10 Interesting Facts About University Of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Navigating the challenges of university life becomes a unique experience, particularly at the University of Ilorin, where encounters with Tanke add an extra layer of complexity. Compiled here are notable aspects that resonate with students and alumni of the University of Ilorin.

This esteemed institution, also known as UNILORIN, stands as a federal university located in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State in Nigeria. Renowned for its academic excellence, UNILORIN has earned a distinguished reputation as one of the premier universities in Nigeria.

In the year 2021, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) identified UNILORIN as the most sought-after university among Nigerian aspirants. This recognition underscores the university's popularity and desirability, further solidifying its status as a top choice for those pursuing higher education in Nigeria.

All You Need To Know About University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Largest University By Landmass
• Uninterrupted 16 Years Academic Session
• Strict Discipline
• "Face Tanke" 
• Item7
• Struggle for Transport
• Low Cost Of Living
• Water Scarcity in Dry Season
• Strict Dress Code
• Overcrowded CBT During Exam and Test

1. Largest University By Landmass

Nigeria's Largest University Situated in Ilorin, Kwara State, the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) stands as the largest university in Nigeria and holds a notable position among the largest in Africa in terms of land mass, spanning an impressive 15,000 hectares. This expansive campus showcases the vast expanse that UNILORIN occupies, making it a distinctive institution not only for its academic prowess but also for its sheer physical magnitude. Aspiring students and those interested in the educational landscape of Nigeria find UNILORIN's remarkable size a key characteristic, emphasizing its prominence on the educational map of the country and the continent.

2.  Uninterrupted 16 Years Academic Session

UNILORIN proudly stands as the only university in Nigeria to have enjoyed an uninterrupted academic session spanning 16 years until their affiliation with ASUU in 2020. This remarkable achievement underscores the university's commitment to maintaining a seamless and continuous educational experience for its students over an extensive period. The unbroken academic streak for 16 years distinguishes UNILORIN as an institution that prioritized consistent learning environments, making it unique among its peers.

3.  Strict Discipline

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UNILORIN, aptly known as "Better By Far," earns this title not merely by chance but through the stringent discipline and regulations upheld within the institution. The university takes a firm stance against activities such as fighting, cultism, exam malpractice, and similar transgressions.

The enforcement of strict rules creates an environment where such behaviors are vehemently discouraged. Individuals found engaging in any of these acts face serious consequences, including expulsion from the institution. The commitment to maintaining a disciplined atmosphere at UNILORIN contributes significantly to its reputation as a place of serious academic pursuit and ethical conduct.

4. "Face Tanke" 

The phrase 'Face Tanke' embodies a stern policy – the university doesn't compromise. Meeting the required GPA in your first year is non-negotiable; failure to do so, even with a last-minute admission, means confronting Tanke, a colloquial term for expulsion or withdrawal. This strict approach extends to rule violations, particularly in cases of fighting, where individuals are often directed to ‘face tanke.’

UNILORIN's stringent standards are reflected in graduation statistics; while the university may matriculate a significant number, only a fraction successfully graduates. The remainder, numbering in the thousands, might find themselves on the receiving end of the 'face tanke' directive at some point, reinforcing the university's commitment to academic excellence and discipline.

5. Item7

The renowned Item7 restaurant holds a special place as the go-to spot for winning over any UNILORIN girl, all it takes is a plate of their famous rice. Situated in various locations such as Taiwo and Oke Odo, Item7 has become an integral part of the Ilorin dining experience.

In 2018/2018, a plate of Item7 rice cost a mere 400 naira, with an additional 500 naira for extra rice. However, the passage of time has seen a shift in prices; today, a plate of Item7 rice commands N1,500, while extra rice is priced at N1,700. For those with a more lavish taste, indulging in extra rice with chicken, coleslaw, plantain, and beef is an option. Alternatively, one can opt for the more straightforward choice of mixed rice and chicken. Item7 not only satisfies hunger but also plays a role in the social dynamics of UNILORIN's student life.

6. Struggle for Transport

Oke-Odo, nestled in Tanke, Ilorin, is a bustling hub where the pursuit of education seems like a fervent mission. The scene unfolds with a rush for cabs and buses, creating an atmosphere where the quest for knowledge appears almost like a do-or-die endeavor. To onlookers, it paints a glorious picture, showcasing the dedication of tomorrow's leaders as they take their studies seriously.

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For those venturing into the school around 8:30 am (lol), brace yourself for the daily ritual of long queues and spirited struggles for buses at Oke-Odo. The morning commute unfolds as a testament to the commitment of UNILORIN's student body, who navigate the challenges of transportation with determination in their pursuit of education.

7. Cost Of Living

While the overall cost of living in the state remains economical, residing in a student-centric area introduces a nuanced perspective. Living on a budget is entirely feasible, provided one can resist the allure of indulging in Item7 day and night. With prudent spending habits, it's possible to manage on a weekly budget of 5,000 naira. Navigating the student life in this manner requires a balance between essential expenses and discretionary treats, such as resisting the frequent temptation to indulge in the culinary delights offered by Item7. By prioritizing needs over wants, students can make the most of their budget while embracing the affordable lifestyle the state has to offer.

8. Water Scarcity in Dry Season

Post-admission and securing accommodation, investing in large water containers becomes a necessity at UNILORIN. The looming dry seasons bring about a scarcity of water that can be quite challenging to navigate. To avoid finding yourself unprepared and unwillingly facing the prospect of water shortages, taking proactive measures is crucial. Purchasing sizable water containers ensures a steady supply during these dry periods, allowing you to maintain a reliable water source for your daily needs. This foresighted approach becomes an essential aspect of adapting to the environmental dynamics at UNILORIN and ensures that you are well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by water scarcity during the dry season.

9. Strict Dress Code

At UNILORIN, the dress code is no laughing matter; each department imposes a strict and decent dress code that students must adhere to diligently. This commitment to maintaining a certain level of decorum is evident in the poised cat-walking of UNILORIN's girls, often sporting the distinctive palazzo pants. The university's emphasis on a structured dress code reflects its dedication to fostering a disciplined and professional academic environment. This adherence to a formal dress standard not only contributes to the overall campus aesthetic but also underscores the importance of upholding a respectful and serious atmosphere within the academic community.

10. Overcrowded CBT During Exam and Test

When it comes to Computer-Based Tests (CBT), be prepared for overcrowded conditions, particularly when the Faculty of Education, fondly known as the 'Mother of all Faculties,' is scheduled to write. The demand for CBT facilities during these times tends to surge, creating an environment where space becomes a premium commodity. Navigating through the bustling crowds to access the CBT area becomes a shared experience for students, highlighting the challenges of managing the influx of test-takers from the esteemed Faculty of Education. Despite the overcrowded conditions, students persist in their commitment to academic evaluations, reflecting the resilience and determination embedded in UNILORIN's academic culture.

In conclusion, the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) emerges as a unique educational institution with a myriad of distinctive features. From its vast campus to the stringent discipline reflected in the nickname "Better By Far," UNILORIN stands out in the Nigerian academic landscape. The blend of affordable living, culinary delights at Item7, and the challenges of water scarcity during the dry season further characterize the student experience. Additionally, the commitment to a strict dress code, transportation struggles, and the crowded CBT areas contribute to the dynamic and resilient atmosphere at UNILORIN, making it a place where academic rigor and unique cultural aspects coexist.