The respected veterinary medicine scholar and academic administrator reportedly passed away in the early hours of Saturday at his residence in Oloje Estate, Ilorin, following a brief illness.
The announcement was made by the current Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, through a statement issued by the institution’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Kunle Akogun.
According to the university, Ambali’s passing represents a significant loss not only to the University of Ilorin community but also to Nigeria’s higher education sector.
The late professor served as the institution’s ninth Vice-Chancellor from 2012 to 2017 and was widely credited with contributing to the university’s growth and academic development during his tenure.
The university leadership extended condolences to his family, associates, and members of the Ilorin Emirate, while urging colleagues, students, and well-wishers to participate in the Janazah prayer scheduled for Saturday in Ilorin.
Distinguished Academic Career
Before his death, Ambali was serving as Chairman and Pro-Chancellor of Kwara State University, a position he assumed after completing his term as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin.
Born on November 29, 1957, in Ilorin, Ambali began his educational journey in the state before pursuing higher studies in veterinary medicine.
He earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ahmadu Bello University in 1981.
He later obtained both a master’s degree and a doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from University of Liverpool.
His academic career included a period of teaching at the University of Maiduguri before joining the University of Ilorin, where he rose through the ranks to become Professor of Veterinary Medicine.
He also made history as the pioneer Dean of the institution’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.
Legacy in Higher Education
Throughout his career, Ambali held several leadership positions within Nigeria’s academic community.
He served as Chairman of the Association of West African Universities and was a Fellow of the College of Veterinary Surgeons of Nigeria.
His contributions to veterinary education, university administration, and academic development earned him recognition across Nigeria and the West African region.
Tributes are expected from academic institutions, government officials, and professional bodies as colleagues and former students reflect on his decades-long impact on higher education and veterinary science.
