It was all praises and encomiums and prayers as Professor Olufemi Ayinde Peters, the Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), completes his 5-year tenure on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Ahead of the official hand-over ceremony to the incoming Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, the Governing Council of the university organised what turned out to be an emotion-filled send-off event which was held at the Conference Centre of the university on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
Prof. Peters was described by all and sundry as a man who came, saw, and conquered in an event graced by the Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Rauf, who was represented by the State Minister of Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad.
In his welcome address, the Chairman, NOUN Governing Council, Mallam Isa Yuguda, said Prof. Peters has significantly contributed to technological and research advancements at NOUN.
According to him, Peters played a key role in modernising infrastructure and developing long-term facilities, where his efforts led to a numbers of milestones, invluding the commendable health insurance programme for NOUN students.
Peters, Yuguda added, has also introduced substantial research grants for academic empowerment, as his administration ensured alignment with global standards, students welfare initiatives as well as pushed the boundaries of open and distant learning.
"Professor Peters positioned the institution as a leader in global education. And his legacy includes structures and future shaping," he stated.
In his lecture, the guest speaker and former Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Abdalla Uba Adamu, discussed on the importance of education and its role in society, while emphasising on educational achievements as a major priority for global unity.
Prof. Adamu, who extensively talked on what he termed as “the university of tomorrow,” said there is need for a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, explaining that nowadays education is seen as a means to secure jobs, not just knowledge.
In his tribute Dr. Godwin Ettah, a member of the Governing Council, said Prof. Peters has “ensured excellence through a clear vision and disciplined purpose. He creates system that prevents mediocrity and promote integrity. His leadership fosters a university environment where excellence thrive."
Ettah added that the National Open University of Nigeria will miss the outgoing Vice-Chancellor’s contribution upon his exit.
Goodwill messages from the University Librarian, Dr. Angela Okpala, who spoke on behalf of the Principal Officers, Prof. Charity Okonkwo, Mr. John Ubaji, Prof. Sonnie Oniye and a host of others echoed similar encomiums, reminiscing the unique leadership style of the outgoing VC.
On his part, Prof. Peters expressed joy and sense of fulfillment, having seen off his 5-year period successfully and in good health.
He, however, attributed the success of his tenure to the wonderful working staff, who took time off to mention their names as heads of various faculties, departments, study centres, units as well as the principal offcers past and present.
Peters also thanked the NOUN Governing Council, the Ministry of Education. TETFund and the NUC, who all ensured the success of his administration.
The Vice-Chancellor-designate, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, in his address., also heaved praises to the outgoing VC, promising to take the university forward, building on where Prof. Peters stopped.
Prof. Uduma rallied all stakeholders of the university towards taking the univeirsity further by ensuring an improved student enrollment as well as research and infrastructural advancements.
He thanked the Governing Council for reposing their trust in him, assuring that NOUN will surely record notable successes in all ramifications during his time as the Vice-Chancellor.
Seven books were published and presented at the event in honour of Prof. Peters by Prof. Joy Eyisi and a presentation of plaque to the incoming Vice Chancellor Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma.
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