Prof. Dawood Egbefo Honoured for Academic Excellence by Northern Council of Nigeria

The Acting Vice Chancellor of Edo State University, Prof. Dawood Egbefo, has been recognised for his outstanding contributions to education with an award of academic excellence, presented by the Northern Council of Nigeria.

The award, which highlights his legacy of visionary leadership, administrative skill, and academic competence, was bestowed in recognition of his service during his tenure at Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) University, Lapai, Niger State.

 

Prof. Egbefo was honoured with the prestigious title of "Garkuma Matasan Arewa," which translates to "Icon and Cynosure of Educational Transformation."

The award was presented by Dr. Isa Ododo, President of the Northern Council, alongside Vice President Mallam Abdullahi Bilal, in a ceremony held at the Senate Chambers of Edo State University on October 14, 2024.

 

In his remarks, Dr. Ododo praised Prof. Egbefo for his tireless efforts in shaping young minds and his exceptional leadership qualities, which left an indelible mark during his time at IBB University.

He commended the Vice Chancellor's ability to combine academic rigor with a student-cantered approach, resulting in the institution's development and a brighter future for its graduates.

 

“Prof. Egbefo’s achievements speak volumes of his indiscriminate and dedicated leadership style,” said Dr. Ododo. “He has stood out among his peers, emerging as the best in his field, and the Council is proud to honor his contributions.”

 

Mallam Abdullahi Bilal, the Council’s Vice President, further highlighted Prof. Egbefo's humility and kindness, particularly toward students during his time in Lapai.

He acknowledged the professor's significant academic contributions through publications in history and international relations, which have become essential references for scholars.

 

Prof. Egbefo, who began his academic career at IBB University in 2005, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, reflecting on how his efforts in Lapai have grown into meaningful contributions to educational development. He thanked the Council for their acknowledgment and prayed for the wisdom to continue guiding young people in the face of today's challenges.

 

A key moment of the ceremony was the presentation of a symbolic portrait of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, a revered figure in Northern Nigerian politics and education. The portrait symbolizes the enduring values of leadership and education in the region, which Prof. Egbefo has embodied throughout his career.

 

The event also saw the participation of several dignitaries, including Prof. Muniratu Maliki, Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor; Registrar Habib Ekhalefo; and Bursar Dr. Osagie Osifo, alongside other university management staff.

 

In his closing remarks, the Registrar extended heartfelt thanks to the Northern Council on behalf of the university's leadership, expressing the institution's deep appreciation for the honour bestowed upon their Acting Vice Chancellor.