By Adedoyin Oguntade

The Federal Government has appointed a former speaker of Osun State, Adejare Bello, as the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, effective 10 March.

His appointment comes three months after the death of the former pro-chancellor and chairman of council, Siyan Oyeweso, a professor, who died on 2 December 2025 at the age of 64.

Announcing Mr Oyeweso’s death at the time, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Simeon Bamire, a professor, described him as “a towering intellectual, a rare patriot and a man whose presence brought wisdom, depth and stability to every table he sat at.”

The appointment of Mr Bello was disclosed in a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, who said the new pro-chancellor brings a blend of legislative experience, diplomatic exposure and commitment to educational development.

“Having previously served with distinction as the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, where he demonstrated exemplary leadership, integrity, and dedication to democratic governance, the new pro-chancellor also served Nigeria meritoriously as an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Mexico in June 2021, with concurrent accreditation to Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama, contributing significantly to the country’s diplomatic engagements and international relations for intergovernmental development.

“An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Rt. Hon. Bello earned his degree in Law. His academic background and enduring connection to the university uniquely position him to understand its heritage, aspirations, and strategic direction,” the statement read in part.

Who is Adejare Bello?

Mr Bello, a native of Ede in Osun state, was born on 23 August, 1961. An alumnus of OAU, he holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the university.

His political career began in December 1997 when he was elected into the Osun State House of Assembly under the Democratic Party of Nigeria (DPN). From 1999 to 2003, he represented Ede North Constituency in the assembly under the All Peoples Party (APP), where he served as minority leader.

He was re-elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2003 to 2007 and was unanimously elected Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly during that period.

Mr Bello was again elected for another term from 2007 to 2011 and continued as Speaker of the assembly.

Beyond state politics, he served as an executive member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and held positions in national parliamentary bodies, including Vice-Chairman (South-west) of the Conference of Speakers. He also served as Acting Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of Nigeria from 2007-2008.

Beyond his public service record, he is a devoted husband and father whose family values reflect the character and discipline he brings to leadership.

The university expressed confidence in his capacity to provide leadership and to work harmoniously with Council members, management, staff, unions, students, alumni, and other stakeholders in advancing its mission and global standing.

Mr Olarewaju mentioned in the statement that Mr Bello enjoys respect across the board for his humility, accessibility, and exceptional human relations.