OSOGBO, May 10, 2026 – Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the appointment of Mrs Victoria Adunola Samson, popularly known as BOVAS, as the new Chancellor of Osun State University, Osogbo.

In line with this development, the announcement follows the completion of the tenure of the former Chancellor, Folorunso Alakija, whose service officially ended on March 18, 2026 after a decade of impactful leadership.

Meanwhile, prior to the new appointment, the Osun State Government visited Alakija on Friday, May 8, 2026, to express gratitude for her immense contributions to the institution and the state at large.

Alakija’s Tenure and Contributions

During her tenure, Governor Adeleke praised the outgoing Chancellor, describing her service as remarkable and transformative for the university system.

SEE ALSO: How Much Is Dollar To Naira Today? Latest FX Rates Released

BREAKING: Nigerian Army Kills Terrorist, Recovers AK-47 Rifles During Deadly Ambush in Kogi

“Her contributions remain a living legacy for our university. Without doubt, her support significantly strengthened both the institution and Osun State.”

Additionally, he highlighted her donation of the multi-billion naira Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital to Osun State University, noting its lasting impact on healthcare development.

Profile of the New Chancellor

Mrs Victoria Adunola Samson, widely known as Mama BOVAS, founded BOVAS Oil and Gas Company and hails from Iree in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State. She was born on December 5, 1949.

Over the years, she transformed the company from a single service station into a nationwide network of over 200 outlets, creating more than 2,000 jobs for Nigerians as of December 31, 2025.

Notably, she holds the Texaco Petroleum franchise and made history in 1990 as the first Nigerian to win the Texaco Latin America and West Africa (LAWA) Award for Best Overall Dealer after achieving outstanding sales performance across two continents.

Industry Recognition and Leadership Roles

Furthermore, Mrs Samson has consistently played influential roles within the oil and gas sector. She has served as:

• Matron, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN)
• Representative at NNPC/PPMC Satellite Depot, Ejigbo
• Representative at Apata Depot, Ibadan
• Board of Trustees Member, Depot and Petroleum Products Marketing Association (DAPPMA)

Education and Global Exposure

In addition to her business achievements, she holds a Professional Diploma in Marketing and completed executive training at Harvard University Business School in 2013 under the Leadership for Family in Business programme.

Similarly, she participated in the Chief Executive Programme at IESE Business School, Barcelona, Spain, further strengthening her global leadership exposure.

Governor’s Remarks

Speaking on her appointment, Governor Adeleke commended her business ethics and national impact, stressing that her reputation reflects integrity and service.

“We recognize your distinct effort to make life easier for consumers of petroleum products. Indeed, we celebrate you as a symbol of decency, honesty, integrity, and humanity in our society.”

Consequently, he added that her appointment reflects the state government’s commitment to excellence, accountability, and value-driven leadership in education.

Official Statement

The announcement was signed by Mallam Olawale Rasheed, spokesperson to the Osun State Government.