In a profound Christmas message, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, SAN, has called upon the Christian faithful to move beyond seasonal celebration and actively embody the core virtue of compassion. This call, issued in a statement by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, frames compassion not merely as a festive sentiment but as a foundational principle for building a thriving academic community and society.
By: Mujidat Oyewole
Ilorin, Dec. 25, 2025 (NAN) – Prof. Egbewole’s message elevates the traditional Christmas greeting into a compelling charge for personal and communal transformation. He urged Christians to “recommit to nurturing knowledge, compassion, and progress,” presenting a powerful triad where compassion acts as the essential bridge between intellectual pursuit (knowledge) and tangible betterment (progress).
“The VC urged Christians to reflect on the timeless lessons of Christmas, as it promotes hope and fosters the spirit of generosity and togetherness,” the statement read. This reflection, he implies, should yield actionable change. The “spirit of generosity” extends beyond material giving to include generosity of spirit—patience, understanding, and a willingness to support colleagues and students in their struggles.
Providing critical context, Prof. Egbewole anchored this call in the administrative ethos of the University. He assured that management “would continue to treat members of the University community and the public with respect and fairness, regardless of religious affiliation.” This pledge underscores that the virtue of compassion must be institutionalized, creating an environment where diversity is respected and every individual feels valued. His specific assurance regarding the welfare and well-being of staff and students highlights compassion’s practical dimension: it must translate into policies and actions that safeguard people’s dignity and needs.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that Christmas is a time for “merriment and gratitude to God Almighty for his boundless mercies.” However, he quickly pivoted to the responsibility this grace entails, urging Christians to “endeavour to be Christlike in the totality of their lives.” This phrase, “totality of their lives,” is significant. It challenges the compartmentalization of faith, suggesting that Christ-like compassion should inform conduct in lecture halls, administrative meetings, research collaborations, and everyday interactions on campus—not just within church walls.
In congratulating the Christian community, Prof. Egbewole also expressed gratitude to staff and students for their “hard work and commitment.” This linkage is vital; it frames a compassionate community as one that recognizes and appreciates effort, thereby fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared purpose. His wish for a New Year “filled with purpose and achievements” thus becomes a collective aspiration, achievable only through a supportive and compassionate environment.
Ultimately, this Christmas message from the Unilorin helm transcends holiday platitudes. It re-frames compassion as the indispensable catalyst for a truly progressive and harmonious academic ecosystem. It is a call to make the empathy and love central to the Christmas story a lived, year-round reality that strengthens the fabric of the university and radiates outward into the wider society. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
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Edited by Sandra Umeh
