The Registry of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has honoured the Vice Chancellor of McPherson University, Professor Francis Adegbaye Igbasan, with the prestigious Registry Appreciation Award during the 15th Edition of the University’s Registry Annual Lecture held on Thursday, July 16, 2026. The award was presented in recognition of his outstanding support for the FUTA Registry through the provision of sabbatical opportunities that have contributed significantly to capacity building and administrative excellence. Celebrating the recognition, the Registrar of McPherson University, Mrs. Emi Alawode, described the honour as a fitting testament to Professor Igbasan’s exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to the advancement of higher education.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium, Federal University of Technology, Akure, was hosted by the Registrar of FUTA, Mr. Charles Olusegun Adeleye, under the chairmanship of the Vice Chancellor and Chief Host, Professor Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, FAS. The event attracted the management of FUTA, registry professionals, academics and representatives from various higher institutions across Nigeria.
The annual lecture, titled “Quality or Quantity: Rethinking Higher Education Administration in 21st Century Nigeria,” was delivered by Professor Hope O. Eghagha, Professor of English Literature and Literary Analysis at the University of Lagos and former Commissioner for Higher Education, Delta State. In his presentation, he advocated a strategic shift from the mass production of graduates to the development of highly skilled, globally competitive professionals, stressing that quality administration remains the bedrock of academic excellence and sustainable institutional development.
A large contingent of academic and non academic staff from McPherson University travelled from Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State, to Akure to celebrate with their Vice Chancellor as he received the prestigious honour. Their presence reflected the strong sense of unity, loyalty and admiration for his leadership within the University community.
The 15th Registry Annual Lecture once again provided a platform for meaningful engagement on contemporary issues in higher education administration while recognising individuals whose leadership and contributions continue to strengthen university governance in Nigeria. Professor Igbasan’s recognition further reinforces McPherson University’s growing reputation for academic excellence, sound leadership and meaningful collaboration within the nation’s higher education sector.
