For the people of Ilutitun, it is a story that resonates with pride. Long before Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba emerged as the 14th substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier university, his educational journey began in the ancient Ikale town, where he attended Anglican Church Primary School, Ilutitun. Though he is an indigene of Igbole Quarters, Igboora in Oyo State, Ilutitun holds a special place in his life as the community where he took his first steps in formal education.
The Governing Council of the University of Ibadan announced Professor Olapegba’s appointment after a rigorous selection process involving eight candidates. A distinguished Professor of Psychology and former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), he will succeed Professor Kayode Adebowale as the institution’s 14th substantive Vice Chancellor, becoming the chief academic and administrative officer of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious university.
Born on April 5, 1962, Professor Olapegba later continued his primary education at St. Paul’s African Primary School, Lanlate, before proceeding to Methodist High School, Oyo. He thereafter enrolled at the University of Ibadan, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 1985, followed by a Master’s degree in 1988 and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1995. His academic journey has been defined by excellence, discipline and an unwavering commitment to scholarship.
Over the years, Professor Olapegba has distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s leading psychologists and university administrators. He has supervised numerous postgraduate students, published extensively in reputable local and international journals and served on several academic and professional bodies. Before his appointment as Vice Chancellor, he was Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), where he contributed significantly to policy formulation, institutional governance and the strategic development of the University.
His appointment has been welcomed by academics, alumni and stakeholders in the education sector, many of whom have expressed confidence in his ability to consolidate the University’s global reputation for excellence in teaching, research and innovation. Expectations are high that his administration will deepen international collaborations, strengthen research capacity and sustain the institution’s position as one of Africa’s foremost centres of learning.
For the people of Ilutitun, Professor Olapegba’s emergence is a reminder that the classrooms of their community have helped nurture individuals who have gone on to attain remarkable heights. While he proudly traces his ancestry to Igboora, his formative years in Ilutitun remain an enduring part of his inspiring story. It is a connection that the community celebrates with pride, as one who once sat in a classroom in Ilutitun now occupies the highest academic office at the University of Ibadan, inspiring a new generation to believe that every great journey begins somewhere.
