Otitoju Femi
It was a momentous and emotionally charged occasion as the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) community, on Monday, October 13, 2025, held an elaborate sent-forth ceremony in honour of its outgoing University Librarian, Professor Isaac Oluwadare Busayo.
Professor Busayo, who completed his meritorious tenure is set to assume a new leadership role at the newly established Federal University, Iyin-Ekiti.
The event, held at the University Library, drew the presence of top university management, academic staff, family members, friends, and well-wishers.
They were all united in celebration of a man widely described as diligent, firm, visionary, and beacon of excellence.
In his keynote address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, praised Professor Busayo’s exceptional leadership and dedication to FUOYE’s vision, describing him as “an administrator par excellence,” who served with integrity and uncommon commitment.
He said: “It is my pleasure to stand before the great people of FUOYE to celebrate our outgoing Librarian, Professor Isaac Oluwadare Busayo.
“You are leaving today for another assignment; and this is possible because you are diligent and hardworking. Let excellence be your watchword wherever you go.”
He, however, urged all present to reflect on their own contributions to humanity and the university community, adding that “a day is coming where everybody will account for everything they have done whether for humanity or lipservice, you will reap it.”
In his humble response and acknowledgment, Professor Busayo, visibly moved by the outpouring of love and accolades, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the FUOYE community for the unexpected honour.
He said: “I was caught unaware by this arrangement. I thought this programme would be an in-house event. But this is truly honourable. I thank God that everything ended well; no illness, no evil occurrence. To God be all the glory.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to continuous service and excellence, promising that his new role would still carry the spirit and values of FUOYE.
The ceremony featured a series of glowing tributes from colleagues, family members, and other dignitaries who have worked closely with Professor Busayo throughout his distinguished career.
From the Library Staff, the Acting Librarian, Dr. Olajide Olabode, spoke on behalf of the Library staff, describing the celebrant as “a perfectionist with high standards.”
He said: “He is a fastidious person. You must stand your ground to please him. But he has guided us well, and we are grateful. Not many principal officers complete their tenure in FUOYE, but he did with dignity.”
Former Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Olubanke Bankole, traced her 25-year academic journey with Professor Busayo across three institutions — University of Ibadan, OAU Ile-Ife, and FUOYE, highlighting his scholarly rigor and open-minded leadership.
She said: “He is like an encyclopedia. He reads deeply and is passionate about scholarship. He supervised projects, participated in accreditation, and left a lasting legacy.”
The Acting Dean of the Faculty, of Education, Dr. Adeniran, called him a mentor and model of integrity.
He said: “He never left work for others. He worked with us. He encouraged us to publish. He is prayerful and dedicated. That’s why success followed him.”
In his goodwill message, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, the DVC SPRIL, praised Prof. Busayo’s discipline and resilience:
According to him, “he’s fair, firm, and professionally sound. You don’t take his office for granted. He raised many professionals. He has lived a life worthy of emulation.”
Also speaking, the DVC Administration, Professor Tajudeen Opoola, appreciated God for the grace given to Prof. Busayo:
He said: “God helped you to land well in FUOYE and He will help you land well in Iyin-Ekiti. I am especially grateful because this is not a valedictory with a coffin but one of honour and celebration.”
On behalf of the family, his son Dr. Emmanuel Busayo, described his father as “a mentor who trained us all to be successful.”
He went on: “He trained me up to PhD level. He is versatile, scandal-free, and balanced family and work so well.”
His wife, Mrs. Iyabode Dupe Busayo, also gave thanks.
She said: “This family started 35 years ago. We faced many challenges, but God has helped us. My husband loves us dearly. I thank you all for supporting him.”
In his vote of thanks, Professor Busayo called for forgiveness and reflection among colleagues, saying “if I have offended anyone during my job, please forgive me. Take your work seriously, because a day of reward is coming. Thank you all for the gifts and the love.”
Professor Isaac Busayo, Born on December 10, 1961, in Ogotun-Ekiti.
Professor Isaac Oluwadare Busayo is a seasoned Librarian and scholar. His academic journey took him through Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and the University of Ibadan, where he earned multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Media Resources Management.
He began his career in 1987 and has served in various capacities at institutions such as Ekiti State University, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, University of Education, Ikere-Ekiti, FUNAAB, and finally FUOYE, where he rose to become the University Librarian in 2020.
With over 40 scholarly publications, Prof. Busayo is respected locally and internationally in the field of Library and Information Science.
He is married to Mrs. Iyabode Dupe Busayo, and the union is blessed with children and grandchildren.
As he transitions to a new role at Federal University, Iyin-Ekiti, the FUOYE community looks forward to hearing of his continued impact and success.
The sent-forth ceremony was more than a celebration. It was a testament to a life of discipline, scholarship, service, and excellence.
And as echoed repeatedly during the event, “Let excellence be your watchword.”
Photo Credit: Nifesimi Ogungbe
