In a remarkable display of academic refinement and cultural solidarity, the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) recently hosted the Faculty of Arts/Humanities Scholars Association of Nigerian Universities (FAHSANU) for its 2025 International Conference. Against the glittering backdrop of scholarship and tradition, the university honoured outstanding contributors to the arts, humanities, and broader society. The event was held at FUOYE’s Theatre and Media Arts Department Playhouse, and it unfolded with both ceremony and warmth, showcasing how deeply embedded Arts and Humanities are in Nigeria’s educational fabric.
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Honouring Icons Across Fields
The theme of this year’s FAHSANU conference was “Arts and Humanities in a Changing World”, a timely reflection on how the disciplines remain relevant amid global shifts. During the event, FUOYE conferred several categories of awards, recognising individuals who have made remarkable contributions to academia, public service, royalty, and cultural patronage.
- Platinum Awards were bestowed on five distinguished Nigerians: Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Princess Olabisi Adanri, Oluwo-Nla Solagbade Popoola, Onímò (His Grace) Araba Famuagun, and Omooba Engr. Shyllon — each celebrated for their exceptional influence on national life and culture.
- Gold Awards went to Sir Victor Olusegun Aigbogun, Hon. Femi Omosanya, Hon. Idowu Otetubi, Mr Victory Otoba, and Hon. Babatunde Dada, in recognition of their steady support and work for the growth of arts and humanities in Nigeria.
- Beyond these, Fellowship and Lifetime Memberships were granted to leading academics: Prof. B.T. Opoola (DVC-Administration, FUOYE), Prof. Rasaki Ojo Bakare (theatrical scholar), Prof. Dorothy Oluwagbemi-Jacob (pioneer FAHSANU president), Dr Edward Ugbada Adie, Hon. Aisha Adamu-Augie, and Prof. Hyginus Ekwuazi — all of whom have played pivotal roles in strengthening FAHSANU’s mission.
This distinguished roll call underscored the linkage between scholarship, leadership, and social influence — a vivid reminder that the Humanities shape not just minds, but societies.
Transition of Leadership and Cultural Expression
The conference also marked a smooth transition in FAHSANU’s leadership. A new executive team was elected to guide the association for the next two years: Prof. Bifatife Olufemi Adeseye now serves as President, Prof. Idowu Kojisotito as Vice President, Dr. Kehinde Adabembe as South-West Coordinator, Dr. Nesta Andy-Philip as Secretary General, Prof. Nneoma Ugorji as Treasurer, and a host of others taking key roles across the board. Prof. Adeseye, in his acceptance speech, spoke passionately about leveraging the association’s diverse membership to promote unity, scholarship, and relevance in the modern academic landscape. He also paid tribute to his roots — dedicating his victory to his father and a mentor who encouraged him to master a trade alongside his formal education..
Adding colour and resonance to the scholarly discourse, students from the Theatre and Media Arts Department staged a dance drama titled “ALAJOTA”. Written by Yeside Dosumu-Lawal and choreographed by Dr Tosin Tume, the performance symbolised a fusion of tradition and innovation, illustrating how the arts can bridge generational divides and inspire deeper reflection.
FUOYE’s Role and Broader Impact
For FUOYE, hosting FAHSANU 2025 was more than a ceremonial duty — it was a statement. Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, the university signalled its commitment not only to academic rigour but also to cultural leadership and community engagement. By bringing together humanities scholars from across Nigerian universities, FUOYE affirmed its status as a hub for ideas, tradition, and innovation.
The event offered a platform for scholars to present cutting-edge research in their fields, while also acknowledging the importance of stewardship — both intellectual and cultural — in a rapidly changing world. For many in attendance, the conference revitalised a sense of purpose: that the Arts and Humanities are not relics of the past, but powerful agents for contemporary transformation.
Significance for the Future of Humanities in Nigeria
FAHSANU 2025 at FUOYE carried multiple messages: that intellectual excellence deserves recognition; that leadership in the humanities must remain dynamic; and that cultural expressions — such as dance, drama — remain essential in grounding scholarship in lived experience. The awards and election of new officers should not be seen merely as formalities. Rather, they represent a renewal — a recommitment — to the idea that the Arts and Humanities are as crucial today as ever.
In an era of technological disruption and social change, this gathering may well be remembered not just for its pomp but for its deep affirmation: that universities, scholars, and culture custodians must work together to keep the human spirit alive.
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