Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent visit to Ekiti State for the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU) served as a platform to commend the state’s unwavering commitment to education and its positive impact on the citizenry. Akpabio lauded Ekiti’s reputation as a hub of education, asserting that this focus significantly reduces the likelihood of its indigenes resorting to criminal activities. He posited that education empowers individuals to discern right from wrong, fostering a culture of peace and deterring involvement in illicit activities like banditry. Akpabio’s remarks underscored the transformative power of education in shaping individuals and communities, echoing the sentiment that an educated populace is a productive and law-abiding populace.
The convocation ceremony also provided an opportunity to recognize distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to national development. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Zacch Adedeji, and Bank of Industry (BOI) Chairman Mansur Muhtar were conferred with honorary doctorates, acknowledging their respective roles in advancing Nigeria’s progress. Akpabio specifically praised Bamidele’s commitment to education and youth empowerment, underscoring his impactful contributions to national discourse and policy. The event highlighted the synergy between academia, government, and industry in driving national development.
In addition to acknowledging individual achievements, Akpabio addressed the need for infrastructure development to support Ekiti State’s educational and economic progress. He emphasized the importance of constructing the Ado-Ijan Ekiti Road, linking the state capital with the newly established Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. This road, Akpabio argued, would enhance accessibility to the airport, stimulate economic activity, and facilitate the seamless movement of goods and services. He directed that the road’s construction be prioritized and budgeted for, recognizing the crucial role of infrastructure in maximizing the potential of the airport and the state’s economy.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, echoing Akpabio’s sentiments, reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector as a means of empowering youth. He highlighted EKSU’s consistent track record of producing globally competitive graduates, emphasizing the state’s investment in nurturing talent and fostering human capital development. Oyebanji acknowledged Bamidele’s contributions to education, including his instrumental role in securing presidential assent for the establishment of the University of Technology and Environmental Studies in Iyin-Ekiti. This new institution further solidifies Ekiti’s position as a center of learning and underscores the state’s commitment to expanding access to higher education.
The leadership of EKSU, represented by Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman Professor Akin Oyebode and Vice-Chancellor Professor Joseph Ayodele, expressed their commitment to advancing the university’s academic excellence. Oyebode commended Governor Oyebanji’s support for the institution and pledged the council’s dedication to elevating EKSU’s global standing. Ayodele highlighted the positive impact of the governor’s increased monthly subvention, which has enabled the university to address outstanding salary arrears and maintain a stable academic calendar. This financial support, Ayodele noted, has significantly boosted staff morale and contributed to a conducive learning environment.
Senator Bamidele, speaking on behalf of the honorary doctorate recipients, expressed gratitude for the recognition and affirmed their continued dedication to national development. He viewed the award as a motivation to further their contributions to education and national progress, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective effort in driving positive change. The convocation ceremony served as a testament to the transformative power of education, the recognition of individual contributions, and the crucial role of infrastructure in fostering economic growth and national development. It highlighted the collaborative efforts of government, academia, and industry in shaping a brighter future for Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.
