the successful hosting of its maiden Vice-Chancellor’s Award of Excellence in Research, Publications, and Grants; an initiative widely applauded by stakeholders as a bold step toward institutional transformation and global academic competitiveness.
The landmark event not only celebrated outstanding scholarly achievements but also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant research culture. In a charge to the awardees, stakeholders emphasized that the recognition goes beyond honour; it confers a responsibility to inspire the next generation of scholars. Special commendation was reserved for Prof Joseph Olusasen Fadare, a professor of internal Medicine/pharmacology, who emerged as Best Researcher of the Year, in recognition of his exceptional academic contributions.
Particularly noteworthy is the remarkable performance of the EKSU College of Medicine, which accounted for 30% of the University’s Top 2% Researchers and also produced the overall Best Researcher. This achievement underscores the College’s leadership in driving high-impact research and enhancing the University’s global visibility.
In advancing EKSU’s ranking trajectory, the Office of Research, Development, and Innovation (ORDI), in collaboration with the Senate Committee on University Ranking, has initiated a strategic blueprint anchored on Research, Publications, and Grants Mentorship Hubs across all faculties, including the Postgraduate College. Complementary to this are International Academic Collaboration Hubs and other forward-looking initiatives designed to strengthen research output and visibility within the global Scopus ecosystem, widely regarded as a key driver of university rankings.
The Director of ORDI, Prof. Taiwo Owoeye, described the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, as a visionary leader whose innovative and inclusive approach has brought deserving scholars to the forefront, reinforcing EKSU’s intellectual identity on the global stage.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on University Ranking, Prof. Olofinbiyi Babatunde, commended the Chancellor, Dr Tunji Olowolafe, as a true Philanthropy Vanguard, whose exceptional and transformative support for research, conferences, and academic development continues to propel excellence and global engagement at EKSU, an unprecedented legacy in the University’s history!
The Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, was also commended for his progressive commitment to staff welfare and his transformative investments in the growth, development, and innovation of the University.
The ceremony stands as a defining moment in EKSU’s pursuit of excellence, setting a sustainable pathway for research-driven development and global recognition.
Office of Research, Development and Innovation (ORDI), EKSU
Senate Committee on University Ranking, EKSU