Past Executives
& Alumni
Honouring the dedicated leaders who shaped NASSORS at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife — their service, vision, and legacy live on.
The History of NASSORS
From a single-department association at OAU Ile-Ife, NASSORS grew into a national voice for Religious Studies students across Nigeria — rooted in scholarship, unity, and the pursuit of interreligious peace.
What began as RESSA — the Religious Studies Students Association — at one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities evolved into a movement that united students from across the country, giving scholarly and collective voice to one of the most vital disciplines of our time.
Today, NASSORS stands as a testament to the power of student-driven leadership and the enduring importance of religious scholarship in building a just, tolerant, and united Nigeria.
From RESSA to NASSORS
NASSORS traces its roots to the early days of the Department of Religious Studies at Obafemi Awolowo University — one of the first departments established at the then-University of Ife.
RESSA operated with a defined leadership model until a pivotal chapter arrived in 1991.
Born Out of a Call for Unity
The 1991 RESSA election brought Comrade Abiola Ayodeji Olaniyi (Theophilus) into the presidency at a period marked by growing religious tensions across Nigeria.
This inter-university collaboration gave birth to NASSORS in 1991. Comrade Olaniyi was elected inaugural National President in 1992.
A Vibrant, United Community
To create a vibrant and united community of Religious Studies students throughout Nigeria, dedicated to achieving academic excellence, fostering interreligious harmony, and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Five Pillars of Purpose
- Cultivate unity and collaboration among Religious Studies students in Nigerian universities
- Enhance academic growth through seminars, conferences, and engaging discussions
- Support interfaith dialogue and offer thoughtful solutions to religious conflicts
- Champion ethical values, tolerance, and mutual respect across religious backgrounds
- Advocate for the academic and social interests of Religious Studies students nationally
Our Vision
A Leading Association of Excellence in Africa
To be a premier student association for the academic study of religion in Africa — promoting intellectual inquiry, intercultural understanding, and ethical leadership for the global community.
Our Mission
Teaching. Research. Service.
- Foster high-quality scholarship and research in Religious Studies among members
- Examine religion critically within its cultural and social contexts
- Prepare students for leadership, scholarship, and service in a diverse world
Celebrating the men and women who led NASSORS at OAU Ile-Ife with distinction — listed in chronological order from our founding to the present.
Abiola Ayodeji Olaniyi“Theophilus”
Oluwasegun Peter Aluko PhD
Abejide Sunday Julius
Agada Sunday Benjamin
Udoh Samuel Joshua“Son of Man”
Opeyemi Blessing
Mustapha Lateef Opeyemi“The Pathfinder”
Raheem Sodeeq Tomiwa
Okeowo Oluwafunmilayo Rebecca
Olumayowa Isaac Alabi“Lord Mayor”
Akinibi Muftahudeen Oyempemi
