The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has announced the appointment of Professor Gbenga Ibileye as its 4th Vice-Chancellor, with effect from February 15, 2026.
The appointment was confirmed on Tuesday by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, following approval by the University’s 4th Governing Council, chaired by Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdallah. According to the statement, the selection process was transparent, merit-driven, and highly competitive, in line with extant regulations governing federal universities.
Professor Ibileye emerged top after an exhaustive interview exercise involving 11 distinguished professors who were shortlisted through a series of rigorous screenings, interactions, and evaluations. He scored a total of 91.9 points, placing first among the candidates.
He will succeed the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, whose tenure has been widely acknowledged as one of the most impactful in the University’s history. Under Akinwumi’s leadership, the institution recorded significant milestones in academic culture consolidation, infrastructural development, expansion of academic programmes, staff and student welfare, institutional stability, and increased national relevance.
The Governing Council commended all participants in the selection process for their professionalism and commitment, while reassuring the University community of its dedication to transparency, due process, and excellence in governance.
As the University prepares for a new phase of leadership, the Council expressed confidence that Professor Ibileye will consolidate existing achievements and steer the institution toward greater academic excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness.
Members of the University community have congratulated the Visitor, Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Governing Council members, management, staff, and students for what has been described as a credible and exemplary appointment exercise.
FUL Settles for Professor Gbenga Ibileye as 4th Vice-Chancellor
