Professor Olajide O. Akanji of the Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan (UI), has emerged as the new Dean of the Faculty of the Social Science following the faculty’s deanery election.
Professor Akanji defeated Professor Aderemi Ismail Alarape in the keenly contested election to secure the position. He is expected to assume office on August 1, 2026, as the new Dean of the Faculty of the Social Science in accordance with the university’s transition schedule.
A renowned political scientist, Professor Akanji is widely recognised for his scholarly contributions in the areas of security studies, conflict and peace studies, governance, human rights, and African politics.
He holds a Bachelor of Social Science degree in Political Science from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and obtained both his Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Political Science from the University of Ibadan.
Over the years, Professor Akanji has built an impressive academic career through teaching, research, and scholarly publications. At the University of Ibadan, he has taught courses in political theory, international relations, security studies, conflict resolution, and African politics.
His research interests span security and conflict studies, governance, peacebuilding, terrorism, human rights, and regional security in Africa. He has also published extensively on issues relating to insecurity, democracy, and governance in Nigeria and across the African continent.
His emergence as Dean is expected to further strengthen the Faculty of Social Sciences’ commitment to academic excellence, research, and institutional development at the University of Ibadan.
