The Association of Academics Qualitative Research Likeminds in Africa (AAQREL), an esteemed continental body dedicated to advancing qualitative research scholarship, has bestowed the distinguished title of Fellow of AAQREL on the Vice Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, Professor Noah Yusuf. This momentous occasion took place on Tuesday, 24th June 2025, within the dignified setting of the University Senate Chamber. The event drew a diverse audience that included eminent scholars, senior university administrators, representatives of professional research associations, and members of the media who gathered to witness and celebrate the conferment of this prestigious honour.
The award represents AAQREL’s highest level of recognition, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in promoting the culture of qualitative inquiry, supporting innovative research practices, and championing the professional development of scholars across Africa. In his opening remarks, the President of AAQREL, Dr. Rahmat Bello, praised Professor Yusuf for his unwavering commitment to fostering research excellence and positioning Al-Hikmah University as an emerging hub for academic innovation. He described the Vice Chancellor as “a visionary leader whose commitment to research capacity building has inspired a generation of scholars and strengthened the profile of qualitative research within Nigerian higher education institutions.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the formal presentation of the Fellowship plaque and regalia to Professor Yusuf, symbolizing both recognition and responsibility. Dr. Bello emphasized that AAQREL, through this fellowship, hoped to further galvanize scholarly networks and inspire other university leaders to prioritize research development and cross-institutional collaborations.
The ceremony was not only an occasion of celebration but also a platform for forging stronger ties between AAQREL and Al-Hikmah University. As part of the day’s proceedings, both institutions tabled the proposed signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to formalize and deepen their partnership. The MoU outlines a shared vision for advancing qualitative research by organizing capacity-building workshops, facilitating mentorship and joint publications among academics, and hosting international conferences dedicated to discussing emerging trends, methodologies, and challenges in qualitative research across Africa.
Following the presentation of the award, Professor Yusuf took the podium to deliver an acceptance speech marked by humility and appreciation. He thanked the leadership of AAQREL for the honour and recognition, noting that it was a testament to the collective efforts of the entire Al-Hikmah University community in advancing the frontiers of scholarship. He reiterated the university’s unwavering commitment to leveraging the partnership to enrich the research culture, enhance the competencies of academic staff, and position Al-Hikmah University as a beacon of qualitative research excellence on the continent.
In an inspiring moment, the President of AAQREL, Associate Professor R.M. Adisa, who performed the conferment of the award, expressed profound joy at celebrating a leader of Professor Yusuf’s calibre. He formally announced that AAQREL had selected Al-Hikmah University as the official headquarters of the association’s activities in Nigeria, citing the institution’s growing reputation for research innovation, its supportive leadership, and its conducive environment for scholarly engagement. This announcement was met with applause and marked a major milestone in Al-Hikmah University’s aspirations to expand its research networks, attract international collaborations, and contribute meaningfully to the production of knowledge in Africa.
The Vice President of AAQREL, Dr. Yusuf Suleiman—who also serves as the Director of the Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage and International Cooperation at Al-Hikmah University—took the opportunity to read the contents of the MoU aloud to all present. Dr. Suleiman explained that while the draft agreement reflected the shared objectives of both parties, a few sections required further review and adjustment to ensure clarity and mutual benefit. It was therefore agreed that the necessary corrections would be completed promptly, allowing for the formal signing of the MoU to be concluded on or before 2nd July 2025. This consensus demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that the partnership is built on transparency, shared ownership, and sustainability.
The Secretary of AAQREL, Mr. Yusuf Ayodeji Ajani, was also present at the ceremony and contributed to the discussions, affirming the association’s readiness to commence implementation of the MoU once the revisions were finalized. He emphasized that AAQREL looked forward to working closely with the university’s leadership and research community to advance the association’s mission of supporting qualitative research capacity and fostering impactful scholarship that addresses Africa’s complex developmental challenges.
Members of AAQREL drawn from Al-Hikmah University were also in attendance and expressed their excitement about the opportunities the partnership would bring to the university’s staff and students. They highlighted that the presence of the association’s headquarters within the university would encourage wider participation in qualitative research activities, expose scholars to cutting-edge methodologies, and create platforms for sharing best practices with peers across the continent.
Throughout the event, there was a shared sense of purpose and optimism as speakers reflected on the transformative potential of education and research in addressing societal problems and shaping Africa’s development trajectory. The Vice Chancellor, in his closing remarks, reaffirmed that the conferment of the fellowship and the evolving collaboration with AAQREL were not merely ceremonial but strategic milestones aligned with Al-Hikmah University’s vision to be a centre of excellence in research and innovation. He pledged that under his leadership, the university would continue to invest in initiatives that promote scholarly engagement, support capacity development, and inspire the next generation of researchers and thought leaders.
The ceremony concluded with a group photograph capturing AAQREL’s executives, the university’s management team, and members of the academic community who gathered to witness this historic event. Light refreshments were served, and informal networking continued as participants exchanged ideas on potential research collaborations and strategies for strengthening the culture of qualitative inquiry within their respective institutions.
In all, the conferment of the Fellow of AAQREL on Professor Noah Yusuf and the planned signing of the MoU signal a new chapter in the university’s commitment to research excellence. The event underscored the value of visionary leadership, collaboration, and a shared determination to leverage knowledge for societal transformation. It stands as a powerful example of how academia can rise above challenges to create lasting partnerships that benefit both institutions and the wider community. The Association of Academics Qualitative Research Likeminds in Africa (AAQREL) boasts a robust membership of over 3,000 scholars spanning various African countries and international institutions. This diverse network reflects the association’s commitment to advancing qualitative research and fostering cross-border academic collaboration and innovation.