Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has defended the two-year tenure extension granted to the Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Prof. Clement Adebooye, saying the decision was based on the institution’s exceptional growth and sustained academic excellence.

The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, spoke during the 16th convocation ceremony of UNIOSUN at the university’s main campus in Osogbo.

Adeleke said the extension followed strategic consultations and was rooted in the overall best interest of the university, describing Adebooye’s administration as one that had transformed the institution through significant academic and infrastructural achievements.

According to the governor, UNIOSUN has recorded unprecedented physical development over the past four years, with 40 major building projects constructed and commissioned across its campuses.

He added that the university has also completed more than 30 complementary projects, including renovations, solar power installations, procurement of equipment and other improvements designed to enhance teaching, learning and administrative efficiency.

“In August this year alone, I commissioned the ultra-modern FIFA-standard Sports Complex, the 3-in-1 Science Laboratory Complex, and two landmark lecture theatres,” Adeleke said.

The governor also praised the university’s record of industrial harmony, noting that UNIOSUN has not lost an academic session in the last five years and has consistently graduated students as scheduled.

He further highlighted staff welfare, stating that the university became the second state-owned institution in Nigeria to fully implement the 2025 Federal Government–Staff Union agreement, describing it as evidence of responsible and responsive leadership.

Adeleke explained that the tenure extension will take effect from January 4, 2027, following an amendment to the Osun State University Law by the Osun State House of Assembly earlier this month, providing the legal framework for the extension.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting academic excellence and ensuring UNIOSUN continues its trajectory of growth, innovation and quality higher education.