# University of Ilorin

> federal university in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

**Wikidata**: [Q7895546](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7895546)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Ilorin)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/university-of-ilorin

## Summary
The University of Ilorin (Unilorin) is a federal university located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Established in August 1975, it is one of Nigeria's leading academic institutions, known for its motto "Character and Learning" and the nickname "Better by Far." The university is a member of prestigious organizations like the Association of African Universities and the International Association of Universities, and it offers a wide range of academic programs across multiple faculties.

## Key Facts
- **Inception**: Founded in August 1975.
- **Location**: Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, with coordinates approximately 8.482°N, 4.6716°E.
- **Motto**: "Character and Learning" (also referenced as "Probitas Doctrina").
- **Nicknames**: Unilorin, "Better by Far."
- **Student Population**: Approximately 50,000 students.
- **Employees**: Around 1,000 staff members.
- **Official Colors**: Green and white.
- **Website**: [https://www.unilorin.edu.ng/](https://www.unilorin.edu.ng/).
- **Memberships**:
  - Association of African Universities (inception: 1967).
  - International Association of Universities (inception: 1950).
  - KU8 Consortium of Institutions in Kwara.
- **Faculties and Departments**: Includes faculties such as Physical Sciences, Engineering, Education, Law, Veterinary Medicine, and more, with departments like Computer Science (established in 1975), Statistics, Telecommunication Science, and Civil Engineering.
- **Affiliated Institutions**:
  - University of Ilorin Institute of Education.
  - Unilorin Secondary School.
- **Research Site**: Jimba (associated with sugar research).
- **Notable Alumni and Affiliates**:
  - Zulu Sofola: First female professor of Theatre Arts in Nigeria.
  - Pius Adesanmi: Nigerian-Canadian professor and critic.
  - Nkem Owoh: Renowned Nigerian actor and comedian.
  - Abdulfatah Ahmed: Former Governor of Kwara State.
  - Sarah Alade: Nigerian economist.
- **Identifiers**:
  - ISNI: 0000000106259425.
  - GND ID: 5060293-7.
  - ROR ID: 032kdwk38.
  - VIAF ID: 159438819.
  - Grid ID: grid.412974.d.
  - Library of Congress Authority ID: n79136501.

## FAQs

**What is the University of Ilorin?**
The University of Ilorin is a federal university located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. It was established in August 1975 and is recognized for its academic excellence and motto, "Character and Learning."

**Where is the University of Ilorin located?**
The university is located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Its coordinates are approximately 8.482°N, 4.6716°E, and it spans areas like Ilorin-South and Tanke.

**What organizations is the University of Ilorin affiliated with?**
The University of Ilorin is a member of the Association of African Universities, the International Association of Universities, and the KU8 Consortium of Institutions in Kwara.

**What are some notable departments at the University of Ilorin?**
The university has a wide range of departments, including Computer Science (established in 1975), Statistics, Telecommunication Science, Civil Engineering, Veterinary Medicine, Law, and many others across faculties like Physical Sciences, Engineering, and Education.

**Who are some notable alumni of the University of Ilorin?**
Notable alumni include Zulu Sofola, the first female professor of Theatre Arts in Nigeria; Pius Adesanmi, a renowned Nigerian-Canadian professor; Nkem Owoh, a famous Nigerian actor; and Abdulfatah Ahmed, the former Governor of Kwara State.

**What is the student population of the University of Ilorin?**
The university has approximately 50,000 students.

**What are the official colors of the University of Ilorin?**
The official colors of the university are green and white.

## Why It Matters
The University of Ilorin plays a crucial role in Nigeria's higher education landscape. As a federal university, it provides accessible and high-quality education to thousands of students, contributing significantly to the intellectual and professional development of the nation. Its membership in prestigious international organizations like the Association of African Universities and the International Association of Universities underscores its global recognition and commitment to academic excellence. The university's diverse faculties and departments offer a broad spectrum of academic programs, fostering innovation and research across various fields. Additionally, its notable alumni, who have made significant contributions in politics, academia, arts, and other sectors, highlight the university's impact on society. The motto "Character and Learning" reflects its dedication to not only academic achievement but also the moral and ethical development of its students, making it a pivotal institution in shaping the future of Nigeria.

## Notable For
- **Firsts and Achievements**:
  - Home to Zulu Sofola, the first female professor of Theatre Arts in Nigeria.
  - Recognized for its motto "Character and Learning," emphasizing both academic and moral excellence.
- **Global Affiliations**:
  - Member of the Association of African Universities and the International Association of Universities.
  - Part of the KU8 Consortium of Institutions in Kwara, enhancing regional academic collaboration.
- **Diverse Academic Offerings**:
  - Offers a wide range of programs across faculties such as Physical Sciences, Engineering, Education, Law, and Veterinary Medicine.
  - Houses specialized departments like Computer Science (established in 1975), Telecommunication Science, and Veterinary Pathology.
- **Notable Alumni**:
  - Produced influential figures in various fields, including politics (Abdulfatah Ahmed), academia (Pius Adesanmi), arts (Nkem Owoh), and economics (Sarah Alade).
- **Research and Innovation**:
  - Associated with research sites like Jimba, focusing on areas such as sugar research.
  - Hosts the University of Ilorin Institute of Education, contributing to educational research and development.
- **Cultural and Social Impact**:
  - Nicknamed "Better by Far," reflecting its reputation for excellence.
  - Official colors green and white symbolize its identity and values.

## Body

### History and Establishment
The University of Ilorin was established in August 1975 as a federal university in Nigeria. Located in Ilorin, Kwara State, the institution was founded to provide high-quality education and contribute to the intellectual and professional development of the region and the nation. Over the years, it has grown to become one of Nigeria's leading universities, known for its academic rigor and commitment to excellence.

### Location and Campus
The university is situated in Ilorin, the capital city of Kwara State, Nigeria. Its campus spans several locations, including Ilorin-South and Tanke, with coordinates approximately 8.482°N, 4.6716°E. The university's physical presence in Ilorin has made it a central hub for education and research in the region.

### Academic Structure
The University of Ilorin is organized into multiple faculties and departments, offering a diverse range of academic programs. Some of the key faculties include:

- **Faculty of Physical Sciences**: Departments such as Statistics, Chemistry, Physics, Geology and Mineral Science, and Microbiology.
- **Faculty of Engineering**: Departments including Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Water Resources and Environmental Engineering.
- **Faculty of Education**: Departments like Chemistry Education, Educational Management, and Human Kinetics Education (Jumpology).
- **Faculty of Law**: Departments such as Public Law and Islamic Law.
- **Faculty of Veterinary Medicine**: Departments including Veterinary Pathology and Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry.
- **Faculty of Arts**: Departments like French, Linguistics, Performing Arts, and Religious Studies.
- **Faculty of Social Sciences**: Departments including Social Work and Psychology.
- **Faculty of Communication and Information Science**: Departments like Telecommunication Science, Computer Science, and Mass Communication.
- **Faculty of Environmental Sciences**: Departments such as Architectural Science and Quantity Surveying.

### Affiliated Institutions and Research
The University of Ilorin is affiliated with several institutions and research centers, enhancing its academic and research capabilities. Notable affiliations include:

- **University of Ilorin Institute of Education**: A research institute focused on advancing educational practices and policies.
- **Unilorin Secondary School**: A secondary school affiliated with the university, providing education at the secondary level.
- **Jimba Research Site**: Associated with sugar research, contributing to agricultural and scientific advancements.

### Memberships and Affiliations
The university is a member of several prestigious organizations, reflecting its global standing and commitment to academic excellence:

- **Association of African Universities (AAU)**: Founded in 1967, the AAU is a leading organization promoting higher education and research in Africa.
- **International Association of Universities (IAU)**: Established in 1950, the IAU is a global network of higher education institutions.
- **KU8 Consortium of Institutions in Kwara**: A regional consortium fostering collaboration among institutions in Kwara State.

### Notable Alumni and Affiliates
The University of Ilorin has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:

- **Zulu Sofola**: The first female professor of Theatre Arts in Nigeria, known for her pioneering work in Nigerian literature and theatre.
- **Pius Adesanmi**: A renowned Nigerian-Canadian professor, critic, and writer, whose work has had a significant impact on African literature and cultural studies.
- **Nkem Owoh**: A famous Nigerian actor, comedian, and musician, known for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry (Nollywood).
- **Abdulfatah Ahmed**: Former Governor of Kwara State, who has played a key role in the political landscape of the region.
- **Sarah Alade**: A prominent Nigerian economist, contributing to economic policy and research.
- **Adewale Abati**: A web engineer, developer advocate, and open-source contributor, known for his work in technology and education.
- **Laolu Senbanjo**: A Nigerian visual artist, musician, and former human rights attorney, recognized for his unique artistic style and cultural contributions.

### Identifiers and Recognition
The University of Ilorin is recognized by various international identifiers and databases, underscoring its global presence and academic standing:

- **ISNI**: 0000000106259425.
- **GND ID**: 5060293-7.
- **ROR ID**: 032kdwk38.
- **VIAF ID**: 159438819.
- **Grid ID**: grid.412974.d.
- **Library of Congress Authority ID**: n79136501.
- **World Higher Education Database ID**: IAU-020195.

### Campus Life and Culture
The University of Ilorin is known for its vibrant campus life and cultural activities. The university's motto, "Character and Learning," reflects its commitment to both academic excellence and the moral development of its students. The official colors, green and white, symbolize the university's identity and values. The nickname "Better by Far" highlights its reputation for excellence and its standing as a leading institution in Nigeria.

### Contributions to Society
The University of Ilorin has made significant contributions to society through its academic programs, research initiatives, and notable alumni. Its graduates have excelled in various fields, including politics, academia, arts, and economics, making a positive impact on Nigeria and beyond. The university's commitment to research and innovation, as seen in its affiliation with research sites like Jimba, further underscores its role in advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges.

### Future Prospects
As a leading federal university in Nigeria, the University of Ilorin continues to evolve and expand its academic offerings and research capabilities. Its membership in global organizations and its commitment to excellence position it well for future growth and impact. The university's focus on character development alongside academic achievement ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.unn.edu.ng)
2. [Source](http://www.unilorin.edu.ng)
3. GRID Release 2017-01-10
4. [Source](https://www.britannica.com/place/Ilorin)
5. [Source](https://educatedglobally.com/university-of-ilorin/)
6. [Emulate ideals of KU8 Consortium of Institutions in Kwara. Vanguard (Nigeria). 2023](https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/08/emulate-ideals-of-ku8-consortium-of-institutions-in-kwara/)
7. [Source](https://www.aau.org/subs/membership/)
8. [Source](http://unilorinupdate.blogspot.com/p/unilorin.html?m=1)
9. [Source](https://guardian.ng/opinion/the-unilorin-better-by-far-basket-and-one-bad-apple/)
10. [Source](https://www.unirank.org/ng/uni/university-of-ilorin/)
11. GRID Release 2015-12-14
12. GRID Release 2016-12-06
13. Quora
14. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
15. [Source](https://www.africabizinfo.com/NG/unilorin-sugar-research-institute)
16. [Source](http://www.unn.edu.ng/)
17. Microsoft Academic Knowledge Graph
18. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
19. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)