By Isiaka Babatunde
Today, April 1, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the history of Kwara State University. It was on this day in 2020 that Late Professor Muhammed Mustapha Akanbi was appointed as the second substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution to serve a five-year term, after Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, the first Substantive Vice Chancellor. Little did we know that his tenure would be cut short by his untimely demise on November 20, 2022.
As I reflect on my time with Professor Akanbi, I am reminded of his exceptional leadership qualities. He was a disciplinarian, a fearless man, and a rare administrator who led by example. His commitment to excellence was inspiring, and his legacy continues to shape the institution today.
Professor Akanbi’s impact on Kwara State University cannot be overstated. During his tenure, he implemented various reforms aimed at improving academic standards, infrastructure, and student welfare. His vision for the institution was clear, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that it became a reality.
One of Professor Akanbi’s greatest strengths was his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He was a philanthropist, a community leader, and an advocate for justice. His door was always open to students, staff, and members of the community who sought his counsel or assistance.
As a Personal Assistant to Professor Akanbi, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his dedication to duty. He was a man of impeccable integrity, who led by example and inspired others to do the same. Alhamdulillah, his passing did not leave a void in the institution, he was replaced by the man who shares the same philosophy like him. There is no doubt about the fact that the current Vice Chancellor Professor Shaykh Luqman Jimoh is a perfect replacement.
Despite his many accomplishments, Professor Akanbi remained humble and grounded. He was a God-fearing man who recognised the importance of faith in his personal and professional life. His spirituality was an inspiration to many, and it continues to guide us till today.
As we mark the fifth anniversary of Professor Akanbi’s appointment as Vice Chancellor, we remember his many contributions to Kwara State University. We honour his legacy by continuing to work towards the realization of his vision for the institution.
Professor Akanbi’s commitment to academic excellence was worthwhile. He believed in the importance of providing students with a world-class education that would equip them for success in their chosen careers. His efforts in this regard have borne fruit, and the institution continues to produce graduates who are making a positive impact in their communities.
In addition to his academic achievements, Professor Akanbi was also a respected legal luminary. He was a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and his expertise in the field of law was sought by many. His contributions to the development of the legal profession in Nigeria are immeasurable.
As a community leader, Professor Akanbi was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was a champion of social justice, and he worked tirelessly to promote the rights of marginalized communities. His selflessness and generosity inspired many, and his legacy continues to inspire us. Establishment of MMGIVIT Charity Initiative is a good example of his enduring legacies.
Professor Akanbi’s passing has left a void in our lives that can never be filled. However, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched during his time on earth.
As we remember Professor Akanbi today, we are reminded of his many qualities that made him an exceptional leader. He was a man of vision, integrity, and compassion.
In the words of Professor Akanbi, “Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” His life influenced many.
Be that as it may, the sudden demise of Professor Akanbi in November 2022 left a void in the leadership of Kwara State University. However, the appointment of Professor Shaykh Luqman Jimoh as the Acting Vice Chancellor at the time, and subsequently as the third substantive Vice Chancellor on June 10th, 2024, has proven to be a masterstroke. Professor Jimoh has not only consolidated on the legacy left behind by his predecessor but has also taken the university to greater heights.
Professor Jimoh’s leadership style has been hailed by staff and students alike. His humility, knowledge, and easy-going nature have made him a beloved figure on campus. His generosity, intelligence, and considerate approach to administration have also earned him widespread respect. Under his leadership, the university has continued to flourish, with significant improvements in academic programmes, infrastructure, and staff welfare.
One of Professor Jimoh’s greatest strengths is his commitment to staff welfare. He has demonstrated a genuine interest in the well-being of employees, and his efforts to improve their working conditions have not gone unnoticed. His seamless transition into the role of Vice Chancellor has also been impressive, as he has carefully followed in the footsteps of his predecessor while also introducing innovative ideas to move the university forward.
As Kwara State University continues to grow and thrive under Professor Jimoh’s leadership, it is clear that he is a worthy successor to Professor Akanbi’s legacy. His dedication, vision, and leadership skills have made him a perfect fit for the role, and the university community is indeed fortunate to have him at the helm.
Professor Jimoh’s leadership style has been a breath of fresh air at Kwara State University. One of his notable qualities is his decision to retain all the staff in the Vice-Chancellor’s office after the demise of his predecessor, Professor Akanbi. This move, which included keeping his personal assistant (yours sincerely), is a rare display of humility and compassion in a position of power.
Professor Jimoh’s choice to maintain continuity in the office, rather than selecting an entirely new team, speaks volumes about his character. It showcases his ability to put the needs of others before his own and his willingness to work with those who were already part of the team. This decision has not only earned him our appreciation but has also reinforced his reputation as a kind and thoughtful leader.
May Allah admit the late Vice Chancellor into Janatul Firdaus, grant the current Vice Chancellor a long life filled with sound health and wisdom, and guide him towards success in all his personal and official endeavours, Aameen.
