Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo

08/05/2026

ACU, CRIN Seal Landmark MoU to Revolutionise Tree Crop Research, Agri-Business Development

A new chapter in agricultural research and academic collaboration opened on Friday, May 8, 2026, as Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, and the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Ibadan, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering extensive research, staff and student exchange, and ventures that will boost internally generated revenue for the university.

The MoU, which will remain in force for five years subject to yearly renewal, was signed at CRIN's headquarters in Ibadan by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, and the Acting Executive Director of CRIN, Dr. Abiodun Rasheed Adedeji.

Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Oduwole described the partnership as a strategic move to place ACU on the map of agricultural innovation. She noted that the collaboration would span eight core areas designed to create a seamless bridge between academia and Nigeria's premier tree crop research institute.

Under the terms of the MoU, both institutions will collaborate extensively on research, with special focus on tree crops including cocoa, kola, coffee, cashew, and tea, crops for which CRIN holds a federal research mandate. The partnership also provides for participation in international seminars, academic programmes, and meetings, thereby exposing ACU faculty and students to global best practices.

One of the most notable provisions of the agreement allows ACU to participate in annual promotion activities for CRIN research officers, especially for advancement to professorial rank. CRIN scientists would also be eligible for sabbatical leave at ACU and may serve as visiting research fellows.

The MoU makes provision for the exchange of faculty members between both institutions, particularly in the external examination of undergraduate and postgraduate students. Joint supervision of postgraduate research is also included, ensuring that students benefit from the expertise of both ACU academics and CRIN's seasoned researchers.

Both parties agreed to exchange academic materials and other information that would enhance teaching, learning, and research. This provision is expected to enrich the university's library resources and give students access to cutting-edge research emanating from CRIN's various substations across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.

In a significant boost to the university's agricultural footprint, CRIN has agreed to support the operational activities of the Ajayi Crowther Research Centre, which will be developed as a Centre of Excellence for tree crop trials on the ACU campus. This, according to the MoU, will involve technical support, provision of planting materials, and advisory services.

ACU students are not left out of the agreement, as they stand to benefit from structured industrial work experience and excursions at CRIN. The collaboration formalises the placement of students for the Students' Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) and other internship programmes, giving them hands-on exposure to tree crop breeding, grafting, budding, and post-harvest management.

Another forward-looking aspect of the MoU is the agreement to collaborate on developing agri-business ideas, product development, and ventures that will improve internally generated revenue for ACU. This includes exploring value addition to tree crops, commercialisation of research outputs, and possible joint ventures between the university and the institute.

The MoU contains robust provisions on intellectual property (IP) and technical property (TP) rights. It stipulates that all IP and TP resulting from the collaboration, including patents, research products, computer programmes, and trade secrets shall be jointly owned and managed by ACU and CRIN. Participating individuals using proprietary materials from either institution must adhere to material transfer agreements or licenses.

After the signing ceremony, the ACU delegation was taken on a tour of CRIN's cocoa nursery, where they were shown the processes of cocoa grafting and budding. The practical demonstration underscored the hands-on learning opportunities that ACU students can expect under the partnership.

The ACU team at the event included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Afolake Olanbiwonninu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo; the Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun; Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Moses Adebayo; Head of Department, Crop and Animal Science, Dr. Tolulope Faniyi; University Legal Officer, Mrs. Oluwaseun Ayelotan; Head of Administration, Vice-Chancellor's Office, Mr. Abayomi Oduntan; Public Relations Officer, Mr. Femi Atoyebi; and Principal Assistant Registrar/Public Relations Office, Mr. Emeka Oluka.

Others included the CRIN staff, represented by its management team, including administrative and technical staff who underscored the institute's readiness to work with ACU.

Receiving the ACU team earlier, Dr. Adedeji described Prof. Oduwole as a mother, leader, and visionary. He expressed optimism that the MoU would further strengthen both parties, noting that CRIN's six substations across Nigeria offer a vast network for research and student exposure.

Prof. Oduwole, in her remarks, reaffirmed ACU's commitment to the partnership, stating that the university would spare no effort in ensuring that the collaboration yields tangible results for students, faculty, and the wider community.

08/05/2026

ACU Won’t Compromise Standard, Prof. Oduwole Re-emphasises at CGTS Matriculation

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining high academic standards across its programmes and in all affiliated institutions.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole made the declaration during her remarks at the matriculation ceremony for newly admitted postgraduate students of the Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary (CGTS) in Abeokuta on Thursday, 7th May, 2026.

Prof. Oduwole in her address assured the matriculants and distinguished guests of the university’s full support to CGTS, noting that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exists between ACU and CGTS for the training of students pursuing Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Bachelor of Arts (B.A), Master of Arts (M.A.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Religious Studies.

Addressing the new students directly, she charged them saying: “Dear matriculants, you’re raised by the church for the end time. You need to prepare yourself for ‘the arguments for and arguments against’, because gone are the days when your congregations were not learned.”

The Vice-Chancellor also thanked the Anglican Primate, The Most Revd. Henry Ndukuba, for his leadership and appealed to the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) to provide financial support to help CGTS grow further.

Delivering his congratulatory address, the Primate, who also serves as Chancellor and Visitor, represented by the Bishop of Egba Diocese, Rt. Revd. Dr. Emmanuel Adekunle, charged the matriculants to be found worthy in learning and character at the end of their study.

“You will be trained in academics, moral and discipline. Serve the church and Nigeria and do not see this as a personal investment,” he said, calling for moral and financial support for the students.

Earlier, the Rector of CGTS, Ven. Prof. Rotimi Omotoye, welcomed guests and gave a brief history of the institution, which dates back to 2009 as a postgraduate institution for advanced theological studies. Aligning with Prof. Oduwole, he pledged to maintain ACU’s standards in Religious Studies at the seminary.

The ceremony’s highpoint was the matriculation lecture titled “Nation Building and Theological Thought: The Burden, the Responsibilities and the Existence Precarity,” delivered by Dr. David Olali, Assistant Director of the African Studies Institute at the University of Georgia, Athens, USA. This was followed by the matriculation oath-taking and signing of forms.

Dignitaries at the event included Rt. Revd. Samuel Ogundeji (Bishop of Egba West Diocese), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo (Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, ACU), Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun (Registrar, ACU), Ven. Dr. Ishaya Anthony (Registrar, CGTS), Prof. Paul Akanbi (Dean, Postgraduate School, ACU), Prof. Stephen Solanke (Dean, Faculty of Humanities, ACU), and Dr. Ayo Ogidiolu (Head, Department of Religious Studies), among other scholars and dignitaries.

05/05/2026

*ANUPA Converges on ACU for 2026 National Workshop, Honours VC, Former Registrar*

05/05/2026

ANUPA Converges on ACU for 2026 National Workshop, Honours VC, Former Registrar

Members of the Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) have gathered at Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, for the 2026 ANUPA National Training Workshop for Senior University Professional Administrators.

The workshop, themed “Advancing University Resilience Through Effective Strategic Governance, Administrative Excellence and Institutional Sustainability,” has drawn senior university administrators from across higher institutions in the South-West region for intensive capacity building and professional development.

Beyond the training sessions, the Local Organising Committee and the National Executive Council of ANUPA used the event to honour the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, and the second substantive Registrar of the university, Mrs. Adenike Fatogun. Both were recognised for their respective roles in advancing the institution and shaping administrators for exemplary performance.

Addressing participants during the Workshop, Prof. Oduwole urged university administrators to demonstrate creativity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.

She emphasised the need for administrators within the Nigerian university system to embrace innovation and accountability, noting that such values are essential for institutional stability and improved service delivery.

Prof. Oduwole encouraged participants to develop practical frameworks that would guide administrative operations in their respective institutions, urging them to move beyond routine practices by adopting new ideas and more effective problem-solving approaches.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the National President of ANUPA, Dr. Victor Bem, described the association as a cornerstone of institutional stability within the Nigerian university system. He noted that ANUPA plays a pivotal role in ensuring effective administration across the country’s universities.

Dr. Bem commended the ACU community for the warm reception accorded to participants and for hosting the training workshop. He urged participants to pay close attention during the sessions to acquire relevant skills that would benefit their institutions.

In his remarks, the University Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun, charged participants to remain attentive throughout the workshop and to apply the knowledge gained for institutional development.

Speaking on behalf of the ANUPA Ajayi Crowther University Chapter, the branch Chairperson, Mrs. Folashade Daniel, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for her leadership and commitment to the growth of the institution. She urged university administrators to remain dedicated, efficient, and hardworking in the performance of their duties.

The hallmark of the workshop was the delivery of lectures by various resource persons who have carved a niche for themselves as administrators.

05/05/2026

ACU Enactus Team Ranks Among Top 6 with Gaz-Cibus Project

Enactus Nigeria has officially congratulated the Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, and her management team following the impressive emergence of the university’s Enactus team among the top six Enactus projects in the country with their innovative initiative, Gaz-Cibus.

In a formal congratulatory letter issued on behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of Enactus Nigeria, the organisation lauded the ACU Enactus team for their outstanding performance at the recent national competition. The letter described the achievement as a reflection of innovation, unwavering commitment, and strong teamwork.

As part of the recognition, the Ajayi Crowther University Enactus team will receive the first tranche of seed funding, amounting to ₦150,000 each. The funds are designated to support the initial implementation stage of the Gaz-Cibus project. According to Enactus Nigeria, the top six selected projects will enter a structured implementation phase, closely supervised by the Enactus Nigeria Country Office. The projects, according to the letter, will be monitored through continuous supervision and midpoint evaluations to assess progress, challenges, and overall adaptability.

The organisation further stated that based on verified results, learning agility, and updated impact metrics, the pool of top six projects will eventually be narrowed down to four finalist teams for the next stage of the competition.

Reaffirming its commitment to student-led innovation and entrepreneurship across Nigerian universities, Enactus Nigeria noted that projects like Gaz-Cibus demonstrate the immense potential of young people to craft practical solutions to pressing societal challenges.

It will be recalled that on October 31, 2025, Prof. Oduwole was presented with a Certificate of Service in recognition of her steadfast support for Enactus Nigeria. At the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor expressed ACU’s readiness to partner further with the organisation in areas that enhance students’ personal and professional development, particularly in entrepreneurship, leadership training, and community-based projects.

Enactus is an international non-profit organisation focused on youth development, harnessing the power of entrepreneurial action to transform lives and shape a more sustainable world.

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

ANUPA Pays Courtesy Visit to VC, Lauds Prof. Oduwole's Leadership

In preparation for its 2026 National Training Workshop for Senior University Professional Administrators, the leadership of the Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole.

The ANUPA delegation, led by its National President, Dr. Victor Bem, was warmly received by Prof. Oduwole, who lauded the association for choosing ACU as the destination for the 2026 Training Workshop.

Prof. Oduwole commended the Ajayi Crowther University Chapter of ANUPA for its consistent dedication and invaluable contributions to the University's growth. She noted that the institution's professional administrators have remained dependable and fully committed to the University's objectives, adding that their efforts have significantly supported the smooth running of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor also singled out the Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun, for praise, acknowledging him as a worthy ambassador of both the University and the association.

In a charge to members of ANUPA within the University, Prof. Oduwole encouraged them to pursue additional academic and professional qualifications, stating that this would enhance their administrative proficiency and help improve standards across the university system.

Earlier in his speech, Dr. Bem expressed profound gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the University management for hosting the workshop and for the warm reception accorded to the delegation. He described the relationship between ANUPA and Ajayi Crowther University as cordial and mutually beneficial.

Dr. Bem highlighted ANUPA's role in advancing university administration across Nigeria and reaffirmed the association's unwavering commitment to professional excellence.

In a major revelation, the National President disclosed ongoing efforts toward securing chartered status for the association to further strengthen administrative practice and contribute to the overall development of higher education institutions in the country.

The courtesy visit forms part of activities leading up to the 2026 ANUPA National Training Workshop for Senior University Professional Administrators, which promises to focus on capacity building and the future of university administration in Nigeria.

Present at the reception were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Afolake Olanbiwonninu; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo; the Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun; the Bursar, Dr. Ayodele Olusanwo; the University Librarian, Dr. Bose Ajiboye; and the ANUPA Chairperson, ACU Branch, Mrs. Folashade Daniel.

05/05/2026

VC Visits Surveying Camp, Commends ACU Students' Practical Training

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, on Monday, May 4, 2026, visited the Surveying Camp in the Kosobo area of Oyo, where students of Surveying and Geo-Informatics from Ajayi Crowther University and the Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, are participating in practical field exercises.

The Vice-Chancellor was accompanied by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Folake Olanbiwonninu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo; University Librarian, Dr. Bosede Ajiboye; and Dean of Students, Dr. Cornelius Ojo.

The team was received by the Director of the Students' Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at the Federal School of Surveying, Mrs. Lateefat Oyelakin; Chief Instructor in the Department of Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Mr. Adebowale Bashir; and Mrs. Omotola Olayiwola, Technologist in the Department of Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Ajayi Crowther University.

Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Oyelakin explained that students at the camp had been trained on the use of modern surveying equipment, including total stations, satellite-based positioning systems, theodolites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and hydrographic survey tools.

She added that following the training, students would undertake practical examination exercises scheduled for Monday, May 4th and Tuesday, May 5th. She also noted that the programme could be extended to staff members to enhance their exposure to contemporary tools and techniques in surveying and geo-informatics.

In her response, Prof. Oduwole expressed satisfaction with the level of hands-on training being provided to the students, stating the university's commitment to practical learning.

"We are very pleased with this development and take it seriously. That is why the university management is here today, to see our students in action. At Ajayi Crowther University, we go beyond classroom teaching to ensure our students gain real field experience," she said.

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the 11 students from ACU taking part in the exercise would be required to demonstrate their newly acquired skills upon their return to the university.

She also revealed plans for the students to apply their training by conducting a survey of the university's Offa-Meta campus land.

"We have a large expanse of land at our Offa-Meta campus, and the students will carry out its survey based on what they have learned during this programme. We believe in their excellence, and while they may consult their instructors, we are confident in their ability to deliver," she added.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed confidence in the students' ability to pass the two-day practical examination with flying colours.

05/05/2026

2026 ANUPA NATIONAL TRAINING

30/04/2026

Council of Legal Education Accreditation Team Visits ACU, Promises Objectivity during Exercise

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, played host to a delegation from The Council of Legal Education on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, for an accreditation visit to the institution’s Faculty of Law.

Leading the team, the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Dr. Olugbemisola Odusote, stated that the exercise was aimed at assessing available facilities, ensuring they are properly maintained and managed, and verifying that students are receiving quality instruction with adequate learning resources.

Dr. Odusote emphasised that periodic accreditation is necessary to maintain prescribed standards and safeguard students from being disadvantaged.

She particularly commended the performance of ACU law graduates at the Nigerian Law School in previous years, saying their track record gave her confidence in the quality of the faculty’s staff.

The Director-General assured that the team would go round, ask questions, conduct an objective assessment, and return feedback to The University Management.

Earlier during the welcome ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, ACU, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, gave a brief history of the faculty’s evolution, revealing that its magnificent building was donated by Chief Modupe and Folorunso Alakija.

“The Faculty of Law was one of the foundational facilities in The University,” Prof. Oduwole said, adding that the institution was deliberate about building on that foundation.

She seized the opportunity to request a review of the admission quota allocated to the faculty, praying that the exercise would be fruitful so that stakeholders would hear good news at the end of the process. She also expressed delight at having The Council Members around, describing it as a great opportunity for The University.

At the conclusion of the exercise, Dr. Odusote declared that the team would return to The Council of Legal Education with a report of their observations. She commended The University Management and faculty leadership, making special reference to the beautiful structure and well-laid-out landscape around the faculty and The University at large.

She also offered viable advice on areas needing improvement to further strengthen the faculty.

Responding, Prof. Oduwole appreciated the team for their thorough job and feedback, promising that The University would heed the advice and make necessary adjustments.

“ACU awaits your response with the hope of getting its quota increased by The Council,” she said.

Present at the reception were The University’s Principal Officers, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Olanrewaju Onadeko SAN, and other key members of staff.

Other members of the visiting team included Ms. Aderonke Osho (Secretary to The Council), Mr. Gambo Mohammed Gujba (Council Member), Dr. Chinonso Mmuozoba (DDG, Port Harcourt campus), Dr. Silas Akinwunmi (Law Librarian), and Mr. Dalmot Mamiso (Secretary of the Panel).

29/04/2026

NUC Grants ACU Full Accreditation for Multiple Courses, Approves New Media Programmes

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has released the results of its October/November 2025 accreditation exercise, granting full accreditation status to several postgraduate and undergraduate programmes at Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo State.

The Commission has also approved the establishment of new undergraduate programmes in full-time mode, effective from the 2025/2026 academic session.

In a letter conveying the details of the accreditation and addressed to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, the NUC confirmed that three master's degree programmes in the Faculty of Administration and Management Sciences- M.Sc. Accounting, M.Sc. Finance, and M.Sc. Business Administration - received full accreditation from the Commission.

Additionally, the NUC granted full accreditation status to four programmes in the Faculty of Education.. They are Education Computer Science, Education Economics, Education English Language, and Guidance and Counselling. In the Allied Health Sciences, Radiography and Radiation Science programme was also fully accredited.

The Commission, acting under Section 10(1) of the Education (National Minimum Standard and Establishment of Institutions) Act CAP E3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, stated that the results reflect compliance with minimum academic standards.

In a separate correspondence dated February 10, 2026, and following a resource assessment visit by a panel of experts, the NUC conveyed the Executive Secretary's approval for the establishment of three new full-time undergraduate programmes at the university's main campus.

The newly approved programmes include B.Sc. Broadcasting, B.Sc. Journalism and Media Studies, and B.Sc. Information and Media Studies.

These programmes are expected to commence in the 2025/2026 academic session, further expanding the university's offerings in media and communication studies.

The Vice-Chancellor has since described the development as a "resounding vote of confidence" in the university's academic and infrastructural standards.