UI Convocation: The Business Behind the Celebration

Abdullahi Oladigbolu

The road leading to the ICC gate was already ablaze with more than excitement at 8 a.m. Convocation morning had transformed the normally tranquil environment into a marketplace of shouts, colours and camera flashes. Graduates in flowing academic gowns added their own splash of colour to the morning scene, walking briskly toward the ICC, their heads held up high as families hurried behind them. The morning breeze carried the aroma of popcorn, food snacks, and simmering jollof rice in the food warmer. 

“Sash ₦1,500! Get your sash here!” a woman yelled, spreading different colours across her arm. Meanwhile, a dispute over whose turn it was to take the next set of photographs flared between three photographers a few meters away. “Next! Shift small, yes, smile!” one of them bellowed, clicking his camera shutter rapidly to take a picture.

Though the formal event happened within the ICC, another kind of event, no less colourful and unofficial, happened outside. The relatives and well-wishers who could not get into the ICC hung around the premises, buying snacks and viewing items found at various booths while waiting for “their” graduate to come out dressed in cap and gown

At the side of the walkway leading to the ICC, there was a merchandise stall offering various convocation mementos such as cups, sashes, pillows, key holders, and journals, all of which sported the logo of the University of Ibadan. The merchandise, carefully arranged, shone under the sunlight. “Sales are usually good on a day like this”said Ms Janet, the merchandise vendor. “People want something they can take home to remember this moment.”

Photographers remained the undisputed kings of the convocation economy. With camera straps hung over their shoulders and reflectors tucked under their arms, they moved effortlessly across the lawns, monuments, and walkways.“By 2 a.m., I’ve already completed 10 sessions,” said Mr. Daniel. “The competition is very tight. You just have to know how to position yourself and convince people to use your service.” Another photographer, however expressed disappointment after having paid a gate fee of #5000 and and making no sales

Once the programme ended inside the hall, the crowd shifted into the university premises for the reception, a second wave of business and celebration. Tents lined both sides of Oduduwa Road, extending down toward the Chapel axis. Some tents carried the energy of a classic owambe, others felt like quiet family gatherings.

Rentals vendors had their own bustling ecosystem here—chairs, canopies, coolers, and serving dishes arranged earlier in the morning for dozens of families. “Fresh palm wine here!” one vendor called out. The rhythmic sound of talking drums filled the air as bands moved from tent to tent, singing praises of graduates and well-dressed guests, hoping for tips. Plates of jollof rice, amala, pounded yam, and fried meat circulated as hosts entertained their visitors and “hunters” went about their businesses.

By late afternoon, as excitement began to fade and families and guests prepared to head to their respective destinations, the business frenzy gradually softened. Vendors packed their trays, photographers reviewed their day’s shots, and merchandise sellers counted what they had left.

In the end, UI Convocation was more than a celebration of a milestone for graduates. It was a day when business thrived; when the usually tranquil UI environment transformed into a busy mini-marketplace. On a day meant to honour academic achievement, the vendors also celebrated with the satisfaction that comes from one good day of business.