By Adesina Wahab

Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos, has achieved a historic milestone with the promotion of Dr. Modupeade Christianah Adetunji to the rank of full Professor, making her the institution’s first professor since it commenced academic activities in 2019.

The Governing Council of the university approved her promotion from Associate Professor to Professor of Food Microbiology and Mycotoxicology at its 26th regular meeting held on April 30, 2026.

Reacting to the landmark achievement, Professor Adetunji expressed gratitude and described the promotion as a defining moment for both her career and the young institution.

“This is more than a career milestone,” she said. “To be named the pioneer professor in Trinity University’s history is a reminder that dedication, faith, and mentorship bear fruit. I give all glory to God.”

She added that the promotion comes at a crucial time for the university’s growth: “We are evolving from a young, ambitious institution into a research-driven university with continental and global relevance. My role now expands to advancing knowledge in Food Microbiology and Mycotoxicology, building stronger postgraduate training, grant-winning labs, and fostering industry partnerships that will position Trinity as a leader in food safety research.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clement O. O. Kolawole, congratulated Professor Adetunji, noting that she surpassed all requirements across departmental, faculty, and external assessments.

“This promotion is a defining moment in our growth trajectory,” Prof. Kolawole said. “It signals that Trinity University has come of age.”

The Registrar, Mr. David O. Oyejide, described the elevation as clear evidence of the university’s commitment to academic excellence and talent development.

Professor Adetunji has served the university in various capacities, including Acting Head of the Department of Biological Sciences, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Basic, Medical and Applied Sciences, and Director of Academic Planning.

Her promotion is expected to strengthen research output in food safety and mycotoxicology – areas of critical importance to Nigeria’s agriculture, public health, and export competitiveness.