Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a strong charge to the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan (Tech-U), urging it to become a pivotal force for national development through strategic research and partnerships with industry.
A Call for Strategic Collaboration
The governor delivered this message during the university's convocation ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic session, held on 15 December 2025. Represented by his deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde pinpointed the institution's unique advantage: its location along the emerging Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road industrial corridor.
He emphasized that this strategic positioning offers a golden opportunity for the university to forge deep, productive ties with nearby industrial hubs. "Your location within an emerging industrial corridor presents opportunities for deep industry–academia collaboration," the governor stated. He further challenged the university to leverage the ongoing development in the area to strengthen partnerships that yield research-based solutions for both Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
State Support and Security Measures
Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting Tech-U, particularly in tackling challenges related to funding and infrastructure. He outlined several ongoing interventions designed to improve the campus environment and support the university community:
- Deployment of the Amotekun security outfit and erection of perimeter fencing to enhance safety.
- Rehabilitation of internal roads within the university.
- Allocation of a newly built Primary Health Centre to serve the university community.
- Inclusion of students in the ALGON Scholarship Programme.
The governor reported that these security measures, including increased patrols, have led to a notable reduction in cases of theft and vandalism on campus.
University's Appeal and Graduating Class
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of Tech-U, Professor Adesola Ajayi, expressed gratitude for the state government's support but highlighted pressing needs. He appealed for increased funding and infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population.
"Several programmes still operate in shared and inadequate facilities. Laboratories, workshops, lecture halls, and studios require significant expansion to meet modern teaching and research standards," Professor Ajayi explained.
The convocation celebrated the graduation of 183 students across three faculties: Natural and Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology, and Environmental Sciences and Management. Impressively, 50 of these graduates finished with First-Class honours.
A Charge to the Graduands
Governor Makinde concluded by directing a powerful message to the graduating students. He urged them to be curious, courageous, and law-abiding citizens, applying the knowledge and character forged at Tech-U to make a positive impact on society.
"Oyo State and Nigeria look forward to your contributions as innovators, builders, creators, and leaders of tomorrow," Makinde stated, encapsulating the high expectations placed on the new graduates.
