Last Updated on April 22, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Raymond Osemene
The immediate past Chairperson of the Publications Committee, Prof. Helen Bodunde, today, April 20, 2026, formally handed over the leadership of the Committee to Prof. Bosede Sotiloye, concluding a tenure marked by significant reforms, expanded responsibilities, and institutional growth.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Prof. Bodunde expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve, describing her tenure as both challenging and rewarding. She noted that the establishment of the Publications Committee, which assumed responsibility for coordinating Inaugural Lectures from a former ceremonial structure, significantly broadened its mandate and operational scope.
Reflecting on her time in office, she described the coordination of Inaugural Lectures as a complex and demanding process that goes beyond compiling academic outputs, requiring lecturers to identify research niches and present years of scholarly work in a coherent format.
During her over four-year tenure, the Committee successfully coordinated 51 Inaugural Lectures and developed procedural manuals to enhance efficiency. She also introduced key innovations, including the “Inaugural Lecture 3.0” model, which incorporates broader evaluation criteria such as teaching, supervision, administrative contributions, and overall societal impact.
Prof. Bodunde further disclosed that the Committee facilitated the review of academic books for promotion purposes and secured institutional approval for reviewer remuneration, describing the initiative as a notable improvement in the system.
She acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, for providing the enabling environment and autonomy required to effectively manage the Committee, while also commending members and reviewers for their dedication and cooperation.
Urging continued collaboration, the outgone Chairperson called on members to support the new leadership in sustaining the Committee’s achievements and standards.
In her Acceptance Remarks, the new Chairperson, Prof. Bosede Sotiloye, commended Prof. Bodunde’s leadership, describing it as exemplary and impactful. She emphasised the importance of teamwork in achieving organisational goals and pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by her predecessor.
Members of the Committee also lauded Prof. Bodunde’s tenure, describing her leadership as visionary and instrumental to the Committee’s progress.
