Speaking at the event, the book’s editor and Pro-Chancellor of FUK, Prof. Williams Olu-Aderounmu, said the work was designed to preserve institutional memory and highlight models of effective leadership within the Nigerian university system. Olu-Aderounmu described Pate as a transformational academic leader whose tenure significantly strengthened governance structures and institutional development at the university.

According to him, the 11-chapter book explores Pate’s early life, academic progression, leadership philosophy, public engagement and reform initiatives that shaped the university’s growth. “This book is not merely a compilation of essays. It is a carefully curated scholarly testament.

“It is an enduring intellectual monument that captures the light, the philosophy, leadership trajectory, and transformative impact of an extraordinary academic, administrator, reformer, and nation-builder. “Today’s event transcends ceremonial celebration. It is fundamentally an exercise in academic documentation, institutional memory preservation, and the elevation of exemplary leadership as a subject of scholarly interrogation,” he said.

He added that Pate’s administration recorded notable improvements in infrastructure, strengthened academic programmes, enhanced research culture and improved staff morale across the institution. Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, said the publication offers an opportunity to reflect on the values that defined Pate’s leadership style and professional contributions.

Ribadu noted that Pate’s influence extended beyond academia into media practice, public policy and journalism ethics, particularly in promoting responsible reporting during elections and security challenges. He said Pate’s research contributions in media and governance helped advance peacebuilding efforts by reducing misinformation and promoting balanced reporting in sensitive national contexts. According to him, the former vice-chancellor also played a key role in strengthening mass communication education in Nigeria through sustained engagement with regulatory frameworks, helping institutions adapt to the evolving media landscape.

Ribadu described the book as a valuable reference for scholars, administrators and emerging leaders seeking practical models of ethical and service-driven leadership in higher education. In his remarks, Prof. Pate expressed gratitude to colleagues, mentors and collaborators, describing the recognition as a collective acknowledgement of shared efforts toward advancing scholarship and national development.

He emphasised that leadership must be anchored on transparency, credibility and service to society, while thanking the Federal Government for the opportunity to serve as vice-chancellor. Pate also urged the university community to consolidate on existing gains and sustain the progress achieved during his tenure.