We welcome you to Olabisi Onabanjo University, our forward-looking institution of academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Here, we embrace our rich heritage and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and service to society. From our foundation as an institution designed to address the educational needs of Ogun State and beyond to our expansion into a dynamic, multi-campus university, our journey has been guided by innovation, integrity and a deep dedication to nurturing human potential.
We are more than simply an institution of higher learning. We are a vibrant community of scholars, researchers, students and practitioners who share a common goal: to advance knowledge, solve real-world problems, and shape the future. Through our teaching, research and community engagement, we empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve academic and professional success and to become socially responsible citizens.
With a clear vision and mission, we continually evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. We invite you to explore our history, values and aspirations – and to discover what makes OOU a place where transformation happens, potential is realised, and lifelong learning thrives.
Our Vision
The Olabisi Onabanjo University shall be the centre of academic excellence where “knowledge, skills and value will be pursued relentlessly to ensure the flowering of human abilities, service to the Nigerian nation and the world at large in the wider context of traditional wisdom and culture”.
Our Mission
“To provide the best educational experience for our students and the public through excellence in teaching, research, creative activities and service to the state, society and the world at large.”
Our History
The civilian Government of Ogun State in 1979 expressed its desire and determination to establish more Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and a university for the state during its first term in office. Thus, by a letter dated 19th January 1982, the then Honourable Commissioner for Education convened the Planning committee for the establishment of Ogun State University.
Founding and Legislative Establishment
On 16th March 1982, the planning committee headed by renowned Professor Akinlawon Ladipo Mabogunje, submitted its report. Consequently, in July, 1982, a bill to establish Ogun State University was debated and passed into law by the Ogun State House of Assembly. With the assent of the then Civilian Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, on 7th July, 1982 it became the “law to provide for the establishment, incorporation, constitution, laws and functions of a Provisional Council of the Ogun State University and for other matters incidental thereto or connected therewith.”
Inauguration of the First Governing Council
On Tuesday, 28th September 1982, the appointment of the pioneer Chairman of Council, the first Vice-Chancellor and other members of the Provisional Council was announced by His Excellency, the then executive Governor of Ogun State. The Provisional Council was formally inaugurated on Thursday, 28th October, 1982.
Multi-campus Structure
Ogun State University was patterned after the American State University system. In addition to adopting the “land grant” system, Ogun State University was established to lead in the identification of the state’s problems and also proffer solutions for them. To enable the university have a state-wide reach, Ogun State University was designed as a multi-campus institution, with…
- College of Health Sciences in Sagamu (Remo)
- College of Engineering in Ibogun (Egba)
- College of Agricultural Sciences in Aiyetoro (Yewa), and
- The main campus houses the faculties of arts and humanities as well as natural sciences in Ago-Iwoye (Ijebu).
Opening of the university
On Monday, 31st January, 1983, the university opened its doors to its first set of students, numbering a little over 500 in all. On Friday, 30th January, 1987, the university held its first convocation ceremony, formally graduating 285 students who had completed and passed their examinations as at 17th September, 1986.
Pioneer Leadership
The foundation principal management officers of the university were:
- Professor A. L. Mabogunje – Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council,
- Professor J. O. Sodipo – Vice Chancellor
- Mr. N. O. Sotoyinbo –Registrar
- Mr. O. O. Ogundipe (Librarian, University of Benin) – Visiting Librarian
- Mr. S. B. Onigbinde – Deputy Bursar
- Mr. A. O. Oyeledun – Deputy Director of Works.
Today, the University is operating in all its various campuses, with over 95% of its academic programmes accredited by NUC. Ogun State University, now Olabisi Onabanjo University has continued to produce high quality manpower that leads in the identification of global problems and proffering solutions to them.
Olabisi Onabanjo
OOU was originally known as Ogun State University (OSU). The institution was later renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University on 29 May 2001 in recognition of Chief (Dr.) Olabisi Onabanjo, the former civilian governor of Ogun State, whose vision and commitment was central to the founding of the university.
From its early years, OOU has grown into a comprehensive, multi-campus institution respected for academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Its legacy as OSU remains deeply woven into its identity, as many former students, staff, and members of the public still fondly use the original acronym. This continuity reflects the university’s rich history, its strong alumni culture, and its enduring reputation across Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

Our Philosophy
OOU seeks to give useful learning to its students, who will be encouraged to cultivate a worldview that facilitates not only the continuous pursuit of academic and moral excellence but also developing their expertise and competence in reducing the quagmire of society’s disease, ignorance and squalor.
The university shall therefore be rooted in its community and act, at all times, as a beacon and symbol of the spirit of the community (local and national), guardian of its morals and a formulator of its hopes and aspirations. Accordingly, it shall cultivate a distinct tradition and character that reflect those essential values and nuances that give the host and national communities their distinctive flavour and identity.
Core Values
In the context of shared vision and collective mission, coupled with the aspiration to assist Olabisi Onabanjo University to attain and remain at the cutting edge of research, learning and higher education in Nigeria and in the international arena, the following values will guide the work performance during this plan period and beyond.
- Commitment, Competence, Teamwork and Self-motivation,
- Initiative, Hardwork and Sacrifice
- Loyalty and Sincerity
- Integrity and Honesty,
- Excellent Professional Service,
- Client (Students’ Government, other Stakeholders)
- Satisfaction and Delight;
- Fool-proof Professional conduct;
- Resourcefulness and initiative;
- Superior productivity;
- Gender Consciousness and Sensitivity;
- Transparency, Accountability and Due Process;
- Innovativeness and Positive Change;
- Good Corporate Governance
OOU Organogram

His Excellency Prince Adedapo Oluseun Abiodun, MFR, Governor of Ogun State, serves as the Visitor to the University, providing strategic guidance and fostering strong alignment between our institutional goals and the State’s development agenda. A graduate of Kennesaw State University with a background in accounting and extensive entrepreneurial experience, he has led several successful ventures in the energy and technology sectors. His interest in higher education is demonstrated through his support for institutional stability and academic excellence. As Visitor, he offers oversight, promotes collaboration with government, and champions initiatives that enhance research, infrastructure, and community impact. His leadership philosophy—rooted in accountability, innovation, and service—continues to reinforce our mission to produce skilled, ethical, and globally competitive graduates.

Professor Toyin Ashiru, appointed in 2022, is a globally recognised materials and metallurgical engineer whose career spans four decades across academia, industry, and international consultancy. A graduate of the Universities of Sussex and Birmingham, he has held senior research and teaching roles in Nigeria, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, and has provided expert services to major global energy corporations and international organisations. Renowned for his patented engineering innovations and contributions to corrosion control and industrial materials technology, he has also shaped strategic initiatives in project management, performance improvement, and organisational transformation. His extensive board experience, professional honours, and commitment to mentoring young scholars continue to enrich the governance and strategic direction of the University.

Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola has led the university since October 2022, bringing to the role a distinguished background in cancer pathology and extensive administrative experience. An alumnus of the institution, he built his academic career after earning his M.B.Ch.B from the former Ogun State University and completing his medical training at the University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu. His earlier service as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) strengthened the University’s academic and research systems. As Vice-Chancellor, he promotes homegrown solutions to national challenges, advocates for retaining local talent, and works closely with stakeholders to address issues affecting higher education. His leadership continues to reinforce our commitment to quality teaching, research, and societal development.

Professor Olatundun Abosede Oderinde brings over twenty-six years of teaching, research, and academic leadership to the role. She began her career in the University as a Graduate Assistant in 1996 and rose to become a Professor of New Testament and Christian Theology in 2020. An alumna of the former Ogun State University, she holds degrees in Religious Studies, Public Relations, Christian Theology, and a Ph.D. from Lagos State University. Her scholarship focuses on women in the New Testament and the transformative role of the Church, supported by an extensive record of publications, conference engagements, and postgraduate supervision. She has served the University in several key positions, including Head of Department, Sub-Dean, Senate Representative, and Chairperson of major committees. Her work continues to strengthen academic quality, staff development, and student support across the University.

Professor Oladipo Olusola Olubomehin is a seasoned historian and administrator who has served the University since 1987, rising to the rank of Professor in 2013. A graduate of the former Ogun State University with advanced degrees from the University of Ibadan, he has taught widely in African History and research methodology, guiding numerous postgraduate students to completion. His administrative record spans key roles such as Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Governing Council member, and Chair of major Senate and policy committees. With more than forty journal articles and several books to his credit, he maintains a strong academic presence through research, external assessment, and professional service. His leadership continues to support efficient administration and uphold the University’s academic standards.

Dr Caleb Ilemobayo Orukotan, appointed Registrar in 2024, brings a broad and seasoned background in university administration to the role. A graduate of the University of Lagos with advanced degrees from Olabisi Onabanjo University and the University of Benin, he has built a career spanning both public and private tertiary institutions. His experience includes leading major divisions such as Establishment, Council Affairs, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Human Resources, and the Vice-Chancellor’s Office. Having risen to the rank of Deputy Registrar in 2018, he has contributed to numerous committees and governance structures, strengthening institutional processes and staff development. His leadership supports effective administration, regulatory compliance, and smooth operational coordination across the University.

Mr Olufemi Stephen Sowunmi, appointed as the 6th Bursar of the University in 2023, brings two decades of dedicated financial management experience to the role. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, he holds qualifications in Science Laboratory Technology and Accounting, and has served in key positions across the Bursary, including Head of Final Accounts, Head of Reconciliation, Head of Treasury, and Deputy Bursar. His career reflects a strong commitment to transparency, due process, and the modernisation of financial operations. Beyond his core duties, he has contributed to major institutional committees, supported national professional bodies, and played active roles in cooperative and staff welfare initiatives. His leadership continues to strengthen our financial systems and support responsible resource management across the University.

Professor Fehintola Nike Onifade, an expert in knowledge management, leads the University Library with a strong commitment to widening access to scholarly resources and supporting the information needs of all users. Holding a PhD in Library and Information Studies from the University of Ibadan, she has built a distinguished academic and professional record centred on knowledge management, digital scholarship, open data, and information literacy. With more than thirty-five publications and extensive mentorship experience, she has contributed significantly to the development of librarians across the country. She has organised numerous seminars and training programmes aimed at improving staff capacity and promoting effective library use. As University Librarian, she oversees collection development, staff coordination, and service delivery, while advancing a culture of collaboration, innovation, and research visibility within the University.
The Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, is an emerging 21st century citadel of learning in terms of teaching and research. It is the oldest university in Ogun State. It was ranked the ‘Best State University’ out of a total of 57 in Nigeria in 2016; and the 16th out of 279 Higher Education Institutions in Nigeria, in terms of web visibility in 2023.
The ranking of our academic programmes, based on the accreditation of programmes in 2020 and 2021, placed the University higher in professional programmes such as Medicine, Law, Accounting, Banking and Finance, Economics, Engineering, Architecture, among others in Nigeria. In fact, all our 75 academic programmes were accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Additionally, ten new programmes have been approved by the NUC to commence in the 2023/2024 session; these are Building, Estate Management, Quantity Surveying, Forensic Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Criminology and Peace Studies, Taxation, Applied Geophysics and Education Management & Planning. The University’s programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels are highly sought after by candidates from across the nation.
Our giant strides in the deployment of ICT to advance effective service delivery in terms of teaching and learning are exceptional. It is on record that the University was the first to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to conduct screening examinations for candidates seeking admission into the University. With the huge ICT infrastructure, NUC approved the university’s Open and Distance Learning Programme, which has been providing world-class experience to students enrolled on the programme.
The University is a first-choice institution with a students’ population of 32,239, which comprised undergraduate (full time and part-time) and postgraduate], distributed across 72 academic Departments, 14 Faculties and 3 Colleges. The staff strength is 1,859 (consisting of seasoned academic, administrative and technical personnel).
The university prides itself in providing a holistic educational experience through a state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities seated in remarkably ambient environment.
It is, therefore, my great pleasure to welcome you to the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye – the first tertiary institution of the Nigerian Gateway State.
Professor Ayodeji Johnson Agboola
Vice-Chancellor
Colleges and Faculties
Directorates and Units
Academic Directorates
- Academic Planning
- Centre for Continuing Education
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- General Studies (GNS) and Farms
- Linkages and Partnership
- Open Distance Learning Centre
- Quality Assurance
- Research
- SIWES
- Institute of Education
- Olubi Sodipo Counselling Centre
- OOU Business School
- Talabi Dialysis Centre
Non-Academic Directorates
Recent Posts
- OOU TO GRADUATE 147 FIRST CLASS STUDENTS, OTHERS AT 35TH CONVOCATION CEREMONIES January 22, 2026
- CONVOCATION CEREMONIES COMMENCE ON THURSDAY, 22ND JANUARY January 21, 2026
- PRO-CHANCELLOR’S END-OF-YEAR MESSAGE AND BEST WISHES FOR 2026 TO THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY December 31, 2025
- DON SEEKS SOLUTION TO NIGERIA’S POWER GRID CHALLENGES December 3, 2025
- OOU STUDENTS EMERGE WINNERS OF CIPM NATIONAL QUIZ COMPETITION December 3, 2025