Lead City University (LCU), Ibadan, is rolling out the dreams to celebrate 20 years of groundbreaking academic and research excellence with a plethora of activities.
The premier private university in Ibadan was founded in 2005 to provide qualitative and accessible higher education, equipping students with the knowledge and skills for self-reliance needed to excel in an ever-changing global landscape.
In the last 20 years, tthe Ibadan-based university has evolved from a modest beginning into one of Nigeria’s leading private institutions, setting benchmarks in academic excellence, research, and community impact.
Speaking at a press conference marking he anniversary, the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the university, Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, called on the Federal Government to extend the same support enjoyed by public universities to private institutions.
Adeyemo emphasised the need for students of private universities to access government loans and for lecturers to receive research grants.
“Our students should be allowed to access scholarships, which will assist them in offsetting some of their school fees,” Adeyemo said$n stressing that for Nigeria to achieve academic excellence, the government must create an enabling environment for private universities to thrive. He urged the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other stakeholders to provide necessary support to private institutions, ensuring their sustainability and contribution to national development.
Reflecting on Lead City University’s journey over the past two decades, the VC noted that the institution has grown remarkably, both in academic programmes and student population. From an initial offering of 40 programmes, the university now provides about 120 courses across various disciplines. Additionally, student enrollment has surged from 4,000 to over 20,000.
“Our commitment to excellence is second to none. We are not just producing job seekers but wealth creators. Our open-door policy, zero tolerance for misconduct, and student-friendly approach set us apart from other institutions,” Adeyemo stated.
He attributed the university’s success to teamwork, loyalty among staff, and a shared vision of excellence.
The VC also pointed out that the university has made significant strides in academic research and infrastructure. Faculty members have secured various research grants, and the institution has invested heavily in state-of-the-art laboratories and learning facilities. Some of these advancements, he noted, are even superior to what is found in certain public universities.
Adeyemo reiterated that Lead City University would not compromise its standards, pledging to uphold the quality benchmarks set by the NUC.
“We will continue to maintain the standard and ensure that quality assurance is strictly adhered to. Our goal is to build a world-class institution where students and staff can thrive,” he added.
The VC also highlighted the university’s achievements in technological advancements. He noted that Lead City has developed modern research labs and facilities that surpass those in many federal universities.
“We are leading in innovation, and our research output is making an impact not only in Nigeria but across Africa,” he said.
Also, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the university’s Governing Council, Professor Jide Owoeye, unveiled the institution’s 20th-anniversary logo.
