“Empowering Excellence: Ajayi Crowther University Announces Historic Dual Deputy Vice-Chancellor Appointments – A New Era of Academic and Administrative Brilliance”
In a landmark decision that heralds renewed momentum and strategic depth, the Governing Council of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, convened an emergency session on Monday, March 16, 2026, and unanimously ratified the appointment of two eminent scholars to the exalted offices of Deputy Vice-Chancellor. This follows a transparent, peer-driven electoral process conducted by the University Senate on February 23, 2026, affirming the institution’s steadfast commitment to meritocracy, due process, and faith-inspired governance.
Professor Afolake Atinuke Olanbiwoninu, a trailblazing expert in Food/Industrial Microbiology from the Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, assumes the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)—marking her as the first female to hold this prestigious position at ACU. Complementing her appointment is Professor Adeyemi Olukayode Binuyo, a pioneering figure in Mathematical Modelling and Computational Mathematics from the Department of Mathematics, who becomes Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and the institution’s inaugural Mathematics lecturer elevated to this level.
These appointments embody a harmonious fusion of scientific innovation and analytical precision, poised to elevate ACU’s dual mandate of scholarly distinction and operational excellence under the visionary leadership of the Vice-Chancellor.
A Testament to Transparent Leadership Succession
The journey to these elevations exemplifies institutional integrity: The Senate—ACU’s supreme academic parliament—conducted a rigorous election rooted in proven records of research impact, leadership stewardship, and unwavering dedication to the university’s Anglican ethos. The Governing Council, as the apex governing authority, meticulously reviewed and endorsed the outcomes, ensuring alignment with statutory provisions enshrined in the University Law (2003).
Illuminating Profiles of the New Deputy Vice-Chancellors
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Professor Afolake Atinuke Olanbiwoninu – DVC (Academic) A globally cited authority in food microbiology, bio-enrichment, and microbial ecology, she brings unparalleled expertise to champion:
- Rigorous program accreditation and unwavering compliance with National Universities Commission (NUC) standards.
- A surge in high-impact, interdisciplinary research collaborations.
- Seamless student academic progression, from examinations to timely graduations.
Her ascension not only enriches academic governance but also inspires a new generation of female scholars across Nigeria’s faith-based institutions.
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Professor Adeyemi Olukayode Binuyo – DVC (Administration) Renowned for his mastery in numerical simulation, optimization, and structured problem-solving, he will steer:
- Enhanced human resource management, staff welfare, and campus infrastructure modernization.
- Precise execution of council policies in harmony with the university’s strategic vision.
- Proactive crisis navigation and the maintenance of a serene, secure learning environment.
Anchored in Statute: Tenure and Mandate
As codified in the University Law (Page 37, Section 4, Subsection 2), these appointments commence with an initial two-year term, renewable for another two years subject to exemplary performance. Per Page 38, Section 4, Subsection 3, the Deputy Vice-Chancellors serve as indispensable pillars beside the Vice-Chancellor—delivering specialized leadership to ensure seamless daily operations and long-term institutional resilience.
Strategic Horizon: Accelerating ACU’s Transformation Agenda
By delineating clear domains of Academic and Administrative leadership, ACU decentralizes executive responsibilities, fostering greater agility, innovation, and efficiency. This bold restructuring positions the university to:
- Deepen research competitiveness on national and global stages.
- Strengthen digital transformation and interdisciplinary synergies.
- Uphold its cherished motto: “Education for Service and Self-Reliance.”
The University Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun, has conveyed profound optimism that the complementary strengths of Professors Olanbiwoninu and Binuyo will cultivate a culture of merit, ethical stewardship, and forward momentum—reassuring stakeholders, parents, alumni, and regulatory bodies of ACU’s enduring stability and progressive governance.
As these distinguished leaders step into their roles, the entire ACU family—students, faculty, staff, and the wider Anglican community—stands united in anticipation of a vibrant chapter ahead. Guided by divine wisdom and collective resolve, Ajayi Crowther University is poised to scale new heights of service, scholarship, and societal impact. A new dawn has broken—brighter, bolder, and brimming with promise!
