Groundbreaking Era: Prof. Olatunji-Bello Emerges Redeemer’s University’s First Female Pro-Chancellor

Groundbreaking Era: Prof. Olatunji-Bello Emerges Redeemer’s University’s First Female Pro-Chancellor

​A Historic Milestone for Higher Education

​Redeemer’s University has entered a defining chapter in its institutional history with the appointment of Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, as its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council. The appointment marks a monumental first for the Ede-based institution, as she becomes the inaugural female academic leader to hold the prestigious office since the university’s establishment in 2005.

​The announcement, which takes effect for an initial three-year term, was formally communicated via a letter dated November 1, 2026, issued by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and Visitor to the University, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.

​Endorsements from Academia and Leadership

​Pastor Adeboye expressed deep confidence in Professor Olatunji-Bello’s exceptional administrative acumen, anticipating that her stewardship will steer the institution toward realizing its expansive vision for global academic distinction.

​The immediate past Pro-Chancellor, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, FAS—who recently transitioned to chair the National Universities Commission (NUC) Board—hauded the choice, emphasizing the profound social capital and goodwill she brings to the council.

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​Echoing these sentiments, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shadrach Olufemi Akindele, noted that her emergence heralds a vibrant era of heightened financial sustainability, robust infrastructural development, and elevated global competitiveness.

​A Storied Legacy of Academic Excellence

​Born in Lagos on April 23, 1964, Professor Olatunji-Bello’s academic journey spans decades of peerless dedication to teaching, scientific research, and university governance.

• ​Foundational Training: She earned her BSc in Physiology from the University of Ibadan (1985) and an MSc from the University of Lagos (1987). Following a research fellowship at the University of Texas Health Science Centre, she bagged her PhD in Physiology from UNILAG in 1998.
• ​Trailblazing Leadership: A Professor of Physiology since 2007, she made institutional history at Lagos State University (LASU), serving across critical capacities including Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Acting Vice-Chancellor, and ultimately as the 9th substantive Vice-Chancellor from 2021 to 2026.
• ​Honours & Fellowships: A member of the National Institute (mni) following her studies at NIPSS Kuru, she holds numerous professional fellowships and was decorated with the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award by the Federal Government.

​As she assumes leadership over Redeemer’s University’s Governing Council, the academic community anticipates a transformative era defined by innovation, institutional strength, and uncompromising standards of excellence.