Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo

10/10/2026

Three Days of Fasting, Prayers, and Prophetic Declarations

…Bishop Oduntan, Ven. Adetule, Dr. Olasupo Charge University Community to Seek Fresh Oil, Fresh Anointing for Greater Heights

By Emeka S. Oluka

The three-day fasting and prayer programme declared by the Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole to usher in the 2026/2027 academic session has been concluded with a prophetic declaration of “Renewal for a New Season” upon the institution and a call on the University community to seek fresh oil and fresh anointing for greater heights.

The programme which commenced on Wednesday, 7 October, ran through Friday, 9 October, 2026, bringing together staff, students, and other members of the University community for worship, prayers, and spiritual reflection ahead of the new session.

The day one of the event opened with the Rt. Rev’d Dr. Olugbenga Oduntan, Bishop of Oyo Anglican Diocese, declaring "Renewal for a New Session,” on the University.

Taking his text from Psalm 92:10. He prophetically issued the declaration upon ACU, stressing that a new academic session demands more than fresh plans, renewed goals, and human effort, but divine direction, strength, and wisdom.

He urged members of the university community, particularly students, to submit their ways unto the Lord and not depend solely on their own understanding. The day witnessed prayer sessions and prophetic declarations to guide and protect the University Management Team, staff, students, and all stakeholders.

On the second day, the Vicar of the Anglican Church of the Ascension, Akobo, Ibadan, Ven. Adesanmi Adetule inspired the gathering with a message of fresh strength, fresh testimonies.

The day was marked by an atmosphere of intense worship, heartfelt prayers for mercy, and spiritual renewal. His message on the day was centred around “Fresh Oil,” where he described fresh oil as fresh anointing from God for the renewal of spiritual strength and empowerment for greater accomplishments.

He noted that every new session presents an opportunity for a new beginning, urging the University community to embrace the session with renewed commitment to God and readiness to fulfil purpose.

Ven. Adetule particularly charged members of staff to arise and give their best in their respective departments and units, stressing that God rewards faithful service. He admonished participants not to underestimate their abilities but to continually develop themselves and strive for growth, expressing optimism that the spiritual exercise would usher the community into a new season of divine renewal, wisdom, strength, and greater accomplishments.

On the third and final day, Dr. Oriji Olasupo of St Paul’s Anglican Church, Odo-Ona, Ibadan, took to the podium to proclaim fresh anointing and greater heights on every facet of the University.

Dr. Olasupo, who led the sermon and prayer sessions, emphasised that spiritual renewal, divine wisdom, and grace were essential for progress and excellence. He explained that maintaining a connection with God was fundamental to experiencing fresh anointing and receiving the spiritual strength required to fulfil one’s purpose.

He cautioned against entering the session with goals alone, stressing that God’s grace was also needed to accomplish aspirations, and that attaining greater heights requires greater discipline and comes with increased responsibilities.

Outlining practical steps for spiritual growth, Dr. Olasupo urged members of the University community to build and strengthen personal altars, set higher goals, cultivate discipline and diligence, choose relationships wisely, embrace continuous learning, and maintain a strong personal relationship with God, combining faith with hard work.

Amidst the prayers, praises and messages the three-day fasting and prayer programme recorded its significance towards the new academic Session and the University at large.

It provided members of the University community with an opportunity for spiritual reflection, renewal, and rededication ahead of the new academic session. For the University, the exercise reinforced the institution’s foundation of faith and divine guidance in the pursuit of institutional advancement. For staff, it served as a call to diligence, faithful service, and commitment to their respective duties. For students, it offered spiritual preparation, divine wisdom, and renewed strength for academic excellence and personal development in the 2026/2027 session.

The programme concluded with a strong sense of God’s presence, reinforcing the University’s conviction that faith, discipline, and divine guidance remain central to personal and institutional success in the new academic year.

07/10/2026

Bishop Oduntan Declares "Renewal for a New Season" Upon ACU

...As University Commences 3 Days of Fasting & Prayers to Usher in the New Academic Session

By Oluka Emeka Samuel & Ifeoluwa Adediran

The Rt. Rev'd Dr. Olugbenga Oduntan, the Bishop of Oyo Anglican Diocese, has prophetically declared the "Renewal for a new season" upon Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo.

The Bishop made the declaration while delivering an exhortation titled "Fresh Oil: Renewal for a New Session," at the commencement of the 3 Days of Fasting & Prayers to Usher in the New Academic Session 2026/2027, declared by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole.

The 3 days of fasting and prayers, which commenced on Wednesday, 7 October, would run till Friday, 9 October, 2026.

Taking his sermon from the book of Psalm 92:10, Bishop Oduntan said a new academic session demands more than fresh plans, renewed goals and human effort; it requires divine direction, strength and wisdom.

He expressed profound appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for the gracious invitation to participate in the spiritual exercise, describing the initiative as an indication that the university leadership understands the spiritual dimension of securing the destiny of an institution.

According to him, institutional destinies cannot be secured by academic qualifications and financial resources alone, stressing that the ultimate security and success of the institution can only come from God.

He explained that the essence of the three-day programme is to commit the new session into the hands of God and ask Him to go with the University throughout the session.

"If God is not at the centre of what we are doing, there are dimensions that human capacity cannot attain," he stated.

The Bishop emphasised that every new academic session deserves a new encounter with God, describing prayer as an acknowledgement of God's sovereignty and an essential part of seeking His direction.

He therefore urged members of the University community, particularly students, to submit their ways unto the Lord, warning them not to depend solely on their own understanding but to acknowledge God in all their ways.

He further encouraged the students to ask God for fresh oil, explaining that it represents fresh knowledge, strength, wisdom, passion, ideas, creativity, vision, faith and capacity to fulfil their responsibilities.

He added that the desire for fresh oil must be accompanied by consecration, urging the University community to dedicate themselves afresh to God as they begin the new session.

The first day witnessed prayer sessions and prophetic declarations to guide and protect the University Management Team, staff, students and all stakeholders.

The three-day fasting and prayer programme is equally aimed at seeking God's guidance, strength and presence throughout the new academic session.



Photo Credit: Victorious Cinematography

06/10/2026

"Keep Hot Food Hot, Cold Food Cold," Prof. Olanbiwoninu Warns

...As ACU Holds 32nd Inaugural Lecture

By Emeka S. Oluka

Nigerians have been warned to keep hot food hot and keep cold food cold considering the time and temperature abuse, in order to ensure safety in the food we eat.

The 32nd Inaugural Lecturer of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Afolake Atinuke Olanbiwoninu, gave the stern warning while delivering the lecture titled "Invisible Giants: The Microbial Forces Securing Food, Protecting Health and Sustaining Life on Earth," on Tuesday, 6 October, 2026.

Prof. Olanbiwoninu, an expert in Food Microbiology, emphasised the 2-Hour/4-Hour Rule, explaining that time and temperature abuse occurs when food remains in the Temperature Danger Zone (between 5°C and 60°C) for too long. "Food left in this zone for under 2 hours can be used or chilled; between 2 and 4 hours, it must be used right away, and after 4 hours, it must be thrown out. No seasoning, regardless of its antimicrobial properties, can replace sound food-handling practices," she stated, giving the take-home message: "keep hot food hot, keep cold food cold, and do not rely on seasoning to make poorly stored food safe."

Illustrating her research with her study on the "Survival Pattern and Toxin Production of Pathogens in Spiced and Non-Spiced Fried Rice," the don noted that ready-to-eat foods commonly served at Nigerian social gatherings such as weddings, conferences, and religious celebrations are often prepared in large quantities well in advance and held at ambient temperature until serving.

Prof. Olanbiwoninu, who is also the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), disclosed that findings from her study were "enlightening and equally troubling," as pathogenic organisms such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus multiplied rapidly as holding temperatures declined and storage time increased. She submitted that many outbreaks of food poisoning associated with social events do not result from inadequately cooked food, but rather from improper handling after cooking.

While acknowledging that traditional spices such as garlic, ginger, thyme, and curry inhibited microbial growth to varying degrees, she warned that "the antimicrobial properties of spices should not be misunderstood. Although they reduced microbial proliferation, they did not eliminate foodborne pathogens or prevent toxin formation during prolonged storage."

Turning to fresh fruits and vegetables, the inaugural lecturer noted that unlike cooked foods, fruits do not undergo heat treatment that can destroy pathogenic microorganisms before consumption, yet many are consumed raw.

She cited her research on microorganisms associated with spoiled tomatoes sold in local markets, popularly called esha in Yoruba, revealing that financial constraints often lead consumers to buy partially spoiled tomatoes because they are considerably cheaper. According to her, investigations revealed numerous bacterial and fungal species associated with spoiled tomatoes, several of which exhibited high levels of antimicrobial resistance.

Prof. Olanbiwoninu stressed that consumer behaviour is influenced not only by scientific knowledge but also by economic circumstances, adding that effective food safety interventions must recognise the complex interactions between poverty, food security, market dynamics, and public health.

In conclusion, she described microorganisms as "invisible giants," saying, "Although invisible to the naked eye, microorganisms sustain ecosystems, recycle nutrients, enrich soils, preserve foods, improve nutrition, protect public health, and provide innovative solutions to challenges that confront every nation." She called for microbiology and biotechnology to be central to national development strategies as Nigeria seeks to strengthen food security, improve public health, diversify its economy, and build a resilient bioeconomy.

In her recommendations, she urged government, academia, industry, and development partners to promote indigenous fermented foods, strengthen national food safety systems, increase investment in microbiology and biotechnology, address micronutrient deficiencies, strengthen antimicrobial resistance surveillance through a One Health approach, and recognise microbiology as a strategic national intellectual asset.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, described the inaugural lecturer as a multiple research grant and award winner who has contributed in no small measure to the development of Ajayi Crowther University. The lecture was also graced by the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Timothy Adebayo, among other dignitaries from all walks of life.



Photo Credit: Victorious Cinematography

05/10/2026

VC Grants ACNN Interview, Says She is Building on the Foundation That was Left for Her

By Emeka S. Oluka

The Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, has revealed that her drive in ACU is to build on what the past leaders of the University left for her.

Prof. Oduwole made the revelation while speaking on the Advent Cable Network Nigeria (ACNN) Live programme, "Today on ACNN (Live)," held on Monday, 5 September, 2026.

Addressing the topic, "365 Days in Office: The Challenges, and the Agendas Ahead with Ajayi Crowther University VC," Prof. Oduwole answered each question with accuracy, dexterity, and detail, wowing the interviewers and listeners alike.

The Vice-Chancellor, who is the 5th substantive and first female Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, stated that she had mixed feelings when she received the news of her appointment. According to her, "I was happy. Actually, I was crying. I cried. I called my family members and we all came together to give gratitude to God, praying."

She noted that after the excitement, she decided to seek the face of God by travelling outside the country for almost one month for a personal retreat, as it dawned on her that the entire University Community expected a lot from her. She said she saw the appointment as an appointment from God and decided to behave like Solomon, who asked for wisdom.

Speaking on her key priorities upon assuming office, the Vice-Chancellor said she set out to have a good relationship with the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, the Supra Board West, the Board of Trustees led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, and the University Governing Council led by Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo.

In addition, she sought to have a formidable management and a robust Senate where ideas would be generated in an atmosphere of love and friendship, as well as good relationships with staff, food vendors, shop owners, and students. "By the grace of God, today I have a good relationship with them. The students call me 'Auntie Ebun', and I'm proud of that," she said.

Prof. Oduwole also acknowledged her predecessors, including Prof. Olajire Olaniran, Prof. Emeritus Kolawole Jaiyeoba, the Right Reverend Prof. Dapo Asaju, and Prof. Timothy Adebayo, stating that they all gave her a solid foundation to continue to build on.

She noted that within her 365 days in office, the management had made an impact on the three other campuses of the university: the Offa Meta campus, the Awe-Kieseni campus, and the Osoogun campus. Adding that the Offa Meta campus houses the Faculty of Nursing, Engineering, Basic Medical, Pharmacy, and the MBBS programme, with a new hostel under construction and upgraded facilities.

She further said that the Faculty of Agriculture had been moved to the Awe-Kieseni campus, which is now live, while the Osoogun campus has become a tourist centre, featuring the baobab tree to which Samuel Ajayi Crowther was tied and his family house.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University had signed an MOU with the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) for an agricultural facility and cashew germplasm at the Osoogun campus. Revealing that the University received positive verification from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to start MBBS and PharmD programmes, launched Distance Learning and Part-Time Studies, established a Research and Innovation Office, and rehabilitated hostels and road networks.

On staff welfare and capacity, Prof. Oduwole said a successful promotion process had been carried out, staff and students were motivated, and a lot had been done on digitalisation, ICT, and the spiritual rebirth of the University community. She noted the University was working towards powering all buildings with solar energy, appreciating the Faculty of Engineering for ensuring all buildings are solar-powered.

Speaking on what ACU is doing differently, Prof. Oduwole said the institution's focus is to raise Godly Intellectuals with knowledge and probity, with zero tolerance for drugs, cultism, and truancy. She stated that apart from JAMB courses, students obtain three other certificates in mind education, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship, noting a partnership with a university in Korea for mind education.

Reflecting on what the position has taught her, the Vice-Chancellor said she had learned to carry a lot of weight, adding that she could be in the students' hostel at any time because she sees them as her children. She emphasised that as a woman, she does not need to compromise standards, maintaining her principles at all times while relying on God spiritually.

Prof. Oduwole advised married women on how to navigate being a mother, a wife, and a Vice-Chancellor, saying, "You do not see yourself as a woman. You see yourself as a human being. She stressed the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people who believe in and encourage one, adding that she had the support of her husband and children.

She however described her journey so far as one of resilience, integrity, and believing in God, handing over everything to Him.

01/10/2026

Crowther Hall Erupts in 5-Hour Praise Party as ACU Celebrates VC’s First Anniversary

By Emeka S. Oluka & Ifeoluwa Adediran

Crowther Hall of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, was transformed into a grand and glamorous setting on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, as staff, family, friends, and members of the University community gathered in celebration and thanksgiving to mark the first year in office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole.

The event lived up to its hype, "O Ma Loud Gaan," which translates to "It's gonna be highly loud" in English. With praises, dances, and thanksgiving unto the Lord, the hall radiated elegance, joy, and celebration, creating a fitting atmosphere for the five-hour praise and thanksgiving session organised to commemorate the milestone and appreciate God for His faithfulness, guidance, and preservation throughout the Vice-Chancellor's first year in office.

The praise session featured music ministrations by Mercy of God Ministry, Iyanuoluwa Solomon Ojo, Obatoyese Olabode, and Teju Praise, who led the congregation in songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. The all-white gathering also featured other performances from staff, choir groups, and soul-gripping soloists.

In her testimony, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to members of the University community for their support and for journeying with her throughout her first year in office.

She also spoke on some of her plans and agenda for the University, particularly her desire to showcase the excellence of the University's students and staff through their outstanding works and publications. She further revealed plans to recognise and showcase the contributions of food vendors within the University community.

Earlier in the exhortation, the Venerable Dr. Ayo Ogidiolu noted that the Lord had been with the Vice-Chancellor throughout her first year in office, emphasising that her coming to Ajayi Crowther University was part of God's purpose.

He encouraged the Vice-Chancellor to continue to trust in God for greater achievements, stressing that when God is at the centre of a programme, He would see it through to a successful end.

A documentary highlighting the achievements and milestones recorded by the Vice-Chancellor during her first year in office stole the show of the day, with guests applauding the beautiful landscape and scenery of ACU showcased in the documentary.

The event, marked by praise, thanksgiving, and reflection on the progress recorded during the Vice-Chancellor's first year in office, sets the tone for greater accomplishments in the years ahead for the Vice-Chancellor and the University.



Photo Credit: Victorious Cinematography

01/10/2026

Grab your popcorn, sit, relax and enjoy.

ACU in Retrospect under the 365 days leadership of Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole FNAL FCIA

An Emeka Oluka ( Oluka Emeka Samuel) Concept.

Packaged by Victorious Cinematography

01/10/2026

01/10/2026

HAPPY NEW MONTH

Dear Staff, Parents and Members of the University Community,

Happy Independence Day, and welcome to October!

As we welcome the month of October, may it bring renewed strength, greater opportunities, peace and remarkable accomplishments to every member of our University Community.

Let us continue to pursue excellence, integrity and unity as we advance the vision of Ajayi Crowther University.

Warm regards,

Prof. Ebunoluwa O. Oduwole FNAL FCIA

Vice-Chancellor,
Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo

30/09/2026

Prof. Akiibinu Calls for Robust Immunology Curriculum, Special Research Funding to Tackle Disease Burden

...Says over 90% of Tertiary Healthcare Facilities Lack Immunologists, Diagnostic Labs

By: Oluka Emeka Samuel & Ifeoluwa Adediran

A Professor of Chemical Pathology and Immunology, Prof. Moses Olayemi Akiibinu has called on the Federal Government to make the study of Immunology a robust part of the curriculum in all tertiary institutions across Nigeria and Africa, declaring that no meaningful progress in healthcare delivery can be achieved without it.

Prof. Akiibinu made the call while delivering the 31st Inaugural Lecture of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, titled "Immunology, the Meeting Point of Sciences, Allergy and Treatment Failure," on Tuesday, 29 September, 2026.

Prof. Akiibinu, who is also the Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, emphasised that immunology sits at the critical intersection of basic sciences, translational medicine and clinical care, and that every scientist, irrespective of discipline, has a role to play in its development.

The don urged the government to vote special funds for research in immunology to contain the burden of infectious diseases, even as he called on pharmaceutical companies to collaborate with indigenous immunologists in developing vaccines against infectious diseases in Africa.

He further tasked the Ministry of Health to mandate and encourage all secondary and tertiary hospitals to set up standard immunology laboratories, noting that more than 90 per cent of the nation's tertiary healthcare delivery facilities neither engage immunologists nor have facilities to support diagnostic immunology for the wellbeing of patients.

Prof. Akiibinu, who described immunity as synonymous with good health, summed up his submission in a simple phrase: "No immunity, no good health."

He stressed that immunology serves as a bridge between the biological and physical sciences, adding that the study teaches a profound philosophical lesson: "Balance is everything. The same cellular machinery that protects us from the microscopic pathogens of the world can, if destabilised, fail in its protective roles."

On drug allergy, the lecturer warned that it causes insidious damage to tissues and organs, leading to severe complications and treatment failure. He therefore recommended that drug allergy tests be carried out alongside other routine tests in patients with chronic diseases.

He also called on the government to engage immunologists through the Nigerian Society of Immunologists to develop an appropriate template for setting up research and diagnostic immunology laboratories, saying such a move would encourage the personnel development of young immunologists and curb the brain drain among senior immunologists in the country.

Prof. Akiibinu noted that most advanced economies have invested heavily in immunologic research and diagnosis, adding that this should serve as a red flag that helps check emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in relation to citizens' patterns of susceptibility or resistance.

Earlier, in her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, described the inaugural lecturer as a thoroughbred scholar whose impact has been felt in the field of immunology and in the development of the University's medical sciences.



Photo Credit: Victorious Cinematography

30/09/2026

ACU Celebrates the Passing of an Esteemed Father, Bishop Gideon Olajide at 96

...As VC Commiserates with Entire Anglican Family

The Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, with a heavy heart filled with thanks to God, announces the passing of a revered cleric, an esteemed father, and former member of the Implementation Committee of the University, the Rt. Revd. Gideon Isaac Oladipo Olajide, who died at the age of 96.

The Vice-Chancellor, in a statement, described the retired Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese as a founding father of Ajayi Crowther University and a faithful shepherd who served the Church and academia with remarkable dedication.

Prof. Oduwole said the late Bishop Olajide was among the members of the Implementation Committee whose tireless efforts contributed significantly to the establishment and successful take-off of Ajayi Crowther University more than two decades ago.

Apart from commending his invaluable role in the creation of the University, Prof. Oduwole said the late Bishop would also be remembered for his remarkable contributions to the expansion and growth of Anglican Dioceses, characterised by spiritual revival, administrative reorganisation, and extensive missionary enlargement, which culminated in the creation of more dioceses - a legacy reflected in the naming of several church structures in his honour.

Bishop Olajide's relationship with Ajayi Crowther University was foundational and distinguished, spanning the institution's formative years and its subsequent growth. Before the formal establishment of the University, Bishop Olajide served on the Implementation Committee, where he contributed to the planning, structural development, and transitional processes involved in transforming St. Andrew's College, Oyo, into what would become Ajayi Crowther University.

In that historic role, he worked tirelessly alongside a distinguished team of founding fathers, including Emeritus Prof. Oladipupo Akinkugbe, Archdeacon Emmanuel Alayande, Most Rev. Joseph Adetiloye, Emeritus Prof. Ayo Banjo, Emeritus Prof. Ayo Bamgbose, Prof. Olajire Olaniran, Chief Bode Amao, and Most Rev. Peter Jasper Akinola.

Following the foundational phases, Bishop Olajide continued to serve the University as a member of its Governing Council, contributing to administrative oversight, policy formulation, and governance.

He was appointed to these roles by the Provinces of the Church of Nigeria in Western Nigeria, acting as a key liaison and leader bridging the Anglican episcopacy with the administrative establishment of the University.

Born on 10 March 1930 in Igbemo-Ekiti, Bishop Olajide was an alumnus of Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti. He served the Church and academia faithfully for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Anglican Communion in Nigeria. His episcopacy in Ibadan lasted until his retirement in March 2000.

His distinguished career included service as Provost of the Cathedral of St. James, Oke-Bola, Ibadan, from 1977 to 1981, where he oversaw significant spiritual growth and Cathedral development.

He was elevated as Bishop of Ilesa in 1981, serving until 1988, before his translation to the Diocese of Ibadan in October 1988.

In her reaction, Prof. Oduwole commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased and the entire Anglican family, which he served meritoriously.

Prof. Oduwole described the late Bishop as a pillar of support to the University and a mentor to many, noting that his contributions to the institution's foundation and growth would never be forgotten.

The late Bishop's ministry was characterised by an open heart, open house, and open hand policy. He founded new schools, planted over two dozen new churches, and encouraged the establishment of church clinics and a church hospital. He also founded a school for handicapped and disabled children.

Bishop Olajide received several awards and honours, including an Honorary Doctorate degree from Lead City University in 2010.

He was mentioned in "World Men of Achievement" and "Who is Who in the Commonwealth" (2nd Edition, 1984).

He is survived by children, grandchildren, and a host of spiritual children.