Olatunji-Bello becomes first female Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University

Former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has been named Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State.

This appointment makes her the first woman to hold this position since the university was founded in 2005.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, made the appointment effective from 1 November 2026, for an initial term of three years.

In a statement on the university’s official page, Mr Adeboye expressed confidence that Olatunji-Bello will contribute positively to the school’s growth.

He said the appointment shows the trust placed in her and expressed hope that she would help the university reach its goals.

Mrs Olatunji-Bello takes over from Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, a professor and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Ogundipe praised Olatunji-Bello as the right choice for this role, saying her appointment will greatly benefit the university.

Ogundipe was appointed Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Universities Commission (NUC) in June 2026.

Olatunji-Bello’s career at LASU

Olatunji-Bello was the ninth Vice-Chancellor of LASU from September 2021 to September 2026. She completed her five-year term on 19 September 2026 and handed over to Ayodeji Badejo, who became LASU’s 10th Vice-Chancellor.

Before becoming VC, she held various administrative roles at LASU. These included Head of the Department of Physiology at LASU College of Medicine, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Acting Vice-Chancellor, and pioneer Director of the Directorate of Advancement.

She became a Professor of Physiology in 2007 and was named a Distinguished Professor by LASU in January 2026.

Mrs Olatunji-Bello started her academic career at the University of Lagos in 1988 as an assistant lecturer. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Physiology from the University of Ibadan, and both her master’s degree and PhD in Physiology from the University of Lagos.

She also became a member of the National Institute (MNI) after completing Course 34 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru in 2012.

In May 2023, she received the National Productivity Order of Merit Award from former President Muhammadu Buhari.

University’s development

The Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Shadrach Akindele, a professor, also welcomed the news of her appointment. He believes her arrival will boost the university’s growth, especially in financial stability and infrastructure.

He mentioned that her emergence marks a new phase in making the university financially sustainable and improving its facilities. This is part of continuing the vision and legacy of the previous Pro-Chancellor.

As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Professor Olatunji-Bello will provide strategic leadership to the University’s Governing Council. She will help strengthen governance, guide the strategic direction, and pursue academic excellence.

The university noted that her appointment comes at an important time as it seeks to expand its academic programs, enhance research and innovation, and solidify its reputation as a leading educational institution globally.