Member representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, has expressed delight over the appointment of Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.
In a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, through his spokesperson, Hassan Adesodi Olaoniye, Hon. Adepoju described the appointment of the Igbo-Ora-born scholar as a moment of immense pride and celebration for Ibarapa Land, noting that it is proof of the region’s rich intellectual heritage and commitment to excellence.
The federal lawmaker said the appointment has brought joy and excitement to the people of Ibarapa, stressing that serving as Vice-Chancellor of Nigeria’s premier university and one of Africa’s foremost institutions is a responsibility of great honour and significance.
According to him, whenever sons and daughters of Ibarapa have been entrusted with leadership positions in either the public or private sector, they have consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity and outstanding performance. He cited the distinguished services of many sons and daughters of the region, including that of his late father during his tenure as Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, as an example of the quality of leadership for which Ibarapa people are known.
The Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character stated that Ibarapa has continued to produce men and women who have made remarkable contributions to national development across diverse fields. He recalled that barely two months ago, another indigene of the region emerged as the Head of Service of Oyo State, describing the latest appointment of Professor Olapegba as evidence of the region’s enduring legacy of excellence.
He urged young people across Ibarapa Land not to allow their background to put their backs on the ground but to remain committed to personal development, hard work and academic excellence, drawing inspiration from accomplished sons and daughters of the region who have defied the odds to attain national prominence.
Hon. Adepoju congratulated Professor Olapegba on his well-deserved appointment and called on all stakeholders, the University community and the people of Ibarapa Land to support him with prayers and cooperation to ensure a successful and impactful tenure.
He described the new Vice-Chancellor as a distinguished scholar whose outstanding academic accomplishments and sterling professional reputation have earned him respect within and beyond Nigeria, expressing confidence that he would provide visionary leadership for the University of Ibadan.
“This is an achievement we cannot celebrate enough. I understand what it means to lead Nigeria’s first university and one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions. As the son of a former Rector, I understand the kind of responsibilities that come with such an office. I therefore call on all sons and daughters of Ibarapa Land to unite in prayers and support for our kinsman as he embarks on this important national assignment.
“This is indeed a proud moment for our region. I believe this appointment will go a long way in strengthening the legacy of excellence for which Ibarapa is known and inspire generations yet unborn to strive for greatness,” he said.
