The Association of African Universities (AAU) has bestowed an esteemed Award of Excellence upon Emeritus Prof. Peter Okebukola, the immediate-past Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). The award recognizes Prof. Okebukola's invaluable contributions to the delivery of quality higher education in West Africa.

The prestigious ceremony took place at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort Conference Centre in Namibia, as part of the activities marking the Conference of Rectors, Vice-Chancellors, and Presidents of African Universities, known as REViP2023.

Prof. Okebukola was specially singled out and honored by the AAU as the "Higher Education Ambassador for West Africa" due to his outstanding, innovative, and exemplary role in advancing the provision of quality higher education in the region.

The conference, themed "Advancing Excellence in African Higher Education," was officially inaugurated by Hon. Dr. Itah-Kandji Murangi, Namibia's Minister of Higher Education, Innovation, and Technology, in the capital city.

Attending the conference with a high-powered team from NOUN was Prof. Isaac Buswat, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration, along with other esteemed members including Prof. Ahmed Njiddah, the Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, and Prof. Grace Jokthan, the Centre Director of the Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL). Their collective efforts provided the necessary support structure for Team NOUN in sharing this remarkable achievement.

The recognition bestowed upon Prof. Peter Okebukola by the AAU is a testament to his remarkable service and unwavering commitment to the advancement of higher education in West Africa. His innovative contributions have had a profound impact on the quality and effectiveness of educational delivery in the region.

As the Higher Education Ambassador for West Africa, Prof. Okebukola's influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire and foster excellence in the higher education landscape. His dedication to the pursuit of quality education will serve as a guiding light for educators, administrators, and students across the region.

This prestigious award not only recognizes Prof. Okebukola's personal achievements but also highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in ensuring the continued growth and development of higher education in Africa.