By James Ogunnaike

On Friday, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun admonished graduates of Nigeria’s higher institutions to strive to be innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in their respective fields.

He equally charged them with facing the world’s challenges with the values and principles that had shaped their lives in school.

Governor Abiodun, gave the admonitions while speaking at the 34th Convocation ceremony of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, (OOU) Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele said the world is filled with both challenges and opportunities, reminding them that “the future rewards those who press on”.

He said, “as you step into the world, carry the values and principles that have shaped you. Strive to be innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in your respective fields”.

While congratulating the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Johnson Olayinka Agboola, the management team, and staff of the institution, the governor noted that their leadership and collective efforts have fostered a peaceful and productive academic environment, enabling the university to sustain its high standards.

“Olabisi Onabanjo University has, over the years, distinguished itself as a citadel of learning and a training ground for leaders and agents of positive change”.

“As a government, we recognize that education is the foundation of a progressive society. It fuels innovation, drives empowerment, and serves as a catalyst for development”.

“Our administration remains committed to advancing education in Ogun State by creating an enabling environment for learning and forging strategic partnerships to elevate our institutions to global standards. We continue to invest in infrastructure, capacity building, and policies that enhance access to high-quality education”.

“Our vision is to make Ogun State a hub of academic excellence and innovation. Olabisi Onabanjo University plays a vital role in this mission, and I commend its leadership for fostering research, academic excellence, and community service”.

“Let me assure this great institution that our government remains fully committed to its continuous development. This includes the construction of modern lecture halls, state-of-the-art laboratories, student accommodations, and recreational facilities”.

“We will also ensure that the university has access to advanced technology and cutting-edge resources to enhance research, teaching, and learning”.

“In this digital age, education must evolve. We are committed to expanding e-learning infrastructure and digital resources to equip our students with the necessary tools to compete in an increasingly globalized world. Our government will continue to support this institution in maintaining global competitiveness in higher education”.

“We are determined to ensure that no Ogun State student is denied access to quality education due to financial constraints. Our scholarship and bursary programs have supported thousands of students in pursuing higher education both locally and internationally”.

“Additionally, the NELFund initiative, under the “Renewed Hope” Agenda of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has significantly supported students across tertiary institutions, enabling them to acquire the education needed for a secure future”.

While appreciating the contributions of TETFund at repositioning tertiary institutions in Ogun State through its various interventions, Governor Abiodun said his administration in 2020 established the State Education Trust Fund for infrastructure development in state-owned tertiary institutions not covered by TETFund interventions.

He added that “plans are afoot to expand the fund to cover primary and secondary institutions, pointing out that this demonstrates his government’s strong commitment to providing qualitative and accessible education at all levels.

He called on well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations, and private sector players to partner with the government in furthering educational development in the State, saying, “Together, we can build a future where every child has access to quality education, and every graduate has the skills and knowledge to succeed.”

The governor awarded the overall best-graduating student at the convocation, Miss Dauda Aishat Anuoluwapo, a sum of #3m, and 14 others who performed excellently in different faculties 500,000 each.

In their separate remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Prof. Toyin Ashiru and the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, appreciated the visitor to the university, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his presence at the Occasion saying it affirms the premium value his administration places on education as a means of holistic and transformative development of the State.

The duo said past years have been marked with significant milestones, including the expansion of academic programmes, infrastructural development, and national recognition in technology.

While congratulating the graduating students, they urged them to be fearless in pursuing their dreams and be unwavering in their commitment to making a difference and using the knowledge and skills garnered in the cause of their studies to contribute meaningfully to society and uplift humanity.