The Nigerian Psychological Association (NPA) has conferred an honorary fellowship award on Dr. Muhammed Aminu Yaru in recognition of his exemplary leadership and outstanding contributions to the growth and transformation of the Department of Psychology, University of Ilorin.
The award ceremony, held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Faculty of Social Sciences Board Room, celebrated Dr. Yaru’s tenure as Acting Head of the Department of Psychology from 2022 to 2024.
Speaking at the event, the President of NPA, Prof. Olukayode Afolabi—represented by the Association’s General Secretary, Dr. Yemi Atibioke—commended Dr. Yaru for his dedication, vision, and unifying leadership style.
“Coming from the Department of Economics to lead Psychology is not an easy task, but Dr. Yaru proved that leadership is about capacity, not background,” Dr. Atibioke said, noting that over 1,500 registered psychologists across Nigeria joined in celebrating the honouree.
The NPA President further hailed Dr. Yaru’s ability to mobilise and inspire colleagues, describing him as a leader who “left no stone unturned” in advancing the goals of the Department.
Similarly, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. A. Y. Muhammed, described Dr. Yaru’s administration as “transformative and exemplary,” lauding his reform-driven approach and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
“The Department will forever remember his legacy. We will continue to sustain the structures he built,” Prof. Muhammed stated.
The current Head of the Department, Dr. Bankole Agesin, also praised Dr. Yaru’s inclusive and visionary leadership, highlighting achievements such as securing full accreditation and improving staff welfare.
“Under his leadership, the Department became a beacon of knowledge and professionalism,” Dr. Agesin added.
In his response, Dr. Yaru, an Associate Professor, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and appreciated the collective support of his colleagues in both the Departments of Psychology and Economics.
“This award is not mine alone; it belongs to everyone who supported me. If it were possible to share it physically, I would,” he said, urging leaders to serve with sincerity and integrity rather than for personal recognition.
Mr. O. A. Popoola, in his closing remarks, thanked guests, academic staff, and members of the University community for honouring Dr. Yaru and celebrating his achievements.
The ceremony was attended by Heads of Departments within the Faculty of Social Sciences, academic staff, and members of the University of Ilorin community.