Former UNILORIN VC AbdulGaniyu Ambali Is Dead
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has been thrown into mourning following the death of its former Vice Chancellor, Professor AbdulGaniyu Ambali, who passed away on Saturday after a brief illness at the age of 68.
Professor Ambali, who served as the institution’s 9th Vice Chancellor between 2012 and 2017, was widely celebrated for his contributions to the growth and development of the University.
Until his death, he was serving as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.
Announcing the sad development, the Vice Chancellor of UNILORIN, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, described the late academic as an exceptional administrator, scholar and statesman whose impact transcended the university community.
According to Egbewole, the passing of Ambali represents a significant loss not only to the University of Ilorin and Kwara State University but also to Kwara State, Nigeria and the global academic community.
“This is a huge loss not only to the University of Ilorin and the Kwara State University, Malete, which he currently served as Pro-Chancellor, but also to the entire nation and humanity,” the Vice Chancellor said.
Egbewole extended condolences to the bereaved family, the people of the Ilorin Emirate and associates of the late professor, noting that his legacy of service and commitment to educational development would remain unforgettable.
He also urged members of the University community and other sympathisers to attend the Janazah prayer scheduled to hold at the deceased’s residence in Oloje Housing Estate, Ilorin, at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.
Professor Ambali’s death marks the end of a distinguished career in academia and public service, during which he played key roles in advancing higher education and institutional development in Nigeria.
