The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of the Dean of the Faculty of Administration, Professor Rafiu Oyesola Salawu.
Professor Salawu died on Sunday, with the cause of his death yet to be officially disclosed.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the death, describing it as a profound loss to the institution, the Faculty of Administration and the wider academic community.
According to Olanrewaju, the late professor was a vibrant academic and administrator whose brief tenure as dean was marked by remarkable initiatives and visible transformation within the faculty.
Although he served as dean for barely a year, Salawu reportedly made significant improvements to the faculty’s physical infrastructure and administrative systems.
Under his leadership, virtually all offices in the faculty were equipped with air-conditioning systems, while Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) security systems and solar-powered energy solutions were introduced to enhance security, efficiency and the overall learning environment.
Beyond infrastructure, Salawu was described as a passionate advocate for students, a strong supporter of staff welfare and a bridge-builder who maintained cordial relationships with alumni and other stakeholders.
“Within that relatively short period, Professor Salawu demonstrated an uncommon commitment to excellence and institutional development,” Olanrewaju said.
The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students, expressed deep condolences to the deceased’s family and the entire university community.
Professor Bamire described Salawu as a dedicated scholar, accomplished administrator and servant-leader, noting that despite his short tenure, he had established a legacy of service and institutional transformation.
The university management prayed that Almighty God would grant the bereaved family, colleagues, students, alumni and the entire OAU community the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
Professor Salawu’s death has left the university community mourning a scholar whose leadership, commitment to excellence and passion for institutional development made a lasting impression within a remarkably short period.
