It was indeed a glorious day on Thursday 18th May 2017 as the Director of Distance Learning Centre, University of Ibadan, Professor Oyesoji Aremu delivered his first inaugural lecture amidst celebrations and accolades.

Prof Aremu, who is a Professor of Counselling and Criminal Studies at the University of Ibadan, delivered a lecture on the topic: ‘The Trinity’ and the Missing Mission where he expounded on the inadequacies of the Nigerian Police Force, the disconnection of the polity, the police and the public, as well as recommendations for functional and effective policing in Nigeria.

The Inaugural Lecture which was held at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan was well-attended by notable dignitaries, academics, scholars, family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers who came to honour the Prof at his lecture.

* Prof Oyesoji Aremu in Academic Gown flanked by former students, friends and well wishers

The double receptions which, at the end of the lecture, were held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan and the Distance Learning Centre Complex, Ajibode, Ibadan were filled to capacity with throngs of well-wishers who were entertained with music, entertainment and refreshments.

Many of the guests, who spoke to CEOAfrica at the reception, expressed joy and happiness at the achievements of Prof Aremu, showering accolades upon him. They described him in glowing tributes and commended his efforts and accomplishments.

Speaking with CEOAfrica, the Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Hon Salami Najeem Folasayo described the lecture as an enlightenment about the state of the Nigerian Police, adding that if the Police Commission can implement the recommendations proposed by Prof Aremu, then the police will be more effective. 

While extoling the effort Prof Aremu expended in his lecture, the Director of Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan, Professor Olawale Isaac Albert told CEOAfrica that the lecture underscores the shortcomings of the nation’s Police and the steps that can be taken to remedy the inefficiencies of the security agency.

  * (L) Prof Tajudeen Ademola Aknaji,  (R) Prof Olawale Albert, Senior Lecturer and Director of Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan at the reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan

The President of Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP), Dr Nathaniel Daniel Danjibo who spoke with CEOAfrica described Prof Aremu as a very proficient scholar whose passion for research and development is unequalled. Just like others, he expressed confidence in better effective policing should Prof Aremu’s recommendations get implemented.

  * Dr Nathaniel Danjibo, Senior Lecturer and President of Society for Peace Studies and Practice speaks at the reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan

Also speaking with CEOAfrica was a Senior Lecturer in University of Ibadan and Former President of SPSP, Dr Willie Eselebor who described Prof Aremu as an erudite scholar whose works are a testament to his intelligence and proficiency. Dr Eselebor also noted that the lecture is an eye-opener and a clarion call to the Nigerian Police to rise above its challenges and effect positive change in its operations.

* Dr Willie Eselebor, Senior Lecturer in University of Ibadan and Former President of SPSP speaks at the reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan

Another Senior Lecturer in the Institute, Dr Olushola Ishola who spoke with CEOAfrica extoled the virtues of Prof Aremu, while noting that the Nigerian Police Force and the general public will experience positive change and development if the government can implement the recommendations made by Prof Aremu in his lecture.

 * Dr Oulshola Ishola, Senior Lecturer in the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies speaks at the reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan

The Secretary to the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, Mrs Chinyere Alawode was delighted as she painted Prof Aremu in glowing words. According to her “Prof Aremu is not just a good boss; he is an excellent leader who is focused and committed. He is a God-fearing man and an excellent family man, as such, he deserves the best. I am delighted at his accomplishments.”

 * Mrs Chinyere Awolade, Secretary to the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies at reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan

The honoured personality of the day, Prof Oyesoji Aremu who also took time to speak with CEOAfrica, expressed his gratitude to all his colleagues, family friends, students and well-wishers who converged to honour him. He further assured that efforts are currently under way to ensure that the recommendations proposed in his lecture are implemented.

 * The Honoured Personality, Professor Oyesoji Aremu, Director of Distance Learning Centre, University of Ibadan speaks during an exclusive interview with CEOAfrica

 * Prof Oyesoji Aremu (M) flanked by colleagues, friends and well wishers who raise a toast to his continued success at the reception held at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan