- BoT affirms confidence in Akinwale’s capacity to advance excellence, integrity
Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos, has announced the appointment of Rev. Father (Professor) Anthony Alaba Akinwale, OP, as its third substantive Vice-Chancellor. The appointment, which takes effect from September 1, 2025, was confirmed by the Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, Sir Steve Bamidele Omojafor, in an official statement. Fr. Akinwale, a Catholic priest of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), is a renowned Professor of Systematic Theology and Thomistic Philosophy.
He succeeds Professor Christopher Odetunde, whose tenure as Vice-Chancellor concludes at the end of August 2025. A highly respected scholar and seasoned administrator, Fr. Akinwale brings to the role over three decades of academic leadership, intellectual rigour, and dedication to the values of Catholic higher education. He was the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Dominican University, Ibadan from 2017 to 2022 and has served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Augustine University since 2023.
His academic and administrative contributions have earned him recognition both within Nigeria and in international academic circles. In appointing Fr. Akinwale, the University’s Board of Trustees affirmed its confidence in his capacity to deepen the institution’s mission of academic excellence, moral integrity, and the holistic formation of students. The Board noted that his leadership is expected to further strengthen Augustine University’s standing as a centre of excellence in teaching, research, and service rooted in Catholic values.
“The appointment of Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Anthony Akinwale marks a new chapter in the growth and development of Augustine University,” said Sir Omojafor. “His wealth of experience, intellectual depth, and moral leadership will be instrumental as we continue to build a university community committed to excellence and ethical responsibility.”
The Board also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christopher Odetunde, for his exemplary service and dedication during his tenure. The academic community has welcomed the announcement with optimism, anticipating a new era of innovation, vision, and transformative leadership under Fr. Akinwale’s guidance.
