The Congress of Nigerian Students at the University of Johannesburg (CONSUJ), on Thursday, July 23, 2026, installed Babatunde Okediji as its president to lead the organisation for a new tenure.
The event was also organised to honour the outstanding contributions of multiple award-winning Abejide Ade-Ibijola, a professor of Artificial Intelligence, for his remarkable decade of service at the University of Johannesburg.
The dual-purpose event, held at the UJ Astro Hockey Pavilion of the University, brought together Nigerian students, academics, alumni, postdoctoral fellows, researchers, distinguished professors as well as industry experts to celebrate Ade-Ibijola's excellence, leadership, and ushering in the Okediji-led administration for continuity.
Organised by the immediate-past CONSUJ President, Dr Esan Oluwadamilola, the ceremony reflected the association's commitment to honouring individuals whose service has left a lasting impact on the Nigerian student community while ensuring a seamless transition to a new generation of student leadership.
In his address, Okediji lauded Esan-led administration for laying a strong foundation, and acknowledged the invaluable support of Professor Ade-Ibijola which he consistently extended to Nigerian students over the years.
Okediji pledged to build on the achievements of previous administrations while advancing the welfare, unity, and academic excellence of Nigerian students at the University of Johannesburg.
In her farewell speech, Dr Esan noted that honouring exemplary leaders such as Professor Ade-Ibijola inspires future generations to pursue excellence, serve selflessly, and invest in others.
Participants noted, that although Ade-Ibijola was concluding his tenure at the institution, his legacy of excellence, innovation, mentorship, and service will continue to inspire generations of students and academics across Africa.
Ade-Ibijola joined the University in 2016 as a Senior Lecturer, from where he rose through the academic ranks to become a Full Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Applications with over 100 awards and recognitions, including receiving the University's Vice-Chancellor's Distinguished Awards for Innovation and Teaching Excellence twice along the way.
Beyond his scholarly achievements, speakers described him as a mentor, innovator, and father figure whose unwavering support for Nigerian students helped shape countless academic and professional journeys.
Through initiatives such as GRIT Lab Africa, Professor Ade-Ibijola has empowered thousands of young Africans with practical skills in Artificial Intelligence, innovation, programming, and entrepreneurship, reinforcing his belief that "Africa does not only need more degrees; Africa needs more builders."
One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of a Digital Book of Appreciation, containing heartfelt goodwill messages from colleagues, students, alumni, and friends whose lives have been enriched by Ade-Ibijola's mentorship and leadership.
Congratulations Prince Babatunde Okediji, may the good God back you up for an outstanding success IJMN 🙏
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