The Vice-Chancellor of McPherson University, Professor Francis Adegbaye Igbasan, has charged university administrators to embrace innovation, professionalism, and continuous self-development as vital tools for navigating the complexities of modern higher education. He made this call during his keynote address at the maiden McPherson University Registry Lecture held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the institution’s main auditorium.
Professor Igbasan opened his remarks by welcoming the guest lecturer, Dr. Jadesola Taiwo Babatola, former Registrar of Ajayi Crowther University, and Dr. Adesola Falade from the university’s College of Computing. He praised their willingness to share knowledge and perspectives on the changing dynamics of university administration. The Vice-Chancellor also recognized visiting registrars and administrators, expressing joy at their presence and describing the event as both historic and transformative.
He commended Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale, for initiating the Registry Lecture and for pushing the idea with vision and persistence. He also appreciated Mr. Tokunbo Olakunle, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, and the entire LOC for their creativity and commitment in planning the event. Professor Igbasan noted that the Registry Lecture is a welcome innovation that should become a permanent annual feature in the university’s calendar.
Focusing on the lecture’s theme, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized the indispensable role of the Registry in university governance. He said administrative staff form the “backbone” of any academic institution, providing the unseen yet crucial support that drives university operations—from student admissions to records management. He lamented, however, that excellence in administrative duties is becoming scarce, and called for a renewed commitment to professionalism.
Professor Igbasan stressed the need for administrators to adopt a scientific and proactive approach to their duties. According to him, complacency among some staff poses a risk to institutional relevance in today’s rapidly evolving academic landscape. He advised that relevance and effectiveness in administration can only be achieved through innovation, adaptability, and a strong sense of duty.
Highlighting the growing challenges faced by private universities, the Vice-Chancellor said that administrative staff are key to overcoming these issues. He encouraged them to pursue further education, join professional bodies, and attend conferences to broaden their perspectives. “You are in the prime of your administrative career,” he stated, “develop yourselves in relevant areas and acquire additional qualifications.”
Professor Igbasan further reminded the staff that their responsibilities extend beyond clerical work. He described them as ambassadors, mentors, and problem-solvers who must uphold the institution’s values in their daily interactions with students, faculty, and external stakeholders. Their roles, he said, are central to sustaining the university’s mission and ensuring student success.
Concluding his address, the Vice-Chancellor laid out five guiding principles for administrative excellence: embrace innovation, demonstrate diligence, uphold integrity, upgrade skills continuously, and foster teamwork. He urged all administrators to let these principles shape their professional conduct. He then thanked the speakers, university management, and the hardworking administrative staff, expressing optimism that the Registry Lecture would spark a new era of excellence and transformation at McPherson University.
