Overview and History of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin

 
##Introduction
Established in 2005 by the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF), Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, stands as Nigeria's first Islamic faith-based private university.  The institution is committed to integrating academic excellence with moral and spiritual values, encapsulated in its motto: "Learning for Wisdom and Morality."  Over the years, Al-Hikmah University has grown into a reputable institution, offering a wide range of accredited programs and fostering a conducive environment for learning and research. 

##Official Website
For more information about Al-Hikmah University, including admission requirements, academic programs, and recent news, visit the official website: https://alhikmahuniversity.edu.ng. 

##Historical Background
Al-Hikmah University commenced academic activities in the 2005/2006 academic session with an initial enrollment of 70 students across three faculties: Humanities, Management Sciences, and Natural Sciences.  Since then, the university has expanded significantly, now boasting over 11,000 students and offering 50 undergraduate, 12 diploma, and 43 postgraduate programs across various faculties, including Agriculture, Education, Health Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Law, Management Sciences, and Natural and Applied Sciences.  

##Vision and Mission
Al-Hikmah University's vision is to serve as a forerunner in providing quality university education of international standard.  Its mission is to be an educational institution where sound academic knowledge blends with moral and spiritual excellence.  The university aims to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also morally upright, contributing positively to society. 

##Academic Excellence and Accreditation
The university places a strong emphasis on maintaining high academic standards.  All academic programs offered by Al-Hikmah University are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).  Notably, in the 2020 NUC accreditation exercise, 22 out of 23 programs presented by the university received full accreditation, reflecting the institution's commitment to academic excellence.  

##Campus and Facilities
Al-Hikmah University's main campus is located at Adewole Housing Estate along Adeta Road, Ilorin.  The campus features well-structured facilities, including modern lecture halls, a well-equipped library, and a spacious auditorium capable of accommodating up to 1,000 individuals.  The university also houses several centers aimed at enhancing learning and research, such as the Centre for ICT and Distance Learning, Centre for Islamic Heritage, and Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage, and International Cooperation.  

##Vice-Chancellor 
As of 2025, Prof. Noah Yusuf serves as the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University.  Born on June 26, 1964, Prof. Yusuf holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Ibadan.  He began his academic career at the University of Ilorin, where he rose through the ranks to become a Professor in 2012.  Prof. Yusuf has held various administrative positions, including Head of the Department of Sociology and Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies.  His extensive experience in academia and administration positions him to lead Al-Hikmah University towards achieving its vision and mission.  

##Faculties and Academic Programs
Al-Hikmah University offers a diverse range of programs through its several well-structured faculties, each designed to meet both national development goals and global academic standards. These faculties include:

Faculty of Agriculture: Offers programs in Agricultural Economics and Extension, Agronomy, and Animal Science aimed at improving food security and sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.

Faculty of Education: Provides degree programs in Educational Management, Guidance and Counselling, and Science Education, preparing professional educators with strong ethical grounding.

Faculty of Health Sciences: Recently established, it includes Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, and Public Health programs to meet the healthcare workforce demand.

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences: Home to disciplines such as Islamic Studies, History, Sociology, Mass Communication, and Political Science, this faculty addresses socio-cultural and political studies.

Faculty of Law: One of the highly sought-after faculties, offering LL.B. programs and preparing students for legal practice and advocacy.

Faculty of Management Sciences: Provides training in Accounting, Business Administration, and Economics, equipping students with critical business and entrepreneurial skills.

Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciencesp: Offers programs in Computer Science, Biochemistry, Physics, Microbiology, and more, supporting innovation and technological advancement.


##Postgraduate School
The School of Postgraduate Studies at Al-Hikmah University plays a pivotal role in advancing research and specialized education. It offers a variety of Master’s and Ph.D. programs across multiple disciplines, including Business Administration, Educational Management, Islamic Studies, and Computer Science. The postgraduate programs are designed to build high-level expertise, foster research, and contribute to national and international knowledge economies.

##Research and Innovation
Al-Hikmah University is committed to fostering a culture of research and innovation. Through its Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage and International Cooperation (CRIIC), the university engages in collaborative research projects, both locally and internationally. The institution also encourages staff and students to engage in problem-solving research that addresses societal and industrial challenges.

##Library and ICT Infrastructure
The university’s central library, named after its founder, is a hub of academic resources with thousands of volumes of books, journals, e-resources, and databases. It supports digital literacy through well-facilitated ICT infrastructure, including access to online academic resources, digital classrooms, and a Learning Management System (LMS) to enhance the teaching-learning process.

##Student Life and Support Services
Student welfare is a major priority at Al-Hikmah University. The institution offers well-maintained hostels, health care facilities, sporting and recreational activities, and guidance and counselling services. The Students’ Affairs Division ensures a vibrant campus life by supporting student unions, clubs, and religious groups that align with the university’s values.

##Faith-Based Learning Environment
As an Islamic faith-based institution, Al-Hikmah University integrates religious teachings and practices into its academic life. Students attend regular Islamic studies sessions and participate in ethical development programs. This approach aims to nurture individuals who are intellectually competent and morally responsible.

##Community Engagement and Outreach
The university actively contributes to its host communities through public lectures, educational outreach programs, and community development services. It also maintains partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations to promote education, health, and development initiatives across Kwara State and beyond.