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The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, is one of the leading universities in the country. Founded in 1975, it has grown into a prominent institution renowned for its academic excellence, research, and expansive campus. Here are 10 fascinating facts about the University of Ilorin:

##1. A Historic Foundation
The University of Ilorin was established in 1975 by the Nigerian government, primarily to serve the educational needs of the middle-belt and northern regions of Nigeria. Its founding was part of the country's broader educational policy to ensure equitable access to higher education across the nation. And it's first vice chancellor was Akinkugbe. The immediate past vice chancellor, Professor [Is-haq Oloyede] is the first Unilorin alumnus to occupy that position. The staff and student populations now stand at 3,040 and 20,084 respectively.
The University started off on a portion of the temporary campus of the Kwara State Polytechnic known as the mini campus. This was the site of academic programmes in the Faculties of Arts, Science, Education, Engineering & Technology, Business and Social Sciences, and basic clinical sciences of the Health Sciences Faculty. It was the only campus of the university until January 1982 when more than 1000 students studying science were moved following completion of new Faculty blocks and residences for Natural Sciences and Engineering on the permanent campus site. From 1983, the law programme started as a department in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences. Following a 6-year hiatus, it was re-established in 1993 as a full fledged Faculty. The university now has 15 faculties: Arts, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Life Sciences, Management Sciences, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Communication and Information Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Pharmaceutical Science, Veterinary Medicine, and Law; a College of Health Sciences with 2 Faculties-Basic Medical and Clinical Sciences. two institutes (Institute of Education and Unilorin Sugar Research Institute); and the Postgraduate School. These faculties have over 60 academic departments. Undergraduate degree programmes are run for 3-5, or 6 years, depending on entry qualifications and discipline.

Academic/Physical Development
Following an entrance examination, 200 foundation students were admitted into residence on Saturday, October 23, 1976, and academic activities commenced on Monday, October 25, 1976, after the Principal’s maiden address at about 10.00am in the Africa Hall. The University College had three foundation Faculties namely: Arts, Science and Education. The Institution began to develop its programmes in a way that not lees than 60% of its effort was directed towards science-oriented programmes.
In October 1977, the Institution attained full autonomous status and has since then developed by leaps and bounds. The student population of 200 in 1976 has increased to 20,084 by the 2005/2006 session, while the total staff strength of the University stood at approximately 3,040 as at March 1, 2007. Up till January 1982, the University carried out its academic programmes, involving the Faculties of Arts, Science, Education, Engineering & Technology, Business and Social Sciences, and the Pre-Clinical aspect of the Health Sciences on the Mini-Campus. The completion of the Faculty blocks for Natural Sciences and Engineering as well as 8 blocks of student hotels by December 1981, made it possible, on 2 January 1982, for the actual movement of over 1,000 science-oriented students to the Main-Campus to pursue their various academic programmes.
The law degree programme was initially established in 1983/84 session as a department in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences. Though cancelled in 1986/87, it was resuscitated in 1993/94 as a full fledged Faculty.
The Main Campus currently houses the Faculties of Science, Communication and Information Sciences(CIS), Engineering & Technology, Agriculture, Education, Law, Arts, Business and Social Sciences, (following the completion of the new seven-storey Senate Complex), the Unilorin Sugar Research Institute, Postgraduate School, the Main University Library, Computer Services and Information Technology (COMSIT), Works Yard, Conference Centre, Unilorin Resources Development and Management Board (URDMB), Student Canteens, the newly completed 2,000 seat multipurpose Auditorium and the Alumni/ Endowment Office. The Mini-Campus presently houses the College of Health Sciences, a mini Library, Canteens and Shopping Complex, the Institute of Education, some of the Revenue-yielding projects which are under the URDMB such as the Unilorin Computer Centre (Training Wing), Unilorin Bookshop, the Bakery, the Printing Press, and the Guest Houses. Each Campus has a Health Centre, a Post Office and Banking facilities. Aside from two lecture theatres commissioned in 1997, there is an upsurge, from 2002 to date, in the physical development of the Main Campus. Five new Hostels were completed in 2002. Other projects were the Faculty of Education blocks and Lecture theatre; Lecture rooms, Offices and Lecture Theatre for the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences; Faculty of Science Chemistry block; Department of Agricultural Engineering block; offices for the Department of Physical and Health Education; COMSIT building (Phase I) among others.
Apart from the renovation of buildings, a systematic upgrading of teaching and research facilities are being undertaken by the University within its lean resources. This includes provision of computers, laboratory equipment, etc.
What began as a modest academic institution has since blossomed into one of Nigeria's top universities.

##2. A Diverse Student Population
UNILORIN is home to one of the most diverse student populations in Nigeria, with students from all parts of the country and beyond. Its inclusive environment fosters a vibrant academic culture, where students from different cultural and religious backgrounds learn from one another. The university has also attracted international students from other African countries and beyond, further enhancing its global outlook.

##3. Academic Excellence
The University of Ilorin is known for its academic excellence and its dedication to maintaining high standards of teaching and research. It consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in Nigeria and is renowned for its commitment to delivering quality education. The university has been praised for its stable academic calendar, which is rarely interrupted by strikes—an issue that often affects many other Nigerian universities.

##4. Wide Array of Programmes
The University of Ilorin offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It has 15 faculties, including Sciences, Arts, Social Sciences, Engineering, Law, and Health Sciences. The institution also provides opportunities for students to pursue graduate studies at the master’s and doctoral levels, with many programs available in both full-time and part-time formats.

##5. Impressive Research Output
UNILORIN has made significant contributions to academic research in Nigeria. It is home to several research institutes and centers that specialize in areas such as biotechnology, agricultural sciences, and social sciences. The university's faculty and students are constantly involved in groundbreaking research, some of which have led to innovations in agriculture, health, and technology.

##6. State-of-the-Art Campus
The University of Ilorin boasts a sprawling campus that spans over 5,000 acres, making it one of the largest in Nigeria. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including lecture halls, laboratories, sports complexes, libraries, and student accommodation. UNILORIN is continuously improving its infrastructure to provide a conducive learning environment for its students.

##7. Top-Notch Faculty
UNILORIN prides itself on having highly qualified and experienced faculty members. Many of its lecturers hold PhDs and are experts in their respective fields, contributing significantly to the university's strong reputation for academic rigor. Faculty members are not only dedicated to teaching but also actively participate in research and development initiatives that benefit both the university and the wider community.

##8. Focus on Sports and Extracurricular Activities
In addition to academics, the University of Ilorin places significant emphasis on sports and extracurricular activities. The university has a long history of excellence in athletics and has produced numerous athletes who have represented Nigeria at national and international competitions. The UNILORIN sports complex is one of the best in the country, offering students a variety of sports options such as football, basketball, athletics, and more.

##9. Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The University of Ilorin recognizes the importance of fostering entrepreneurial skills in students and has established various initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. The university hosts entrepreneurship workshops, hackathons, and start-up incubators to help students develop their business ideas and create startups. This focus on entrepreneurship helps equip graduates with practical skills for the job market.

##10. Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement
The University of Ilorin is deeply committed to community engagement and cultural preservation. Students are encouraged to participate in community development initiatives, which allow them to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. The university also hosts cultural festivals and events that celebrate the rich diversity of Nigerian cultures, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for cultural heritage among students.

##Conclusion
The University of Ilorin has established itself as one of Nigeria's leading academic institutions, known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, infrastructure, and community engagement. With its diverse student body, strong faculty, and emphasis on extracurricular activities, UNILORIN continues to shape the future of education in Nigeria and beyond. Whether you are considering studying there or simply interested in learning more about it, the University of Ilorin offers an enriching academic experience that stands out in the Nigerian higher education landscape.