The University of Ilorin, Kwara State, is set to honor one of its distinguished graduates, former House of Representatives member Sheba Abayomi Sheba, during the institution's upcoming 50th anniversary celebration.
Prestigious Recognition for Distinguished Service
In a personal letter addressed to Sheba, the university's Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), confirmed that the former lawmaker will receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award during the ceremony scheduled for November 26, 2025. The event will take place at the main auditorium of the university.
The award recognizes Sheba's steadfast commitment to promoting the ideals and image of the university throughout his distinguished career in public service, law, and journalism.
Distinguished Career in Public Service
Sheba Abayomi Sheba's professional journey demonstrates remarkable versatility and dedication to national development. Between 1999 and 2003, he represented the Irele/Okitipupa Federal Constituency of Ondo State in the National Assembly, where he served as Chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Community Development.
His legislative achievements include:
- Introducing the deplorable state of the Olowo/Irele/Ajagba/Agadagba road in Ondo State to the National Budget in 2001
- Leading to the award of a contract for road reconstruction by the Federal Government, completed in 2003
- Leading a House Committee delegation to China to study poverty reduction and sustainable development mechanisms
Beyond his legislative work, Sheba served as a member of the Presidential National Core Team that drafted Nigeria's Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSP).
Extensive Educational Background and Professional Roles
Sheba's educational journey is particularly impressive. He attended the University of Ilorin between 1985 and 1989 for his first degree, laying the foundation for his subsequent academic achievements.
His educational qualifications include:
- B.A (Hons)
- LLB (Hons)
- BL
- LLM
- MPA (Public Administration)
- M.SC (Peace and Security Studies)
- M.phil (Law)
- Ph.D (Peace & Security Studies)
Professionally, Sheba has worn multiple hats with distinction. He began his career as a versatile journalist with The Guardian Newspaper, covering politics, environment, and other important beats.
His subsequent roles include:
- Senior Partner with Harwood Solicitors in Abuja and Lagos
- Non-executive director representing Ondo State on the Board of Nigeria Wire and Cable Plc (2004-2005)
- Head, Ondo State Government Liaison Office, Abuja, and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Olusegun Agagu (2005-2008)
- Federal Commissioner representing Ondo State on the Board of Federal Character Commission, Abuja (appointed July 2009)
- Ag. Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (September 2018-August 2019)
Notably, his appointment as Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission made him the first Southerner in the 26-year history of the Commission to hold such a position.
Sheba's early education began at St. Andrews CMS Primary School and United Grammar School, Ode-Irele for his primary and secondary education.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sheba is described as happily married with children, enjoying time with his community, and participating in sports including badminton, ping-pong, and lawn tennis.
The University of Ilorin's decision to honor Sheba Abayomi Sheba during its golden jubilee celebration underscores the institution's pride in alumni who have made significant contributions to national development across multiple sectors.
