The Vice Chancellor of the Premier University in Nigeria, Prof. Abel Idowu Olayinka has appointed Prof Oyeronke A. Odunola, first female Professor of Biochemistry as the new Head of Department of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan.

On Monday, the 3rd of August, 2020 witnessed the transfer of leadership in the Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine from the former Head of the Department, Professor Ebenezer O. Farombi to Professor Oyeronke A. Odunola who was once the acting Head of the Department from 2010-2012.

Professor Farombi described Prof. Odunola as the best person for the position. He stated that under her leadership, the department is set to witness unprecedented success.

Members of staff present include the oldest Professor of the department who just retired, Professor Olufunso Olorunsogo, Mrs Kate Nwokocha, the Chief Technologist, Ms Abiodun Bakare, the Departmental Secretary, Mr S.O. Okewuyi, Mr Adediran, Ms. Wura Subuloye, Mrs Maria Ogunsola, Mrs Omolara Ogunbiyi, Mr Eric Sabo, and Mr Obadeyin.  

Former Head of the Department, Professor Ebenezer O. Farombi  during the handing over to Professor Oyeronke Adunni Odunola

Professor Oyeronke A. Odunola is the first female to man the Department of Biochemistry University of Ibadan. Speaking to CEOAFRICA reporter, she said that her vision and mission is to maintain peace and harmony in the department. She also hopes to equip Mid - and Early -  Career researchers adequately, make the department globally recognized, and ensure the welfare of all staff members and students amidst others.

The newly appointed Head of Department of Biochemistry expressed her gratitude to God and to all the staff present for their love and support while wishing for the best in the department. She called on all staff members to support her in her mission to take the department to greater heights. She also prayed for peace and harmony in the department.

Professor Oyeronke Adunni Odunola, newly appointed Head of Department of Biochemistry

Some members of the staff and students who reacted to Professor Oyeronke Adunni Odunola’s appointment expressed satisfaction and optimism. Ms. Oju Mercy and Mrs Oyedepo Dorcas both postgraduate students in the department described the Professor as a role model, mother figure with an ever smiling, loving and caring personality. They look forward to a great future and better research experience in the department. The former however said that with the appointment of the first female Professor in the department, she believes that the people’s voices will be heard henceforth.

Meanwhile, the Chaplain of the Chapel of Resurrection, University of Ibadan, Rev. Dr. O.K. Oyelade who was accompanied by two Assistant Chaplains, Ven. Dr. V.I. Oladele and Ven. T.B. Oluwalusi has on the 4th of August, 2020 payed a congratulatory visit to the newly appointed H.O.D in her office and prayed for a successful and problem-free tenure for Prof. Odunola. Also present are Professor and Mrs R.A. Oderinde.

From the left: Ven. T.B. Oluwalusi, Ven. Dr. V.I. Oladele, Chaplain of the Chapel of Resurrection, U.I., Rev. Dr. O.K. Oyelade, Prof. R.A. Oderinde and Mrs M.O. Oderinde during the congratulatory visit to newly appointed Head of Department