President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Smart Olugbeko as the substantive Provost of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti.
The appointment was announced by the institution’s Governing Council during its 8th Regular Meeting held on June 10, 2026.
In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, the Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, Khadijah Garba, described Olugbeko as an experienced academic and administrator with over two decades of service in teaching, research and educational management.
According to the statement, the appointment is for a single five-year tenure and becomes effective from the date he officially assumes office.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti, approved the appointment of Dr Smart Olugbeko as the substantive Provost of the College.
“Dr Olugbeko’s appointment is for a single term of five years and takes effect from the date of his assumption of duty,” the statement noted.
The Governing Council expressed confidence that Olugbeko’s experience and leadership qualities would help strengthen the institution and enhance its reputation as a leading centre for teacher education in Nigeria.
Before his appointment, Olugbeko served as a Chief Lecturer on secondment at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Ekiadolor, Edo State. He also previously undertook sabbatical and secondment assignments at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos State.
He began his academic career at Adeyemi Federal University of Education, where he progressed through the ranks from Lecturer III to Chief Lecturer and later Associate Professor.
The statement highlighted his contributions to academic scholarship, particularly in the fields of bilingualism, language policy and conflict resolution.
Garba described him as a prolific scholar who has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, textbooks and other academic publications.
The council further noted that Olugbeko has received more than 40 awards and recognitions from academic institutions, student organisations and community groups for his contributions to education and national development.
In addition to his academic achievements, he played prominent roles in the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union, serving as both President and Zonal Coordinator. During his tenure, he participated in negotiations and contributed to educational policy reforms, including the implementation of the dual mandate curriculum.
The statement also credited him with helping to secure intervention funding through engagements with Tertiary Education Trust Fund and attracting grants from organisations such as UNESCO and the Universal Basic Education Commission.
According to the Governing Council, Olugbeko is also widely recognised as a resource person for both the National Commission for Colleges of Education and the National Universities Commission.
The council congratulated the new provost and pledged its support in advancing the institution’s objectives and promoting growth in teacher education.
