Who Is Professor Peter Olapegba? Meet the University of Ibadan's New Vice-Chancellor

The Governing Council of the University of Ibadan (UI) has officially announced the appointment of Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the institution’s 14th Vice-Chancellor. This significant decision, confirmed by a statement from the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Adebisi Akande, followed the council’s approval of the recommendation from the Joint Council-Senate Selection Board.

Professor Olapegba emerged as the 14th Vice Chancellor of the Premier University after a keenly contested selection process that involved screening potential candidates from both within and outside the university, which included eight candidates in total.

Professor Olapegba, who is a distinguished academic from the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of the Social Sciences at the University of Ibadan, is anticipated to be among the youngest individuals to serve in this prestigious position. His journey to this role is marked by a rich background and extensive academic achievements.

Born on January 26, 1970, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Professor Olapegba hails from Igbole quarters in Igboora. His early education began at Anglican Church Primary School, Ilutitun, Ondo State, before he completed it at St. Paul’s African Primary School, Lanlate, in 1981. He continued his secondary education at Lanlate High School, attending from 1981 to 1986.

Before embarking on his university education at the University of Ibadan, Olapegba gained practical experience working as a sales clerk in Lagos.

His academic journey at the University of Ibadan saw him earn a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1997, followed by a Master’s degree in Social/Personality Psychology in 1999, and culminating in a PhD in Applied Social Psychology in 2008 . These degrees were all obtained from the same esteemed institution.

Beyond his formal academic degrees, Professor Olapegba has pursued additional professional qualifications, including a diploma in International Boundary and Borderland Studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Theology, and specialized professional training in mediation and conciliation.

His academic career at the University of Ibadan commenced on June 1, 2000, as an Assistant Lecturer, after a brief tenure as a research officer with the National Examinations Council (NECO). He steadily ascended through the academic ranks, achieving the prestigious title of Professor of Applied Social Psychology on October 1, 2014.

Throughout his service at UI, Professor Olapegba has held several pivotal leadership positions. These include Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Sub-Dean (Postgraduate), and Director of Alumni Relations, demonstrating his commitment to institutional leadership and development.

His research contributions are extensive, with over 100 scholarly publications to his name. He has successfully secured numerous local and international research grants and has served as an external examiner for various universities across the African continent, underscoring his influence and expertise in his field.

The appointment of Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba as the 14th Vice-Chancellor marks a new chapter for the University of Ibadan, bringing a seasoned academic and proven leader to guide the institution forward.