The Diaspora body of the University of Ibadan Alumni Global Network has commissioned a Viewing and Gaming Centre dedicated for the viewing pleasure of students and the university community.
The commissioning, which took place on the last Sunday of the month of September 2021 at the Student Union Building, was unveiled by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Ekanola. The VC was assisted by notable members of the academic community including the Dean of Students Affairs, Prof. Abiona, Deputy Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Demola Lewis and President, UI Alumni Global Network, Mr Jamil Eniola.
In his speech, Mr. Eniola praised the Student Union Government for their leadership roles among students in addition to their cooperation while the project lasted. He further advised the students to see the project as their own thing, and use and maintain it to the best of their ability while encouraging other bodies in the Diaspora to sponsor more projects.
In his response, the Students Union President, Mr. Segun Akeju, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Alumni association, for the donation and pledged to mutually cooperate with the Alumni for the development of the institution.
Mr. Eniola also used the opportunity to declare to the joy of all present that the English Premier League Club, Southampton FC has agreed to set up a football academy hub inside the university campus for the benefit of students of the institution as well as neighbouring communities.
“This is the first time any premier league club would set up a football academy hub inside a Nigeria University. The Team Nigeria-UK, the partnership organisation with Southampton FC has agreed to visit the University of Ibadan and Southampton FC officials in January 2022, to formalise the relationship,” Eniola said.
Responding, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ekanola thanked the UI Alumni Global Network for the project, and efforts towards the development of sports and social activities on campus.
The VC joyfully welcomed the news of the English premier league club’s choice for a football academy hub in Nigeria.
“We are looking forward to welcoming the Southampton FC officials and partners into the University next year January 2022.
Other attendees at the epoch making event were students union executives of the institution, the students community as well as members of the immediate university community.
