Follow Us on Google
From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
The Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has graduated a total of 10,959 students from undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programmes of the university at its 30th convocation ceremony.
The university also conferred honorary doctorate on Akinsanmi Falaki, an alumnus of the institution, for his impeccable track records.
In the Bachelor degrees category, 82 students bagged First Class(Hons), 2,794 obtained Second Class (Upper Division), 6,020 got Second Class (Lower Division), 1,217 earned Third Class and 12 were awarded Pass.
In the Diploma division, 11 students graduated with Distinction, 162 received Upper Credit and 111 were awarded Lower Credit, while in the Postgraduate section, PhD(155), Master’s (270), and Postgraduate Diploma (125).
The university conferred Doctor of Finance(honoris causa) on Akinsanmi Falaki, the Head, Public Sector Group, Country-wide First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB).
Falaki, a strategic young professional, unique Senior Vice President and strategic business development leader in the banking and finance sector was honoured in recognition of his distinguished career defined by strategic leadership, financial innovation, and sustained contributions to national development.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Joseph Ayodele, said since the establishment of EKSU 44 years ago, graduates produced by the university are not merely products of an institution, but architects of a brighter future.
” Each year, the institution convenes under the banner of achievement to reaffirm its dedication to creating an environment where academic rigour meets social responsibility.
“Our graduates have not only excelled in their studies, but they have also engaged with the world around them, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. They carry with them the potential to reshape industries, inspire generations and uplift communities.”
He added, “Our university community stands as a testament to resilience, cooperation and shared aspirations. Together, we commit to building a university that not only competes nationally and globally but also serves our society in meaningful ways, ensuring that the legacy of Ekiti State University endures for generations to come.”
Other News
The VC announced major academic milestones, including full accreditation for 18 programmes within one year and the expansion of faculties from 12 to 14.
He noted that EKSU currently runs 97 programmes, with 79 accredited, and revealed ongoing international collaborations with institutions such as Royal Holloway University of London to enhance research, staff exchange, and global exposure.
Ayodele further stressed the importance of technology in modern education, warning that universities that fail to embrace digital transformation risk becoming irrelevant in a rapidly evolving global system.
The VC described Falaki as a transformational leader whose professional trajectory reflects “a rare blend of vision, discipline, and commitment to institutional growth.”
He said, “Mr. Falaki has distinguished himself not only as a high-performing banking executive but also as a strategic thinker whose contributions have strengthened financial intermediation and public sector engagement in Nigeria.
“His enduring support for this University further reinforces his legacy as a leader committed to societal advancement.
“With over 18 years of experience in Nigeria’s banking industry, Falaki has built a reputation for driving business growth, managing complex credit portfolios, and leading large-scale commercial and public sector banking operations. His career spans key leadership roles at Union Bank of Nigeria Plc and Keystone Bank, where he played instrumental roles in market expansion, risk management, and operational transformation.
“At FCMB, he currently leads nationwide public sector and value chain strategy, overseeing engagements across federal, state, and local government institutions, while delivering innovative financial solutions aligned with policy priorities and economic development goals.
“Beyond his corporate achievements, Falaki’s contributions to education and human capital development have been widely acknowledged. His sustained interventions in scholarships, alumni funding, and entrepreneurial support at Ekiti State University have had a multiplier effect on Students’ outcomes and alumni advancement.”
Responding, Falaki expressed appreciation to the university’s Governing Council and Management, noting that the recognition represents both a personal milestone and a call to greater service.
“This honour is deeply significant to me as an alumnus of this great institution. It reinforces my commitment to advancing the frontiers of banking, supporting education, and contributing meaningfully to national development.”
