Professor Friday Okonofua has celebrated the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Lilian Imuentiyan Salami, on her 70th birthday, describing her as an illustrious academic and visionary leader whose contributions have left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s university system.
In a goodwill message marking Salami’s milestone birthday, Okonofua described the former vice-chancellor as an erudite, trailblazing, indefatigable and exemplary leader whose career reflects excellence in academia, leadership and service to humanity.
He said Salami’s tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin would remain an important chapter in the history of the institution, particularly for her contributions to academic development, infrastructure, research and institutional renewal.
According to Okonofua, Salami provided purposeful and inspiring leadership during her tenure, strengthening the academic enterprise and creating an environment that encouraged innovation and creativity.
He also commended her commitment to the core values of the university system, including academic freedom, inclusiveness, equity, universality and social justice.
Okonofua said Salami’s leadership went beyond physical development, noting that she inspired confidence, nurtured young academics and empowered both men and women within the university community.
He described her tenure as one of the significant periods of growth and transformation in the history of the University of Benin, adding that the foundations she laid would continue to benefit generations of academics and students.
The former UNIBEN vice-chancellor was also praised for demonstrating that compassionate leadership could be combined with administrative excellence.
“Her life at 70 reflects enduring excellence in academia, leadership and service,” Okonofua said, adding that her exemplary leadership had opened new possibilities for women in leadership within Nigeria’s university system.
While congratulating Salami, Okonofua extended his goodwill to her family, friends, colleagues, former students and other well-wishers who joined in marking the occasion.
He prayed for the celebrant to enjoy good health, peace, divine favour, fulfilment and many more years of impactful service to humanity.
Okonofua urged Nigerians and members of the academic community to celebrate Salami’s distinguished career and her contributions to higher education and national development.
Professor Lilian Imuentiyan Salami is a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin and has had a distinguished career in academia and university administration.
