The Ilorin Emirate Staff Association (IESA) of Kwara State University (KWASU) held a sensitisation programme for its members on Sunday, February 15, 2026, to reinforce the importance of professionalism, discipline, and ethical conduct in the workplace. The event, which took place at the University, featured a welcome address by the Association’s Chairman and presentations from distinguished resource persons.
In his welcome address, Prof. Ibrahim Laro Abubakar, Chairman of IESA-KWASU, congratulated members on their employment, describing it as a call to service and responsibility. He reminded them that as descendants of the Ilorin Emirate, their conduct directly reflects on the Emirate’s long-standing reputation for honour and discipline.
Prof. Ibrahim cautioned against misconduct, stating that acts of indiscipline can tarnish the Emirate’s image. He urged all staff to familiarise themselves with the University Staff Handbook, adhere strictly to its provisions, and prioritise integrity, diligence, and loyalty. “Each of us is an ambassador of the Emirate, and our conduct must always justify the trust placed in us,” he stated.
The Vice Chancellor of Kwara State University, Prof. Shayk Luqman Jimoh, commended the Ilorin Emirate Staff Association (IESA) for organising a timely and impactful sensitisation programme. Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Mahmud Mashood Jimba, the Vice Chancellor praised the initiative as a clear reflection of the Association’s dedication to the holistic development of its members.
He urged all staff to strengthen the bonds of unity among themselves, stressing that harmony and collaboration are fundamental pillars for institutional progress and stability. He charged them to remain worthy ambassadors of both the University and the Ilorin Emirate.
In her goodwill message, the Registrar, Dr. Kikelomo Wasila Sallee, lauded the Association’s focus on ethical reorientation as a pathway to excellence. She encouraged members to consistently uphold the principles of fairness and respect in all their professional relationships. Dr. Sallee specifically called on them to embrace diversity and promote inclusiveness by eliminating all forms of discrimination in the workplace.
Prof. Shehu Abdulganiyu Salau, ASUU-KWASU Chair, spoke on the “Roles of Leadership and Membership in Navigating Challenges and Achieving Excellence.” He posited that excellence is achieved through a collaborative two-way relationship. Leadership is responsible for setting the vision and empowering members, while members act as the engine of execution through active engagement and teamwork. He advocated for a “shared responsibility” model built on mutual trust and a continuous feedback loop to transform challenges into opportunities.
Engr. Mohammed A. Shuaib, the Director, SERVICOM in his presentation on “Work Ethics with Code of Conduct,” defined work ethics as a set of moral principles guiding behaviour, while a code of conduct outlines specific expected actions. He highlighted key principles of a strong work ethic including integrity, responsibility, discipline, and reliability. Engr. Shuaib advised staff to avoid negative traits like procrastination, negativity, and unprofessional behaviour. He concluded that combining a strong work ethic with a code of conduct ensures accountability and professionalism.
Mr. Hamid Jawondo Abdulquadir, Faculty Officer, Faculty of Engineering and Technology speaking on “Acceptable Work Ethics in the Faculty Workplace,” emphasised that a faculty’s character is defined by the conduct of its people. He outlined core ethical requirements under public service rules, including punctuality, integrity, accountability, confidentiality, and respect for constituted authority. He stressed that ethical compliance leads to improved efficiency, a harmonious work environment, and career stability.
Mallam Tosho Yaqub, Esq., the Legal Adviser, KWASU, addressed the sub-theme “Workplace Ethics: Balancing Productivity and Employees’ Rights.” He explained that a balance must be struck between an institution’s need for high productivity and the sacrosanct rights of employees. He outlined the fundamental rights of staff as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and other labour laws, such as the right to fair remuneration and safe working conditions.
He noted that employees who wish to exercise their rights must also be productive and adhere to University regulations. Strategies for achieving balance include flexible work arrangements, clear performance expectations, transparent communication, and fair disciplinary procedures.
Finally, Prof. Binta Sulyman, Head of the Osi Campus, delivered a compelling presentation on “Making Excellence a Habit by Elevating Our Work and Ourselves.” She charged staff to move beyond mere compliance and consciously build excellence into their daily routines, emphasizing that true professionalism is a product of consistent, positive habits.
Prof. Sulyman encouraged members to invest in continuous self-development, noting that by elevating their own skills and character, they inherently elevate the quality and reputation of the University and the Emirate.
Other presenters included Comrade Abdulsalam Jimoh Kannike, Chairman, SSANU-KWASU and Comrade Shehu Baba Atere, Chairman, NASU-KWASU, who delivered solidarity messages, as well as Mr. Abdulrazaq Sanni, Chairman, Organising Committee and Mrs Rahmat Omoronike Jiddah, Welfare Secretary who delivered closing remarks and vote of thanks respectively.
The programme served as a strong call to action for all Ilorin Emirate staff at KWASU to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safeguard the Emirate’s good name, and contribute positively to the University’s growth.
Other high ranking officers of KWASU present at the event include Provost, College of Health Sciences, Prof. Salihu Moyosore Ajao, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Prof.Abdus-Sami’i Imam Arikewuyo, Dean, Faculty of Law, Prof. Abulwahab Elesin, Dean, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Dr. Rahman Mustapha Asunnara, Director, Centre for Research and Development, Prof. Abdul Kabir Hussain Solihu, Director, Centre for Islamic Contemporary Studies and Arabic Documentation, Professor Salih Jumah Alaso, Director, CIT, Dr. R. M. Isiaka, Director, Centre for Digital Economy, Hassanat Bello, Prof. Y.D.U Hambali among others.
