Prof Wande Abimbola to Lead Discourse on Reviving Nigerian Universities’ Glory on Boiling Point Arena

The September edition of the acclaimed monthly interview discourse, Boiling Point Arena, is set to tackle the long-standing challenges plaguing Nigerian universities, with special focus on reversing systemic decay and lost opportunities within the country’s higher education system.

Scheduled for Sunday, September 14, 2025, the 35th episode of this globally followed program will feature the internationally respected scholar and former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly University of Ife), Professor Wande Abimbola. At over 92 years of age, Prof Abimbola, who currently teaches at various American universities, brings unparalleled experience both from his academic leadership in Nigeria and broad international exposure.

The discourse will center on the theme: “Nigerian Universities: Tower of Crises, Citadel of Missed Opportunities. Can the Lost Glory be Reclaimed?” As an iconic academic leader who navigated Obafemi Awolowo University through pivotal moments, including its renaming in honor of the late sage Obafemi Awolowo in 1987, Prof Abimbola is expected to offer deep insights and a visionary roadmap to reinvigorate Nigeria’s universities.

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The program will be chaired by the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof Saka Matemilola, a foremost traditional ruler who will serve as Keynote Speaker. This prestigious online conversation will be streamed live on Zoom at 8 PM and simultaneously broadcast on six radio stations across Lagos, Ogun, and Delta states, as well as on NSTV via GoTV Channel 316.

Boiling Point Arena, curated by media and public relations professional Dr Ayo Arowojolu, boasts a substantial global online following and a wide terrestrial radio listenership. The platform engages a distinguished panel comprising over 300 professors, media experts, technocrats, judiciary members, traditional rulers, and security officials committed to national development.

With decades of leadership experience, ranging from founding the Department of African Languages at Obafemi Awolowo University to serving in influential political and cultural roles, Prof Abimbola’s participation promises a rich, historically informed perspective that bridges Nigeria’s educational heritage with future aspirations.

Stakeholders across academia and policy circles eagerly anticipate this discourse, hoping it will spark actionable strategies to restore excellence to Nigeria’s universities—reclaiming a legacy of academic distinction amid a sea of challenges.