By Adesina Wahab

Former Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, in the Southwest, Comrade Alao John, has commended the Senior Special Assistant on Students Affairs to Oyo State Governor, Hon. Victor Olojede, for truly knowing the needs of students and helping to provide them.

Also, who is now a spokesperson to the NANS national president, also described Olojede as a round peg in a round hole.

In a statement on Thursday, Also opined that the SSA has shown dedication and unwavering commitment to the cause of students in Oyo State.

“In the realm of student leadership and youth engagement in Oyo State, one man continues to distinguish himself through unwavering dedication, visionary ideas, and a deep understanding of the student constituency Honourable Victor Olojede, the Senior Special Assistant on Students Affairs to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde.

“As a student leader, having served as the former Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest and presently the Spokesman to the NANS President, I have had the privilege of interacting with several government representatives across Nigeria. Yet, Hon. Victor Olojede stands tall as a rare gem, a bridge builder, a servant-leader, and a consistent advocate for students.

“Since his appointment in 2019, he has not only embraced his role with clarity and purpose but has gone further to redefine the office. Hon. Olojede has proven beyond doubt that leadership is not a position but a commitment to service. In his words and deeds, he embodies what John C. Maxwell meant when he said, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”

“He has successfully bridged the gap between Nigerian students in Oyo State and the state government. Through his office, student voices have not just been heard, they have been respected, valued, and acted upon. He has consistently facilitated student-focused initiatives, ranging from capacity-building programmes, educational support drives, scholarship facilitation, to open-door engagements that foster inclusivity and transparency.

“Leadership is about influence, and Hon. Victor Olojede’s influence has been both inspiring and impactful. His approach to governance and youth relations reflects Abraham Lincoln’s timeless wisdom: “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” Through his efforts, he has helped thousands of students envision and actualize a brighter path.

“Beyond politics, he remains accessible, grounded, and committed to the ideals of development and equity within the student community. His humility is strength, and his dedication is a beacon for aspiring young leaders.

‘As a proud stakeholder in the student movement in Oyo State and Nigeria at large, I make bold to say: the best gift Governor Seyi Makinde gave to the student constituency was appointing a man who truly understands us. Hon. Victor Olojede is not just an aide; he is our voice, our support system, and a model of what youth in governance should look like.

‘I am proud to call him my SSA on Students Affairs a brother in the struggle and a servant-leader whose name history will not forget.”