Professor Babatunde Adedibu, the immediate past provost of the Redeemed Christian Bible College, formally handed over the headship of the institution to the newly appointed Provost, Dr. Alaba Oti, at a brief handing over ceremony held on the first day of September, 2023, at the institution’s old Chapel Hall.
Delivering his speech, Adedibu gave thanks to God for the gift of life and for His faithfulness over the years he served as a Provost.
He said, “I want to thank the Almighty God because today is a reality of bowing out with dignity and honour.
“I want to thank the Almighty God for the perseverance and the grace, the fortitude to hold even a ship when the storm was fiery. I thank God because the Almighty God made it possible for every one of us seated here today to witness a day like this. In the manner of the history of our denomination, and also in the history of the Bible College, this will be a temperance successive administration that would be led by the full-time student of the Redeemed Christian Bible College.
“I’m particularly grateful to the faculty for your support, for your endearing up and patience being a very, very demanding man when it comes to achieving of objectives.”
Adedibu, who paid tributes to some departed officials of the institution, like late deputy provost, Pastor Oluwageshi Shetta Bay, Pastor and Pastor (Mrs.) Ajayi Adeola and Bro. Femi Adekola, rejoiced with the incoming administration for the laudable foundation that he is leaving behind.
The Professor expressed his appreciation to every member of the non-administrative and non-academic staff of the college for their patience, particularly during the time of re-structuring of the college.
“I want to thank the likes of the members of the re-structuring committees in the persons led by Professor Dele Balogun and a distinguished Professor, Olu Makinde Odugbemi, as well as Professor Dairo Afolorunsho.
“These men of honour and dignity were responsible for the repositioning of this college with a developing blueprint to be a distinguished outlet of two reputable universities in Nigeria recognized by National Universities Commission. With all their accomplishment of services to God and humanity, the repositioning of the college became a reality and by His grace, we cannot talk too much but we give thanks today because the records are there for those who want to search for it.”
Responding, the new provost, Dr. Alaba Oti, acknowledged the exceptional leadership of his predecessor, Professor Babatunde Adedibu, who he said is a friend and brother.
He said Adedibu has laid a solid foundation for academic excellence and spiritual growth of the institution while promising to build on the foundation and taking the college to even greater heights.
He said, “I’m here this morning with a heart filled with gratitude to the Almighty God and humility as I accept the position of the Provost of RCBC, this highly esteemed Redeemed Christian Bible College. I’m truly honoured to be chosen to serve in this capacity and I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead of me.”
Oti, who also appreciated the contribution of the faculty and all staff members toward the growth of the institution, said: “To the faculty members, I extend my gratitude for your dedication in teaching and mentoring students, your commitment to academic rigour and your passion for equipping young minds with knowledge and wisdom is commendable. I look forward, by the grace of God, to collaborating with each and every one of you as we continue to nurture and shape the next generation of Christian leaders.
“To all members of staff, academic and non-academic, and to all students who are present here, you’re the heart and soul of this institution; your quest for knowledge and desire to grow in faith inspire us all. I’m here to support you, to listen to your concerns and to create an environment that fosters your personal and spiritual development. Together, I believe God we’ll strive for excellence in post academic pursuits and character for mission.”
The new provost who expressed his sincere appreciation to the Almighty God, deeply appreciated the spiritual support of the RCCG General Overseer and Mother-in-Israel, Pastor & Pastor (Mrs.) E. A. Adeboye, and the Executive Chairman of RCBC Board of Governors, Pastor Ezekiel Odeyemi.
Present at the occasion is a member of RCCG Governing Council, Pastor David Kuo and other family friends of the institution.
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