Overview and History of Landmark University, Omu-Aran,

 
Established in 2011, Landmark University is a faith-based private institution located in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria. Driven by its motto, "Breaking New Grounds," the university is committed to pioneering agricultural transformation and academic excellence in Nigeria. Landmark University was founded by the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners’ Chapel, under the leadership of Dr. David Oyedepo, who serves as the Chancellor.
The university is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs tailored to national development, especially in agrarian disciplines. The official website is www.lmu.edu.ng.

##University Rankings and Recognition
Despite being relatively young, Landmark University has rapidly gained recognition as one of Nigeria's top private universities. It was ranked among the top 5 universities in Nigeria by Webometrics in 2014, just three years after its establishment. The university is widely praised for its strict discipline, academic excellence, serene environment, and innovation in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Its growing list of national and international collaborations, particularly in agricultural research and technology, continues to solidify its reputation as a forward-thinking institution. Landmark’s model of education, which integrates faith, practical skills, and leadership development, has become a benchmark among faith-based universities in West Africa.

##History and Founding
Landmark University was granted a full operational license by the NUC on March 7, 2011, and officially opened its doors to students on March 21, 2011. The university was established as a response to Nigeria’s over-dependence on oil and the need for a return to sustainable agriculture. The vision was to drive a new generation of agriculturally minded, morally sound, and intellectually excellent graduates.

The university began with a strong emphasis on agricultural transformation, both in education and practice. This vision was further reinforced by the acquisition of over 1,000 hectares of farmland across several locations for research and food production. Today, Landmark serves as a model for agrarian-based tertiary education in Africa.

Accreditation and Academic Structure
Landmark University is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), ensuring compliance with national and global academic standards. The university is organized into several colleges, each offering specialized academic programs:

  
College of Agricultural Sciences  
College of Engineering  
College of Pure and Applied Sciences  
College of Business and Social Sciences  
College of Arts and Humanities  
Each college is structured to offer students a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The Entrepreneurial Development Studies (EDS) program is compulsory for all students, equipping them with hands-on skills like baking, tailoring, fish farming, and carpentry to foster self-reliance.

##Leadership and Administration
Landmark University operates under the World Mission Agency, with Dr. David Oyedepo serving as Chancellor and spiritual overseer. The university has had a succession of visionary leaders who have each contributed to its rapid development:

Prof. Matthew Ajayi (Pioneer VC, 2011–2014)

Prof. Joseph Afolayan (2014–2015)

Prof. Aize Obayan (2015–2017)

Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju (2017–2021)

Prof. Kolawole Ajanaku (2021–Present)

##Notable Alumni and Faculty
While Landmark University is still developing its alumni base due to its relatively recent establishment, its graduates are beginning to make notable impacts, particularly in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and technology. Some highlights include:

Agropreneurs: Many alumni have launched successful agribusiness ventures, applying the practical agricultural knowledge gained from their time at Landmark.

Tech and Business Leaders: A growing number of graduates are securing positions in fintech, banking, agritech, and public service sectors.

Research and Academics: Alumni are also engaging in advanced studies and contributing to academic research in Nigerian and foreign universities.

As the university matures, it is expected that many of its alumni will rise to national and international prominence.

##Campus and Facilities
Landmark University boasts a purpose-built, well-landscaped campus that offers a serene and structured environment conducive to learning and personal development. Facilities include:

A modern library with over 1,700 seating capacity

Fully equipped science and engineering laboratories

ICT centers and multimedia classrooms

State-of-the-art lecture halls and administrative blocks

On-campus medical center and student hostels

Mechanized and manually operated farms for practical agricultural training

The architectural layout of the campus emphasizes green spaces and cleanliness, echoing the university’s emphasis on discipline and order.

##Community Engagement and Development
Landmark University is deeply committed to societal transformation through community service and outreach. Education at LMU is not confined to the classroom; students and faculty are encouraged to engage with local communities through:

  
Agricultural Extension Projects: Students work with local farmers to share best practices in crop and animal production, boosting local food security.  Health Awareness and Support: Through health sciences collaborations, LMU runs periodic health campaigns and free medical services in host communities.

Educational Support and Literacy Campaigns: The university donates books, offers free tutoring, and hosts career talks in nearby secondary schools.

Partnerships with NGOs and Government Bodies: LMU collaborates with organizations like IITA and NASRDA to implement development projects in areas such as youth empowerment and climate-smart agriculture.

Environmental Initiatives: Landmark emphasizes environmental stewardship through waste management projects, tree planting, and climate awareness programs. 

##Research and Innovation
Research is central to Landmark University’s mission. The university promotes a vibrant research culture aimed at solving real-world problems, especially in agriculture and sustainability. Key initiatives include:

Collaborative projects with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA)

Funding of faculty-led research projects in biotechnology, soil science, renewable energy, and agribusiness

Student research exhibitions and faculty publications in top-tier academic journals

Hosting of academic conferences and symposiums on food security, innovation, and sustainable development


##Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
Life at Landmark University is structured but engaging. The university fosters an environment of holistic development through a mix of academics, spirituality, and co-curricular activities. Students participate in:

  
Spiritual Development: Mandatory chapel services and Christian fellowship  

Entrepreneurial Clubs: Focused on business, agriculture, and technology  

Student Government: Elections and leadership training within the student council  

Cultural Events and Sports: Drama, debates, football, basketball, and inter-departmental competitions  

The institution’s emphasis on leadership, integrity, and entrepreneurship sets it apart from conventional universities.

##Entrepreneurial Development and Employability
One of Landmark University’s defining features is its strong entrepreneurial ethos. All students undergo compulsory Entrepreneurial Development Studies (EDS), which covers:

Practical Skills: Tailoring, baking, fish farming, and soap making

Business Development: Marketing, business planning, and customer service

Internship Opportunities: Students are placed in farms, factories, or businesses for hands-on experience

Incubation Support: The university supports startup ideas through mentorship and competitions


This focus ensures that Landmark graduates are equipped to either excel in their careers or build thriving businesses of their own.

##Partnerships and Collaborations
Landmark University continues to expand its network of institutional partnerships for mutual growth and global relevance. These partnerships support research, curriculum development, and student exchange programs.

Key partners include:

International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)

National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA)

Local governments and private agricultural firms

International universities and research centers


Through these collaborations, LMU is building a globally recognized academic brand anchored on innovation, faith, and service.