The Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, today, Sunday, June 7, 2026, returned all glory to God as he marks his 60th birthday with a thanksgiving service at Living Faith Church, Lokoja, popularly known as Winners Chapel.

Speaking during the service, Professor Ibileye described his attainment of 60 years as a testament to God's faithfulness, favour and preservation. "If God has shown me this level of favour, He has preserved me for a reason. I have committed and dedicated my entire life to His service and to the development of my university," he said.

Reflecting on his journey as Vice Chancellor, he noted that although the responsibility appeared daunting at the beginning, God's grace and the prayers of well-wishers have continued to sustain his administration.

"When I was inaugurated, I wondered about the enormity of the task ahead, but the prayers said ahead have worked. We work as a family because God has gone ahead of me," he stated.

The Vice Chancellor stressed the importance of unity within the university community, expressing confidence in the institution's future.

"We are united, and a united people can never be defeated. I have absolute confidence that I can never be defeated. I have absolute confidence that I will not fail. I have never contemplated failure because God is faithful," he maintained.

Professor Ibileye further revealed the determination that drives his leadership, declaring that the current administration would leave a lasting imprint on the university.

"I may look soft, but I have unspeakable determination. Success will attend this tenure. After this tenure, Federal University Lokoja will know that it has encountered destiny."

The celebrant also remarked that reaching 60 feels more like the beginning of a new chapter than a milestone of old age. "Sixty feels so young," he added.

In a sermon entitled "Covenant Day of Encounter with Destiny," Pastor Olajumoke Israel, State Pastor of Living Faith Church, Lokoja, quoted 1 Peter 2:9, which describes believers as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and God's special people called to proclaim His praises. 

He emphasized that every individual is divinely chosen for a purpose and must remain committed to fulfilling God's assignment in their lives. The clergy further noted that destiny unfolds when people recognize their God-given identity, walk in faith, and remain steadfast in service to humanity and God. 

The service featured prayers for the Vice Chancellor, his family and the continued growth of Federal University Lokoja.

Professor Ibileye was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Stella Monisola Ibileye, their children, family members, friends and members of the Federal University Lokoja academic community, who joined him in thanksgiving for six decades of impactful living, service and leadership. See more pictures here

© Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja