In a landmark development, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, has appointed Professor (Mrs.) Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole as its first female Vice-Chancellor—ushering in a new era of leadership defined by academic excellence, ethical values, and spiritual depth.
A renowned academic, administrator, and Christian leader, Professor Oduwole brings decades of experience, intellectual distinction, and unwavering faith to her new role. She is married to Venerable Olusoji Oduwole of Christ Church Mapo in Ibadan, under the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). In addition to her academic pursuits, she actively leads Bible studies at Christ Church Mapo and St. Anne’s Church, Molete.
A Scholar of African Philosophy and Ethics
Professor Oduwole holds a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Ibadan, alongside an M.Sc. in Bioethics from the prestigious Erasmus Mundus program, a collaboration between top European universities including Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), Radboud University (Netherlands), and the University of Padova (Italy). She is a Professor of African Philosophy and Ethics at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.
At OOU, she has served in several pivotal capacities, including:
- Head of the Department of Philosophy
- Director, General and Entrepreneurial Studies
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration)
Her contributions over more than 30 years have significantly shaped the academic landscape of the institution.
Global Reach and Research Excellence
Professor Oduwole’s research covers African Philosophy, Ethics, Bioethics, and Gender Studies. Her global contributions include:
- Member, Erasmus Mundus Teaching Commission (2011/2012)
- Editor, BEonline Journal, West African Bioethics Training Program
- Faculty Member, West African Bioethics Program
- Ethics Committee Member, OOU Teaching Hospital
- Research Contributor to the INDIGENE project led by Prof. Clement Adebamowo
She has provided essential insight into the ethical implications of genomic research across African contexts.
Faith-Driven Leadership
Deeply rooted in Christian service, Professor Oduwole teaches Sunday Bible study and serves on the Theological Accreditation and Regulatory Board of the Church of Nigeria, chaired by Bishop Professor Dapo Asaju. Her leadership in both academic and ecclesiastical circles reflects her holistic approach to service.
Honours and Recognitions
Her outstanding record has earned her several accolades, including:
- Dean’s Award – Best Student, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan (1981/82)
- Alvan Ikoku Prize in Philosophy (1982/83)
- Long Service Award, OOU (2006)
- Erasmus Mundus Bioethics Scholarship (2011/2012)
- Global Forum on Bioethics Research Grants (2015, 2016, 2019)
- British Council Grant on Higher Education Funding (Ongoing, 2019)
Professional Engagements
She holds membership in respected bodies such as:
- Philosophers Association of Nigeria (PAN)
- Bioethics Society of Nigeria (BESON)
- New HIV Vaccine and Microbicide Advocacy Society (NHVMAS)
- American Society for Bioethics and Humanities
- Multiple online bioethics platforms
Professor Oduwole’s appointment is a significant stride not just for Ajayi Crowther University, but for the broader academic and faith-based community in Nigeria. Her leadership promises a future anchored in scholarship, integrity, and spiritual guidance — a true reflection of a life devoted to purposeful service.
