UNILORIN Promotes 13 Lecturers to Professors: What Academics Can Learn 

University Of Ilorin

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has promoted 13 academic staff members to the rank of Professor, highlighting the importance of sustained academic excellence, research and professional development in the university system. 

The promotion covers disciplines including Education, Medical Sciences and Pharmaceutical Studies, with five academics from the Department of Education Management among those elevated. 

Who Were Promoted? 

The newly promoted professors include A. T. Muritala, A. A. Lawal, A. A. Atolagbe, O. J. Ojo and A. A. Tijani of Education Management. 

Others include Mary O. Ologe, Pharmacology and Therapeutics; Hafsat A. Ameen, Epidemiology and Community Health; Oluwabunmi I. N. Buhari, Behavioural Sciences; A. Saidu, Arts Education; Aminat A. Odebode and Falilat A. Okesina, Counsellor Education; A. M. Akanmu, Science Education; and S. T. Abdullahi, Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry. 

The university described the promotions as part of its academic advancement process. 

“The promotions were part of the university’s academic advancement process.” 

How Can You Become a professor? 

For lecturers and researchers aspiring to reach this level, UNILORIN development offers an important lesson: professorial promotion is built over time. 

Generally, academics seeking advancement should focus on: 

• Research: Produce high-quality research and publish in credible, recognized academic journals. 

• Teaching: Build a strong record of effective teaching and contribution to students’ academic development. 

• Academic qualifications: Obtain the qualifications required for your discipline and institution. 

• Professional contribution: Participate in conferences, academic projects, collaborations, and professional bodies. 

• Supervision: Gain experience supervising students and contributing to postgraduate education where applicable. 

• University service: Take part in departmental, faculty, and institutional responsibilities. 

• Continuous development: Keep improving your expertise and remain active in your field. 

Importantly, promotion requirements vary by university and academic discipline. Candidates should therefore consult their institution’s current promotion guidelines and ensure they understand the required publications, experience, service and other assessment criteria. 

A Growing Academic Community 

UNILORIN has continued to promote academic staff. In February 2025, its governing council approved the promotion of 51 academics, including 20 Readers to Professor and 31 Senior Lecturers to Reader. 

The latest development demonstrates that academic career progression is achievable through sustained excellence, research, and institutional service. 

For young academics, the message is clear: build your academic career deliberately. Invest in research, teaching, professional development, and meaningful contributions to your institution. The journey to becoming a professor takes time, but consistent academic excellence can open the door to senior positions.