Famous University of Ilorin Alumni: Prominent figures who studied here
Do you know any prominent University of Ilorin alumni? Below is a list of some of the most famous graduates of the institution. The university is known for academic excellence and for producing successful professionals in many fields. Some notable alumni include the Nollywood actor Nkem Owoh.
Source: Facebook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Top 10 most famous University of Ilorin Alumni
- 18. Professor Pius Adesanmi
- 17. Ifedayo Adetifa
- 16. Abdulfatah Ahmed
- 15. Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu
- 14. Ado J. G. Muhammad
- 13. Adenike Oladiji
- 12. Jekwu Anyaegbuna
- 11. Temi Olajide
- 10. Nkem Owoh
- 9. Is-haq Oloyede
- 8. Johnson Bamidele Olawumi
- 7. Josephine Obiajulu Odumakin
- 6. Aize Obayan
- 5. Charles Ayo
- 4. Abdul Rasheed Na’Allah
- 3. Sarah Alade
- 2. Ezekiel Adebiyi
- 1. Femi Adebayo
- What does the University of Ilorin Alumni Association do?
- What is the University of Ilorin graduate's journey?
- What are the courses at the University of Ilorin?
- Which celebrity graduated from Unilorin?
- Which university has the best alumni?
- Who is the best graduating student in UNILORIN?
- Is the University of Ilorin accredited?
- Is the University of Ilorin a good school?
- How much is the University of Ilorin?
- What is the slogan for the University of Ilorin?
- University of Ilorin address
Key takeaways
- One of the most notable University of Ilorin Alumni is Pius Adesanmi, a renowned professor and author.
- Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu, known as West Africa’s first female neurosurgeon, is also an alumnus of Unilorin.
- Famous Nollywood actor, Femi Adebayo, is another prominent University of Ilorin alumnus.
Top 10 most famous University of Ilorin Alumni
Here is a breakdown of famous University of Ilorin Alumni who have made not only their alma mater proud, but also the entire country.
Name | Famous as |
Femi Adebayo | Famous Nollywood actor |
Ezekiel Adebiyi | President of Nigerian Society of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology |
Pius Adesanmi | Professor and columnist |
Ifedayo Adetifa | Director General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control |
Abdulfatah Ahmed | Former Kwara State Governor |
Sarah Alade | Banker, former acting Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria. |
Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu | First woman neurosurgeon in West Africa |
Jekwu Anyaegbuna | Writer and poet |
Charles Ayo | Former vice-chancellor, Covenant University. |
Ado J. G. Muhammad | Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) |
The University of Ilorin alumni list contains names of people who have inspired many to join the institution with the hope of following their footsteps. Read more about them.
18. Professor Pius Adesanmi
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Pius Adebola Adesanmi
- Date of birth: 27 February 1972
- Date of death: 10 March 2019
- University of Ilorin Degree: Bachelor of Arts in French Language (1992)
- Profession: Academic, Author, Satirist
Pius Adebola Adesanmi, a University of Ilorin alumni, earned his Bachelor of Arts in French Language in 1992. He became a prominent academic, author, and satirist. Adesanmi’s intellectual influence extended globally, especially through his role as a professor at Carleton University.
17. Ifedayo Adetifa
Source: Facebook
- Full Name: Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa
- University of Ilorin Degree: MBBS, Medicine and Nigeria (1997)
- Profession: Paediatrician, Infectious Diseases Epidemiologist
- Legacy: NCDC DG, vaccine impact researcher, public health leader
Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa is a Nigerian paediatrician and infectious diseases epidemiologist. He is the CEO of FINDdx.org, based in Geneva, Switzerland.
As a University of Ilorin notable alumnus, Adetifa has had a distinguished career. He previously worked with the Medical Research Council Unit in The Gambia and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. He holds a PhD in Tuberculosis Epidemiology from the University of Amsterdam.
16. Abdulfatah Ahmed
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Abdulfatah Ahmed
- Date of birth: 29 December, 1963
- University of Ilorin Degree: BSc in Chemistry, MBA
- Profession: Banker, Politician
- Legacy: Champion of Kwara's growth and development
Abdulfatah Ahmed, born on December 29, 1963, in Share, Kwara State, is a Nigerian banker and politician. He earned a BSc in Chemistry and an MBA from the University of Ilorin. Ahmed served as Kwara State Governor from 2011 to 2019, implementing key initiatives like the Shared Prosperity agenda and educational reforms. Before his governorship, he was a finance commissioner and worked in banking.
15. Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu
- Date of birth: 1980
- University of Ilorin Degree: Medicine
- Profession: Neurosurgeon
- Legacy: First female neurosurgeon in West Africa
Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu, born in 1980 in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, is West Africa’s first female neurosurgeon. She is a proud female University of Ilorin alumna. She trained at the university and specialized in neurosurgery at Usmanu Danfodiyo University.
14. Ado J. G. Muhammad
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Dr. Ado Jimada Gana Muhammad (OON)
- Date of birth: January 18, 1967
- University of Ilorin Degree: Medicine
- Profession: Healthcare Leader, Public Health Expert
- Legacy: Transforming Nigeria's primary healthcare system.
Dr. Ado Jimada Gana Muhammad (OON) is a notable University of Ilorin alumni. He is a Nigerian healthcare leader and was the CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). He transformed primary healthcare and advanced polio eradication.
He received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). His work continues to inspire future generations. He is the current Global Programme Director at the D-8 Health and Social Protection Programme.
13. Adenike Oladiji
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Adenike Temidayo Oladiji
- University of Ilorin Degree: B.Sc., MSc., Ph.D. in Biochemistry
- Profession: Academic, Vice-Chancellor
- Legacy: Trailblazer for female leadership in academia
Adenike Temidayo Oladiji is a distinguished female University of Ilorin alumna. She is the first female Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure. She earned her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Ilorin.
She has over 29 years of academic experience. She held several leadership roles, including Head of Department and Dean. She is a prolific researcher with more than 100 publications and many awards.
12. Jekwu Anyaegbuna
Source: Facebook
- Full Name: Jekwu Anyaegbuna
- University of Ilorin Degree: Accounting
- Profession: Writer, Poet
- Legacy: Commonwealth Short Story Prize winner
Jekwu Anyaegbuna is a Nigerian writer and poet, and one of the University of Ilorin's notable alumni. He won the Commonwealth Short Story Prize in 2012 for his story Morrison Okoli (1955–2010). His works have appeared in major literary journals in the U.S. and the UK.
11. Temi Olajide
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Temiloluwa Olajide
- University of Ilorin Degree: BSc in Chemistry (2003)
- Profession: Child Sleep Consultant, Founder of Mummyclinicc
- Legacy: Revolutionizing parenting solutions in the digital age.
Temi Olajide is Nigeria's first Child Sleep Consultant and the founder of Mummyclinicc Global Services. She provides solutions to parenting challenges in the digital age. Temi holds a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Ilorin and various certifications in child care.
10. Nkem Owoh
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Nkem Owoh
- Date of birth: 7 February, 1955
- University of Ilorin Degree: Engineering
- Profession: Actor, Comedian, Singer
- Legacy: Nigerian film icon, celebrated for diverse roles.
Many people know him as Osuofia due to one of his most famous movies, Osuofia in London. Nkem has been one of the most popular comedy actors in Nollywood for years. Just as many other Nollywood stars, he studied a completely different course at the University of Ilorin, but became an actor.
9. Is-haq Oloyede
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Ishaq Olarewaju Oloyede
- Date of birth: 10 October 1954
- University of Ilorin Degree: B.A. in Arabic
- Profession: Professor of Islamic Studies, JAMB Registrar
- Legacy: Transforming Nigerian education and public service
The Chief Executive of JAMB received his Bachelor’s degree in Arabic studies at the University of Ilorin in 1978. His Doctorate in Islamic Studies is also from the University of Ilorin (1991). He is known for his transformational impact in public service.
8. Johnson Bamidele Olawumi
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Johnson Bamidele Olawumi
- Date of birth: 20 November 1964
- University of Ilorin Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
- Profession: Retired Major General, Former DG NYSC
- Legacy: Leadership in military and national service.
Johnson Bamidele Olawumi has had an illustrious career. He was the former Director General of the NYSC, a Major General of the Nigerian army and a Coordinator of the Nigerian military aviation. He has also been the Director of Cyber Security at the Defence Space Agency.
7. Josephine Obiajulu Odumakin
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Josephine Obiajulu Okei-Odumakin
- Date of birth: 4 July 1966
- University of Ilorin Degree: Doctorate in History and Policy of Education
- Profession: Women's rights activist, human rights advocate
- Legacy: Champion for women's rights and justice in Nigeria
This famous activist for human rights, the leader of many organizations for human rights and for the rights of women, received her B.Sc., M.Sc. and Ph.D at the University of Ilorin. She is one of the most prominent and notable alumni of this university.
6. Aize Obayan
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Aize Obayan
- Date of birth: 4 March, 1960
- Date of death: 29 January 2019
- University of Ilorin Degree: Ph.D.
- Profession: Educational Administrator, Professor of Counseling
- Legacy: Pioneered educational leadership and counseling in Nigeria.
Aize used to be the Vice Chancellor of both the Covenant University and Landmark University. Having received her Ph.D. from the University of Ilorin, she used to be a lecturer at a British university! After the University of Roehampton, UK, she returned to Nigeria, where she joined the Covenant University. She passed away in 2019.
5. Charles Ayo
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Charles Korede Ayo
- Date of birth: 31 October 1958
- Date of death: 2 August 2023
- University of Ilorin Degree: Ph.D. in Numerical Computation
- Profession: Academic, Administrator, Vice-Chancellor
- Legacy: Leadership, academic excellence, and ethical standards
Charles Ayo earned his Ph.D. in Numerical Computation at the University of Ilorin. His education started at Ahmadu Bello University, but later continued in Ilorin. He then moved to Lagos before leaving to become the Vice Chancellor of Covenant University. He passed away in 2023.
4. Abdul Rasheed Na’Allah
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Abdul Rasheed Na'Allah
- Date of birth: 1962
- University of Ilorin Degree: BA (1988), MA (1992)
- Profession: Academic, Educator, Professor
- Legacy: Prominent scholar in African oral literature.
Abdul Rasheed is a popular author who is known for his article in The Oxford Encyclopedia of African Thought. He received a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Ilorin in 1988. Several years later, he obtained a Master of Arts in literature at the same University.
After this, Abdul Rasheed traveled to Edmonton, Canada, to the University of Alberta, where he obtained a Ph.D. in comparative literature.
3. Sarah Alade
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Sarah Omotunde Alade OON
- University of Ilorin Degree: PhD in Management Science (Operations Research)
- Profession: Economist, Former Deputy Governor (CBN), Special Adviser
- Legacy: Pioneered key economic policies in Nigeria.
Sara is an economist and a former Governor of the Central Bank. She took up position after the suspension of Lamido Sanusi in 2014 and stayed in charge until Godwin Emefiele took over. Sarah Alade Ph.D. in Management Science from the University of Ilorin in 1991.
2. Ezekiel Adebiyi
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Date of birth: 28 July 1970
- University of Ilorin Degree: Bachelor's in Mathematics (1987-1991)
- Profession: Bioinformatics Professor and Research Scientist
- Legacy: Pioneered bioinformatics in West Africa
Ezekiel is a prospective and successful computational biologist and researcher, one of the most prominent research scientists in this field in Nigeria. He graduated from the University of Ilorin in 1991. He received an award as the most promising and outstanding student of the entire university.
1. Femi Adebayo
Source: Facebook
- Full name: Femi Adebayo Salami
- Date of birth: December 31, 1978
- University of Ilorin Degree: Bachelor's degree in Law
- Profession: Actor, Film Director, Lawyer, Producer
- Legacy: Iconic figure in Nigerian cinema and culture.
Femi Adebayo is one of the most famous alumni of the University. The Nigerian actor studied Law before he went into acting and became one of the most prominent stars. Now, this Yoruba celebrity is a successful actor, producer, and film director. He received an award as the Best Yoruba Actor from the famous Afro Hollywood.
What does the University of Ilorin Alumni Association do?
The University of Ilorin Alumni Association, as part of the Endowment and Alumni Relations Unit, focuses on maintaining connections with graduates. It also fosters a sense of community and supports the university's development through activities like alumni registration, events, and fundraising.
What is the University of Ilorin graduate's journey?
A University of Ilorin graduate's journey begins with rigorous academic work. Students engage with the university’s structures, including guidance from the UNILORIN vice chancellor and other academic leaders. Many also use the University of Ilorin postgraduate portal when planning further studies. The journey often includes financial challenges. It usually ends with a degree and a strong career path that supports the Nigerian economy.
What are the courses at the University of Ilorin?
There are many courses in the university. You can find your preferred option by checking the University of Ilorin website for courses. The list is wide and covers all faculties. Here are a few in each faculty.
Faculty of Arts
- English Language and Literature
- History and International Studies
Faculty of Education
- Educational Management
- Health and Physical Education
Faculty of Social Sciences
- Economics
- Political Science
Faculty of Science
- Biochemistry
- Computer Science
Faculty of Engineering and Technology
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Faculty of Law
- Law
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Nursing Science
Source: Facebook
Which celebrity graduated from Unilorin?
Femi Adebayo and Nkem Owoh are well-known Nollywood actors who graduated from the University of Ilorin. You can also view University of Ilorin photos to see moments from past student and alumni activities.
Which university has the best alumni?
No university is officially ranked as having the best alumni. Different schools shine in different fields. Many Nigerian universities, including UNILORIN, have strong and successful alumni networks.
Who is the best graduating student in UNILORIN?
The best graduating student in UNILORIN changes every academic year. The university celebrates these top performers during convocation, and their names appear on official platforms.
Many UNILORIN alumni have earned this title through exceptional academic performance. You can also login to the UNILORIN alumni portal to follow updates and alumni achievements.
Is the University of Ilorin accredited?
Yes, the University of Ilorin is legally recognized and institutionally accredited by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria (NUC).
Is the University of Ilorin a good school?
Yes. University of Ilorin is ranked 1201 in World University Rankings by Times Higher Education and has an overall score of 4.1 stars. This indicates satisfaction among students and high academic standards.
Source: Instagram
How much is the University of Ilorin?
The University of Ilorin charges range between N114,720 and N215,820 for new students and N52,700 and N91,430 for returning students, depending on the course of study. You can confirm updated fees on the UNILORIN portal.
What is the slogan for the University of Ilorin?
The University of Ilorin's slogan, or motto, is "Probitas Doctrina," which translates to "Character and Learning".
University of Ilorin address
Here is the address of UNILORIN:
- Email (General Registrar): registrar@unilorin.edu.ng
- Phone (Registrar): +234 805 087 8080
- Official Website: www.unilorin.edu.ng
- Mailing Address: P.M.B. 1515, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.
University of Ilorin alumni are prominent figures in many industries, not just in Nigeria but also abroad. The university has produced Vice-Chancellors, famous actors, poets and writers, among others. This is a testament to the excellence of the education at the University of Ilorin.
Legit.ng recently published an article on Best polytechnics in Nigeria: Top 10 educational institutions. A polytechnic is an institution of higher education that specializes in technical and vocational education.
They are great alternatives to colleges and universities, especially if you plan to take increasingly lucrative technical courses. The best polytechnics in Nigeria provide hands-on training in different fields.
Source: Legit.ng
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Sharon Boit (Lifestyle writer) Sharon J. Boit is a creative writer and researcher with over 10 years of experience. She began her career as a project manager and researcher at the Center for Urban Research and Innovations, University of Nairobi. Sharon has written articles and blog posts for MSN News, Ihamba Adventures, and Industry Biz. She joined Legit.ng as a Lifestyle Writer in October 2024, covering entertainment, sports, education, and finance. You can reach Sharon J. Boit by email at boit@gmail.com.
