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Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun
The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, on Friday, challenged the 6,209 graduands of the 34th convocation of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, to strive to be innovators and problem solvers, harnessing their knowledge and potential to create a better world.
Abiodun also announced a financial gift of ₦2.5 million to the overall best graduating student, Aishat Anuoluwapo Dauda of the Economics Department, who achieved a CGPA of 4.87. Additionally, 14 graduands who emerged as the top students in their respective departments will each receive ₦500,000.
Governor Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, made this call while speaking at the convocation ceremony held at the OGD Lecture Theatre of the university.
The governor emphasised that his administration recognises the crucial role of university education in driving development across various sectors and will continue to invest in infrastructure, capacity building, and initiatives that enhance the quality of education at all levels.
Abiodun said, “Our government is fully committed to the continued development of our university education through the construction of modern lecture halls, state-of-the-art laboratories, student accommodation, and recreational facilities.
“We will also ensure that our universities have access to technology and cutting-edge resources to enhance research, teaching, and learning.”
He commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing NELFUND, which has helped to make education more accessible. He added that the Ogun State Government has also reciprocated this effort by awarding scholarships to thousands of students in the state.
While congratulating the graduands, Abiodun urged them to embrace innovation and problem-solving, stating: “As you step into the world, carry with you the values that have shaped you. Strive to be innovators and problem solvers. Seize opportunities, overcome challenges, and work towards making the world a better place.”
He further noted that education is a shared responsibility and called on well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations to partner with the government in developing the education sector.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, announced that the 34th convocation produced 6,209 graduates, including 571 who received postgraduate and master’s degrees, while 170 obtained PhDs.
A further breakdown revealed that 115 graduands earned First Class honours, 1,845 graduated with Second Class Upper, 3,044 with Second Class Lower, 688 with Third Class, and 35 with a Pass. Additionally, 66 medical students completed their studies.
Agboola highlighted the university’s continuous growth, stating that all its courses have been accredited by the National Universities Commission and that 18 new courses have been introduced.
The Vice-Chancellor commended Governor Abiodun and other philanthropists for their support and investment in academic excellence at the university.
He urged graduates to uphold the institution’s reputation for excellence and make a meaningful impact in society.
Agboola further pledged to use his tenure to promote university education that produces employable graduates and budding entrepreneurs.
A key highlight of the convocation was the decoration of world-renowned ophthalmologist, Dr Kunle Hassan, Chief Executive Officer of Eye Foundation Hospital, with an honorary Doctorate Degree in Science for his invaluable contributions to qualitative healthcare delivery.
In appreciation of the honour, Hassan pledged ₦500 million towards a professorial chair endowment in Ophthalmology and an additional ₦500 million for the university’s further development.
