Muhammed Kamaldeen University made history as it hosted its inaugural Matriculation and Investiture Ceremony, blending academia and tradition. Led by Chancellor Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and Pro-Chancellor Professor Oba AbdulRaheem, the event symbolized the university’s dedication to academic distinction and cultural heritage.
The ceremony commenced with a regal procession, as faculty members, dignitaries, and honored guests filed into the auditorium amidst the strains of traditional music and applause. Chancellor Sulu-Gambari delivered a profound address, highlighting the pivotal role of education in shaping the destiny of nations and communities.
Following the matriculation of the university’s inaugural cohort of students, the investiture ceremony saw Professor Oba AbdulRaheem assume his role as Pro-Chancellor with a solemn oath, pledging his dedication to advancing the university’s mission of scholarly excellence and societal impact.
In his inaugural address, the Pioneer Vice Chancellor of MKU, Prof Abdulrasheed Gbenga Jimoh, announced the matriculation of 148 pioneer students and articulated his vision for Muhammed Kamaldeen University as a beacon of intellectual enlightenment and a catalyst for positive change in the region and beyond. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity in realizing the university’s aspirations.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed that MKU began its operation with 15 approved Bsc programmes, highlighting the institution’s tremendous progress and development within a short period since commencing academic programmes.
The highpoint of the event was the investiture of the MKU Chancellor, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the investiture of the institution’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Professor Suhaib Oba Abdulraheem.
Leading the scores of personalities to the well-seated gathering was the pioneer Chancellor of the University, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari; the University Visitor and Khalifatul Adabiyeen Shaykh Abdul Quodri Muhammad Kamaldeen, the Commissioners for Tertiary Education; and Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Mrs. Mary Arinde and Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu respectively.
Other personalities included the MKU Pro-Chancellor, Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem; Ag Vice Chancellor of the Kwara State University Prof Shaykh Luqman Jimoh, Vice Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University Prof Noah Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of Thomas Adewumi University Prof. Francisca Oladipo, Vice Chancellor of Ahma Patigi University Prof Kazeem Gbolagade, Provost College of Education, Oro, Prof Aremu, Mallam (Prof) Ola Olu Ali (SAN), University of Ilorin Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academi Prof Omotesho, University of Ilorin Registrar Barrister Mansur Alfanla, and the Registrar University of Health Science, Ila-Orangun Alhaji Kazeem Kayode Babanale.
Also in attendance were Prof Abdulganiy Abdulsalam Oladosu, Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa, the Mufty of Ilorin; Alhaji Saadudeen Salahudeen, the Senior Adviser to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; the Grand Kadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, the National President of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) Alhaji Abdulmumeen Ayo Abdulmaliq, the National Secretary of IEDPU Alhaji Abubakar Imam, the Chairman of Ilorin Durbar Engineer Alapansanp; Justice Idris Abdullahi Haroon (rtd), and Sheikh Sarafdeen Ajara.
Others included Justice Abdulraheeem Ahmad Sayi, Justice Mashood Adebayo Oniye, Justice Dagbo, and some Kadis and top staff officers of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal as well as other eminent personalities from all over the country.
The ceremony culminated in a vibrant celebration, as students, faculty, and guests came together to commemorate this momentous occasion. As Muhammed Kamaldeen University embarks on its journey to greatness, the inaugural Matriculation and Investiture Ceremony stand as a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and tradition.
Aduagba Faruq is a skilled writer, conversationist, and freelance journalist with a strong background in English and Literary Studies. He crafts engaging stories with passion, truth, and creativity.