Popoola Takes Helm at AFUED: Sets Bold Vision with 7-Point Agenda

Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola has officially taken office as the first substantive Vice-Chancellor of the Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, marking a historic leap in the institution’s transition from college to university status. The inauguration ceremony, held on August 14, 2025, at the Babatunde Ipaye Lecture Theatre, drew eminent guests and dignitaries from across Nigeria.

Popoola, a seasoned Professor of Guidance and Counselling with more than 30 years of academic and administrative experience, succeeds Prof. Samuel Akintunde, who served in acting capacity during the university’s formative journey. In his address, Prof. Popoola described his appointment as “a divine arrangement by God,” pledging an era of excellence, innovation, and national development.

Visionary Plans Unveiled

The newly installed VC announced that, in the upcoming weeks, his administration will launch comprehensive plans encompassing:

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• Structural reforms
• Staff development
• Expansion of academic programmes
• Infrastructure renewal

He outlined seven key strategic priorities:

1. Curriculum innovation
2. Research and innovation in teacher education
3. Staff development and capacity building
4. Staff and student welfare
5. Infrastructure, ICT, and learning environment
6. Funding and income generation
7. Alumni relations

Popoola reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, promising prompt payment of salaries and allowances, along with a resolve to clear outstanding financial obligations promptly. He emphasized ongoing dialogue with staff unions to foster mutual understanding and swift resolution of welfare concerns.

Leadership and Support

At the event, Prof. Popoola expressed heartfelt appreciation to the University Governing Council for their transparent and fair selection process. He also acknowledged the Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, CFR, and the alumni for their dedication to the university’s elevation.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Pro-chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Hon. (Mrs.) Ganiyat Adeola Yusuf; Mrs. J.N Akpa, Federal Ministry of Education representative; Prof. Bashir Danlami Sarkindaji; Chief (Hon) Dr. Prince N. John; key senate and congregation members; Prof. Popoola’s wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Popoola; and the immediate past Acting VC, Prof. Samuel Akintunde.

Promise for a Bright Future

Prof. Popoola concluded with a call for collective support from staff, students, and stakeholders. He expressed optimism that, through unity and commitment, AFUED will become a national beacon for training professional teachers, educational leaders, and change-makers.

The university now embarks on a new era, with Prof. Popoola’s visionary leadership poised to transform AFUED into a national centre of excellence.