The University of Ibadan (UI) has appointed and received its first female Bursar in its 78-year history, with Mrs Mariam Adetoun Zakariyah, formally assuming office on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Zakariyah assumed office as the university’s new Bursar at a ceremony attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, and members of the university community.
Describing the appointment as a significant milestone, Adebowale said the emergence of the first female Bursar reflected the University of Ibadan’s enduring tradition, institutional culture and commitment to excellence.
UI Outgoing VC, Professor Kayode Adebowale and newly Apponted Bursar, Mrs Mariam Adetoun Zakariyah
The Vice-Chancellor said the foundation of the university was laid on an enduring commitment to excellence, adding that the institution had sustained a tradition of smooth transitions as one of the sources of its institutional strength.
He commended the outgoing Bursar, Mr Adewuyi Popoola, for maintaining the university’s financial stability throughout his tenure.
Adebowale said the process that produced Zakariyah was fair and free from gender or religious bias.
According to him, the University of Ibadan’s reputation extends beyond its immediate environment, with its activities rooted in excellence, integrity and service.
He said the university’s standing was not determined solely by its physical structures but also by the manner in which it conducted its affairs and upheld sound institutional values.
Adebowale described Zakariyah’s appointment as another milestone in the university’s history, noting that its enduring foundation had sustained its reputation as Nigeria’s first university.
Speaking after assuming office, the new Bursar expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for ensuring that the appointment process was fair and seamless.
Zakariyah pledged to deploy her expertise to justify the confidence reposed in her and lead the Bursary towards effective service delivery.
She also solicited the continued support of the university management in the discharge of her responsibilities.
The Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ibrahim Olatunde Uthman, and the Chaplain of the Chapel of the Resurrection, The Venerable Dr Victor Idowu Oladele, offered prayers for a smooth transition and a successful tenure for the new Bursar.
