The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has announced the appointment of Professor Gbenga Ibileye as the 4th Vice-Chancellor of the University, effective February 15, 2026.

The appointment was approved by the 4th Governing Council of the University, chaired by Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdallah, following a transparent, merit-based and highly competitive selection process.

Professor Ibileye emerged successful after an extensive interview exercise involving eleven distinguished professors who were shortlisted after rigorous screenings, interactions and evaluations conducted in line with extant guidelines for the appointment of principal officers in Nigerian federal universities.

He scored a total of 91.9 points to emerge first among the candidates and will take over from the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, whose tenure has been widely acknowledged as one of the most impactful in the history of the University. Professor Akinwumi’s administration recorded notable achievements in academic culture consolidation, infrastructural development, expansion of academic programmes, staff and student welfare, institutional stability and the enhancement of the University’s national relevance.

The Governing Council commended all candidates who participated in the selection process for their professionalism and dedication, while reassuring the University community of its continued commitment to transparency, due process and excellence in governance.

As the Federal University Lokoja prepares to enter a new phase of leadership, the Council expressed confidence that Professor Gbenga Ibileye will build on existing achievements and steer the University towards greater academic excellence, innovation and global competitiveness.

Members of the University community have also congratulated the Visitor, Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, members of the Governing Council, Management, staff and students for the successful conduct of what has been described as a credible and exemplary appointment exercise.