PRESS RELEASE

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, MNAL, FESAN, FLAN, has expressed profound appreciation to the multitude of dignitaries, colleagues, friends, associates, students, and well-wishers who joined him in celebrating his 60th Birthday and Book Launch held on Saturday, June 7, 2026.

The occasion witnessed the presence of government functionaries, members of the University Governing Council, principal officers, provosts, deans, directors, heads of departments, labour union leaders, alumni, traditional rulers, religious leaders, students, family members, friends, and admirers from diverse walks of life.

Professor Ibileye has described the overwhelming turnout and goodwill as one of the most humbling experiences of his life.

“I am deeply touched and sincerely overwhelmed by the unprecedented show of love, honour, friendship, and support demonstrated by countless individuals and groups who identified with me on the occasion of my 60th Birthday and Book Launch. The outpouring of affection, prayers, goodwill messages, and kind gestures has left an indelible mark on my heart,” he stressed.

The Vice-Chancellor wishes to note that the celebration transcended personal recognition and reflected the enduring values of friendship, mentorship, collaboration, and shared commitment to educational advancement and national development.

Professor Ibileye specially acknowledged the Government of Kogi State, members of the Federal University Lokoja Governing Council, principal officers, management team, staff, students, alumni, professional colleagues, traditional institutions, religious organisations, and numerous stakeholders whose presence added colour, prestige, and significance to the occasion.

He further expressed appreciation to those who travelled long distances to attend the event, as well as the countless individuals who sent congratulatory messages, offered prayers, made phone calls, and extended goodwill through various platforms.

Professor Ibileye also commended all individuals and groups, especially Dr Tosin Olagunju, Prof. Joy Aworo-Okoroh, Dr Peter Okpeh, Dr Lateef Iyanda Kugbayi, Dr Salamatu Sani, Emmanuel Ikpelemoh, Dr Aisha Adaranijo and Dr Simeon Olaogun, whose contributions ensured the success of the production of the Book and its Launch, describing their support as a significant investment in scholarship, intellectual development, and the promotion of knowledge.

According to him, the milestone serves as a reminder of God's abundant grace and faithfulness throughout his journey in life, academia, and leadership.

The Vice-Chancellor prayed for God's abundant blessings upon all those who celebrated with him and wished them greater accomplishments, good health, peace, prosperity, and fulfilment in all their endeavours.

On behalf of his family, he extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed in one way or another to the success of the celebration and book launch. See more pictures here

Signed:
Dr Tosin Olagunju
Director, Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja