The Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Chapter, has held an interactive forum bringing together top administrators, including the Registrar of the University, Mr. Kamaldeen Adetunji Bakare, as well as Directors, Deputy Registrars, and other members of the University Registry. The event, which held at the prestigious Oduduwa Hall of the University, served as a platform for reflection, agenda-setting, and appreciation.

In his opening address, the Chapter Chair of ANUPA, Mr. Kehinde Ejiwumi, who doubles as the Ag. Director of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, commended members for their unwavering commitment to the progress of the association and the University at large. He lauded their sacrifices in ensuring the Registry remains a vital cog in the University’s administrative machinery.
Mr. Ejiwumi also expressed gratitude to the University management, particularly the Registrar, for facilitating a wave of promotions within the Registry. According to him, the promotions not only recognized hard work but also served as motivation for staff to excel in their duties.

Looking ahead, Mr. Ejiwumi outlined ANUPA’s programmes for 2025, highlighting plans to host send-off events for retiring Directors and Deputy Registrars. He emphasized the importance of these events in celebrating the contributions of outgoing members, while appealing to the general membership for support in ensuring the success of the association’s activities throughout the year.

Addressing the gathering, the Registrar, Mr. Kamaldeen Adetunji Bakare, expressed heartfelt appreciation to ANUPA members for their continued cooperation and support since he assumed office. He acknowledged the critical role the Registry plays in the overall success of the University’s operations and pledged to continue advancing initiatives that enhance efficiency.

Mr. Bakare provided updates on his plans for the Registry in 2025, with a focus on transitioning to a paperless—or at least paperlight—administrative system. While acknowledging the challenges faced in pursuing this vision, including technological gaps and resistance to change, he reaffirmed his determination to modernize the Registry to meet global standards.

The meeting also featured interactive sessions where members discussed pressing issues affecting their roles and the wider University community. Topics ranged from staff welfare to the need for capacity-building programmes to enhance professionalism within the Registry.
In response to members’ concerns, the Registrar assured attendees of his commitment to addressing identified challenges. He encouraged them to embrace innovation and adaptability, stressing that the Registry must remain proactive in navigating the evolving demands of university administration.

As the meeting drew to a close, the Chair and the Registrar jointly emphasized the importance of unity within ANUPA. They urged members to support the association’s programmes and work collectively to achieve its goals for the year. The event ended on a note of camaraderie, with members sharing ideas and reaffirming their dedication to excellence in service delivery. The OAU ANUPA chapter remains a beacon of administrative excellence within Nigerian universities, and the outcomes of this meeting further underscore its pivotal role in shaping the future of university administration.