President Bola Tinubu has described former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba as a notable Nigerian who is always concerned about the oneness of Nigeria and her development.
President Tinubu stated this at the public launch of a Book, “My Life In the Public Eye”, to mark Chief Osoba’s 85th birthday held at the Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima disclosed the leading roles Chief Osoba played as a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in ensuring that the country returned to democratic rule.
President Tinubu recalled the celebrant’s efforts in co-forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the foremost journalist is always interested in discussing issues with positive impact for Nigeria and Nigerians.
While noting that Chief Osoba’s life would serve as a source of inspiration to the young ones, the President called on other Nigerians with a wealth of experience to pen them down for prosperity.
He acknowledged the current economic situation in the country but emphasized that his administration was working to address food shortages, just as he called on Nigerians to grow what they eat.
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, appreciated the author for putting the book together for the benefit of the next generation, adding that Chief Osoba is a great nationalist whose contribution to national development is unparallel
In his address, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, while recalling the exploit of Chief Osoba in journalism, said as a young reporter covering the 1966 civil war, he discovered the bodies of late Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa and Finance Minister, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh.
He said during his tenure as Governor of the Gateway State, Aremo Osoba exemplified unwavering dedication, integrity, and a profound commitment to public service, adding that he contributed to the development, stability and progress of Nigeria and Ogun State.
“Throughout his leadership governance, Chief Olusegun Osoba navigated challenges with foresight and determination, laying the foundation for the socio-economic growth we enjoy today. His visionary policies in education, healthcare, rural electrification, infrastructure, and agriculture have left an indelible mark on our state’s landscape.
“Chief Osoba’s exceptional drive and penchant for rural development are unprecedented in the history of our State, as he changed the narrative of rural-urban migration during his tenure as Governor by taking development to these communities,” Prince Abiodun added.
The occasion, the governor noted, represented the ideals that the celebrant personifies which include good governance that guarantees freedom, fairness, inclusiveness, equity, and justice, making life more abundant and prosperous for the people of Ogun State.
Secretary to the Federal Government, Sen. George Akume, praised Aremo Osoba as a celebral and highly intelligent man, noting that his views on national and political issues are always cogent, even as he appreciated him for putting his experience in the public service into writing.
Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Femi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Chief Osoba is a prolific writer who is passionate about the development of the country, and called on the upcoming journalists not to de-market the nation but write and comment on issues that would be of benefit to the people.
In his goodwill message, former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, described Chief Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped in shaping the Daily Times of Nigeria to one of the best newspapers in the country.
Yabatech Gov Council Assumes Duty on Monday, July 22
In a significant move aimed at bolstering the academic standards and infrastructural development of Yaba College of Technology, the federal government newly constituted and inaugurated council of the institution led by Professor ‘ Funsho Isolaowa Afolabi will assume duty on Monday, July 22.
This strategic decision is expected to steer the institution towards new heights of academic excellence and structural growth.
The Board on arrival is scheduled to have interaction with all council members, after which a courtesy visit will be paid to royal fathers in Lagos, meetings with Yabatech stakeholders, tour of the college campuses and intensive first Council meetings for the rest of the week.
Professor Afolabi, a renowned academic and expert in educational administration, a Professor of Geography and Tourism, brings wealth of experience to his new role.
With a robust background in higher education, his leadership is anticipated to invigorate the governance of the College. His track record suggests a strong capacity to make impactful decisions that will benefit the entire college community, fostering an environment of academic rigor and infrastructural improvement.
In addition to Professor Afolabi’s appointment, the federal government also named several distinguished Nigerians as members.The appointees are:
Dr. Muhammed Bello Maude, a respected Ombudsman at the Public Complaints Commission, Nigeria, known for his commitment to justice and public service.
Chief Ebenezer Akinbolade, a former Commissioner of the Lagos State Ministry of Establishment, whose extensive experience in administration and governance will be invaluable.
Saidi Balogun, a seasoned professional with over three decades in Nigerian cinematography, acting, writing, scripting, producing and directing is bringing a unique perspective to the Council.
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Hajia Falmata Wakil, a dedicated advocate for educational development and policy implementation, whose passion for education will guide strategic decisions.
Each of these individuals brings diverse expertise and insights that will be instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by the institution and exploring new opportunities for her growth and development.
However in line with the new Polytechnic Act, five members have been elected internally from the college to serve on the Governing Council as members. The elected staff are:
Dr. Moruf Adebakin representing the Academic Board, having pulled 88 votes. Adebakin, a former Council member and former Deputy Rector (Administration) and presently the Director, Centre for Human Resource Development started his lecturing career in 1993.
He holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, as well as a Master of Science in Psychology, and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Behavior from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. His deep understanding of the institution’s operational dynamics will be crucial in his new role.
Dr. Kayode Aledare, also elected as second representative of the Academic Board, is
a chief lecturer in the School of Environmental Studies.
Aledare, joined the services of the College in 1995 as Lecturer III and rose through the ranks to become a chief lecturer in 2012. Aledare, a one-time Director of, Internal Quality Assurance Unit scored 88 votes in the election. His academic prowess and commitment to environmental studies will provide valuable perspectives.
Dr. Adeniyi FaFadipe, Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Chief Lecturer, and current Dean of the School of Management and Business Studies is elected as one of the representatives of the Academic Staff.
He joined the services of the College over two (2) decades ago. Fadipe pulled 627 votes in the election. His leadership in Accounting, taxation and administration is expected to influence strategic academic decisions of the Council.
Barr. Wellington Ikpen, a 1992 and 2011 Bachelor’s and Master’s degree holders from Ambrose Alli University, joined the services of the college in 1993 and rose to become a chief lecturer and one-time Dean of the School of Liberal Studies.
He is representing the Academic Staff on Board having pulled a total number of 643 votes in the election. His legal expertise and administrative experience will be an asset to the Council.
Mr. Omopariola Olorumbe, a 1991 Bachelor’s degree holder from the Ondo State University, now University of Ado-Ekiti joined the services of the College in February 2000 and rose to the position of Deputy Registrar.
Omopariola will represent the Non-Academic Staff having pulled 257 votes at the polls. His extensive experience in administration will help in addressing the needs and concerns of non-academic staff and the college at large in Council.
Suffice to state that during the elections for the newly elected members of the governing council, Dr. Abubakar Mobolaji Olaseni, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, emphasized that the elections were free and fair, bringing in individuals with diverse perspectives and strong integrity.
Also, Dr. Omabayo Raheem, another committee member, reiterated the transparency of the election process, highlighting the impeccable character and combined knowledge of the elected candidates.
Dr. Kayode Aledare and Mr. Omopariola, speaking at the election grounds, assured the College community that their team would positively impact the institution’s future.
The duo promised that the incoming leadership would drive the College towards new heights of academic excellence, infrastructural development, and overall institutional growth.
