Rain Of Praises, Prayers As Governing Council Holds Send-Off Programme For Prof. Peters
There was an outpouring of praises, encomiums and prayers on Tuesday as the Governing Council of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) organised a send-off programme in honour of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Ayinde Peters, who is set to complete his five-year tenure on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
The emotion-filled ceremony, held at the university’s Conference Centre on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, took place ahead of the official handover to the incoming Vice-Chancellor, Professor Uduma Oji Uduma.
Professor Peters was widely described by speakers at the event as a leader who “came, saw and conquered,” having steered the institution through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. The programme was graced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Rauf, who was represented by the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NOUN Governing Council, Mallam Isa Yuguda, commended Professor Peters for his significant contributions to technological advancement and research development within the university.
Mallam Yuguda noted that the outgoing Vice-Chancellor played a pivotal role in modernising the university’s infrastructure and initiating long-term facilities development, leading to several notable milestones, including the introduction of a commendable health insurance scheme for NOUN students.
He further disclosed that Professor Peters’ administration prioritised academic empowerment through the provision of substantial research grants, improved staff capacity building, and the promotion of student welfare initiatives, all while aligning the institution with global best practices.
According to the Governing Council chairman, Professor Peters also pushed the boundaries of open and distance learning, positioning NOUN as a leading institution in global education delivery.
“Professor Peters positioned the institution as a leader in global education, and his legacy includes enduring structures that will shape the future of the university,” Yuguda stated.
The event concluded with prayers and goodwill messages for Professor Peters as he prepares to formally hand over the leadership of the university.
