Six Influential Nigerians Who Graduated from University of Ibadan and Their Courses
Founded in 1948 and originally named the University College, Ibadan (UCI), the University of Ibadan (UI) stands as Nigeria's premier university. Over the decades, this prestigious tertiary institution has cultivated some of the nation's most influential minds, who have made significant impacts in their careers and on a global scale. Often referred to as the Harvard University of Nigeria, UI boasts a rich legacy of alumni, from literary giants to political leaders and global diplomats, leaving indelible marks on history.
Notable Alumni and Their Academic Paths
This article highlights six iconic Nigerians who passed through the University of Ibadan, detailing their fields of study and graduation years. These individuals exemplify the university's role in shaping leaders across various sectors.
- Chinua Achebe
Emeritus Professor Albert Chinualumogu Achebe, widely known as Chinua Achebe, is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan. Best known for his novel Things Fall Apart, Achebe is regarded as a founding figure of modern African literature. He graduated from the Department of English, Faculty of Arts, in 1953. Achebe passed away on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82 in Boston, Massachusetts, after a brief illness. - William Folorunso Kumuyi
William Folorunso Kumuyi, the general superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, is another great alumnus. Pastor Kumuyi graduated with a first-class honours degree in mathematics in 1967 from UI. His ministry has branches across Nigerian states and other nations, reflecting his influence in religious and community spheres. - Godwin Obaseki
Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, a former governor of Edo State from 2016 to 2024, studied classics at the University of Ibadan. He gained admission in 1976 and graduated in 1979 with a Second Class Honours (Lower Division). His political career underscores the university's contribution to governance and public service. - Professor Abiola Odejide
Professor Abiola Odejide was the first female deputy vice-chancellor (Academic) of the University of Ibadan. She earned both her undergraduate B.A. in English in 1968 and her PhD in 1986 at the university. A Professor of Communication and Language Arts, she served as the founding principal investigator of the Gender Mainstreaming Programme from 2007 until her retirement in September 2011. - Flora Nwapa
Chief Florence Nwanzuruahu Nkiru Nwapa, widely known as Flora Nwapa, was the first African woman novelist to be published in the English language in Britain. She graduated from the University College Ibadan (now UI) between 1953 and 1957, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, History, and Geography. Notably, she was the first female student to gain admission into UCI by direct entry. - Professor Gabriel Babatunde Ogunmola
Professor Gabriel Babatunde Ogunmola, a Nigerian professor of chemistry and chancellor of Lead City University, Ibadan, obtained both his bachelor's degree in 1965 and his doctorate (PhD) in Chemistry in 1968 from UI. He later became a professor of biophysical chemistry there in 1980, highlighting his academic contributions and leadership in higher education.
Legacy of Excellence
The University of Ibadan continues to produce highly influential graduates who excel in diverse fields. From literature and religion to politics and academia, these alumni demonstrate the institution's commitment to fostering talent and driving societal progress. Their stories inspire current and future students to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to Nigeria and beyond.
