New Leadership Appointed at Osun State University
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed Mrs. Victoria Samson, widely known as “BOVAS,” as the new Chancellor of Osun State University in Osogbo. This announcement was made on May 10, 2026, following the conclusion of the term of the outgoing Chancellor, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, who served from 2016 to 2026.
A statement issued by State Government Spokesman Mr. Olawale Rasheed and shared on the Osun State official social media account highlighted that this appointment signifies the dawn of a new leadership era for the university.
Mrs. Samson, the founder of BOVAS Oil and Gas Company, is recognized as one of Nigeria’s leading female entrepreneurs in the downstream petroleum sector. Her successful business initiatives have established her as a formidable force within the industry.
Governor Adeleke expressed his gratitude to the outgoing Chancellor, emphasizing the significant impact of her decade-long service. “The Office of the Chancellor made a lasting impression on the university and its community,” he noted, referring to Apostle Alakija’s contributions.
Regarding the outgoing Chancellor, the governor remarked that her tenure concluded on March 18, 2026, and the state government had made a visit to express appreciation to the Alakija family for their substantial support to both the university and the state.
One of the most significant contributions cited by Governor Adeleke was the Apostle’s philanthropic efforts, including substantial donations to medical facilities associated with the university. “Her generosity, particularly the multi-billion naira donation to Modupe Hospital and the Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital, exemplifies her commitment to health advancement in Osun State,” he stated.
In appointing Mrs. Samson, Governor Adeleke praised her as a beacon of integrity and service. He recognized her contributions to the petroleum sector with the words, “We celebrate you, presenting you as a symbol of decency, honesty, integrity, and humanity in our society.” Born on December 5, 1949, in Iree, Boripe Local Government Area, she has established a strong presence in the Nigerian oil and gas industry over several decades.
Under her leadership, BOVAS Oil and Gas Company has grown from a single filling station into a national network boasting over 200 locations, employing more than 2,000 Nigerians as of December 2025. Notable achievements include being the first Nigerian to win the Texaco Latin America and West Africa (LAWA) Award for Best General Dealer in 1990, along with owning a Texaco oil franchise.
Mrs. Samson is actively involved in the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and serves on the Board of Directors of the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketing Association (DAPPMA). Her academic credentials include a Professional Diploma in Marketing, a 2013 Leadership Program at Harvard Business School, and Executive Education at IESE Business School in Barcelona.
Governor Adeleke extended his congratulations to Mrs. Samson, saying, “On behalf of the Osun State government and its people, we congratulate you on your appointment as Chancellor of Osun State University. Your legacy of integrity and service is a point of pride for our state.” This new role is anticipated to enhance the university’s leadership as it advances its academic and infrastructural initiatives.
