Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (Tech-U), Ibadan, to harness its strategic location along the emerging Rashidi Ladoja Industrial Corridor to deliver research-driven solutions for the state and the nation.
The governor made the remarks while addressing the university’s 2024/2025 convocation ceremony at the institution’s library hall on Saturday.
Represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Makinde, who is also the Visitor to the university, emphasized that Tech-U’s proximity to the growing industrial corridor provides unique opportunities for robust collaboration between academia and industry.
“Your location within an emerging industrial corridor presents opportunities for deep industry–academia collaboration. We look forward to stronger partnerships that will produce solutions for Oyo State and Nigeria,” he said.
The governor commended the university’s management for its achievements despite funding and infrastructural challenges and pledged continued government support. He highlighted interventions already implemented, including the enhancement of campus security through the deployment of Amotekun, perimeter fencing, internal patrols, and the rehabilitation of campus roads.
Makinde also urged graduands to be innovative, courageous, and law-abiding, encouraging them to use the knowledge and values acquired during their studies to positively impact society. “Oyo State and Nigeria look forward to your contributions as innovators, builders, creators, and leaders of tomorrow,” he said.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Adesola Ajayi praised the state government for its support and appealed for accelerated infrastructural development to meet the demands of a growing student population.
He disclosed that 183 students graduated during the ceremony, including 50 First Class honorees, and that Tech-U now offers 32 accredited academic programs, including new Bachelor of Nursing Sciences and Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences degrees.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, highlighted further progress in accreditation and administrative appointments, as well as the development of a comprehensive Financial Sustainability Plan.
Elizabeth Ayodele Oladejo, a First Class graduate in Mathematics & Statistics, was named the overall Best Student of the 2024/25 academic session.
Governor Makinde concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting the university as it positions itself as a center for problem-solving research, entrepreneurship, and industrial development in Oyo State and beyond.
