By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Out of 7,368 graduating students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in Osun State, 215 have reportedly bagged First Class Honours.

Similarly, 2,197 students earned Second Class Upper Division, 2,691 obtained Second Class Lower Division, 755 graduated with Third Class, while 61 and 755 students achieved Upper Credit and Lower Credit, respectively.

The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, disclosed this during a press conference held to unveil the programme of events for the 48th Convocation Ceremonies of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

He stated that the institution would graduate a total of 7,368 students who have excelled both in learning and character, earning diplomas and degrees in their respective fields across various departments and faculties of the institution.

“This year’s convocation is particularly remarkable. It will span three consecutive days, starting from Thursday, 12th December, to Saturday, 14th December 2024, at the Amphitheatre of Oduduwa Hall on the University campus,” he said.

According to him, on the third day of the event, Saturday, 14th December 2024, the university will honour distinguished Nigerians of exceptional integrity by conferring on them Honorary Doctorate Degrees (PhD, Honoris Causa) across various academic disciplines.

“Specifically, we will confer honorary awards on five exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to humanity by uplifting the less privileged and advancing societal progress through their talents, financial resources, and material support,” Bamire stated.

He explained that the awardees include, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, OON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; Dr. Akinade Akanmu Ogunbiyi, Group Chairman of Mutual Benefits Plc; Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, a distinguished entrepreneur, academic, and engineer

Others are, Prince Toriola Olutokun, a seasoned business leader and telecommunications expert; Daere Afonya-Akobo, a prominent figure in the oil and gas sector

These eminent Nigerians will receive honorary awards for distinguishing themselves in various areas of life, both in public and private sector services, and for their invaluable contributions to the nation and society at large.