The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), has told the newly admitted students of the institution that they could ensure the realisation of their goals by obeying the rules and regulations of the University and shunning all social vices.

Prof. Ambali, who gave the advice while addressing the fresh students during their matriculation ceremony last Friday (January 29, 2015), said, "My dear students, your successful sojourn in this University is based on two factors: doing what is right and eschewing what is wrong".

According to the Vice-Chancellor, "What is right includes being serious with your studies as well as obeying the rules and regulations of the University. What is wrong on the other hand includes violating the extant University rules and engaging in unbecoming conduct". Prof. Ambali told the 11,057 matriculating students that "the period between matriculation and graduation is short". He counseled, "So, it is better you pick the race early so that you will reach your destination with success and happiness. In this regard, you should motivate and encourage yourselves. There is no one who can set a limit to your achievements except you".

The Vice-Chancellor, whose address was entitled, "Character and Learning", further told the new students, "If you are target-driven and goal-oriented, your average of four years in the University will lay a solid foundation for your future. Interestingly, the future is even now. Therefore, set your mind to excel and by the grace of God, excellence shall be yours". He, however, pointed out that the University places a high premium on character "such that it even supercedes learning", adding that "the University motto, "Probitas Doctrina", or simply "character and learning", emphasizes character because without character, all learning is futile".

Prof. Ambali, therefore, advised the fresh students to remain good ambassadors of their families and communities while also remaining steadfast and serious in carrying out their primary assignment, which is studying. The Vice Chancellor disclosed that a total number of 11,057 students were admitted by the institution this year out of the 103,000 candidates that applied to the University as First Choice in the 2015/2016 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME).

"I felicitate with you and your parents that you are able to make it despite all the odds of the examinations", Prof. Ambali told the new students, saying, "You passed the O' Level examinations and you succeeded in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations and the post-UTME screening. May you continue to succeed in your future endeavours."

The Vice-Chancellor, however, enjoined the new students to ensure that they make positive marks as they journey through the University. He said, "This institution offers you several opportunities to distinguish yourselves academically and otherwise. Some of you will become sports stars and write your names in gold. Some of you will also become entrepreneurs, applying part of what you learn profitably even while still in training. In all these, hard work, diligence and determination are required".

Urging the students to "remember God", Prof. Ambali told them, "If you put God first, other things will fall in place and your efforts will be blessed". A major highlight of the ceremony was the administering of the Matriculating Oath on the new students by the Registrar of the University, Mr. Emmanuel Dada Obafemi, who also advised them to always abide by the rules and regulations of the University.

Mr. Obafemi urged the new students to accord utmost respect to all dos and don'ts of the University and ensure they eschew all forms of illicit acts while facing their study squarely in their own interest. The occasion was attended by all Principal Officers of the University as well as the Deans of the various Faculties and Directors of Academic and non-academic units. Earlier in the week, a three-day orientation programme was held for the freshers. In their separate lectures during the programme, the University Chaplain and Deputy Chief Imam of the University of Ilorin, Dr. A. Ogunkunle and Dr Nasir Abdulsalam, respectively advised the students to be religiously tolerant and see themselves as one so as to live happily and peacefully on campus.

In his own speech, Mr. Leke Owolabi, who represented the Chairman of the University Dress Code Committee, advised the students to strictly abide by the laws of the University, warning that stringent action would be taken against any student that violates any of the University rules and regulations. Mr. Owolabi urged the students to shun all anti-social behaviour such as cultism, examination malpractices, keeping bad company, joining unregistered associations on campus, indecent dressing, and engaging in physical combat, among other illicit acts.

Other top University officials who also admonished the new students on good conduct included the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Adetayo Talabi; the Deputy Registrar, Academic Support Services, Mrs R. A. Okojie; and the representative of Chief Security Officer.