The University of Ilorin Alumni Association has announced plans to honour its past presidents and distinguished alumni through the establishment of six endowed academic prizes and the construction of a 204-bed male hostel at the University of Ilorin.

The association said the initiatives were designed to immortalise the contributions of its past leaders while promoting academic excellence, leadership, service and commitment to humanity among current and future students of the institution.

According to a statement signed by the President of the association, Prof. Abdulrazaq Olubusuyi Kilani, the six academic prizes would be presented during the forthcoming convocation ceremony of the University of Ilorin.

The association said the endowment would run for 10 years, with the funds paid to the university for the proper implementation and administration of the prizes.

The prizes include the Prof. Olufemi David Durosaro Prize for the Overall Best Graduating Student, named after the pioneer President of the University of Ilorin Alumni Association; the Prof. A. Y. Abdulkareem Prize for the Best Male Graduating Student in Educational Management; and the Prof. Mrs. Rhoda Oduwaye Prize for the Best Female Graduating Student in Educational Management.

Others are the Prof. Depo Fakunle Prize for the Overall Best Graduating Student with Disability in the Faculty of Arts; the Late Alhaji Odedele Prize for the Best Male Graduating Student in History; and the Prof. Fatayi Bello Prize for the Best Female Graduating Student in History.

The association is also honouring Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, a former president of the association, through the development of a 204-bed male hostel at the University of Ilorin.

The foundation-laying ceremony for the hostel is scheduled for October 23, 2026.

The association said the project reflected its commitment to supporting the university's infrastructure, improving student welfare and creating a conducive environment for teaching, learning and research.

The alumni body expressed appreciation to the university management, members of the association, donors, partners and other stakeholders for their continued support towards advancing the ideals of the association and the development of the institution.

It reaffirmed its commitment to giving back to the University of Ilorin and sustaining a legacy of excellence, service and responsible leadership.