Dare Babalola
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education, describing it as a key pillar of development, as he donated ₦2 million to the overall best graduating student of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU).
Abiodun made the pledge while addressing the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) at the institution’s permanent site in Ago-Iwoye.
He reiterated that education is a priority for his administration, stressing that sustained investment in the sector is vital to shaping Ogun State’s future.
The event was particularly significant as it coincided with Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, with Governor Abiodun noting that the university stands proudly among the legacies of this defining milestone in the state’s history.
Governor Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, praised OOU for producing graduates who are competent, innovative, and ready for the future, while maintaining high standards of discipline and service.
He commended the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Toyin Ashiru, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, and members of the Governing Council and Senate for sustaining the university’s ideals.
Abiodun said, “The 35th Convocation celebrates academic excellence, access, and institutional relevance.
“By placing reliable data at the centre of decision-making, our administration has enhanced transparency, improved outcomes, and ensured that every intervention across the education value chain is strategic and measurable.”
The Governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to education, noting that ₦275.4 billion – 17% of the state’s ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget – has been allocated to the sector.
“This reflects our determination to expand access to quality education, reduce inequality, and ensure no child is left behind, regardless of background or location,” he said.
Governor Abiodun congratulated the graduating students, urging them to continue learning, asking questions, and serving as ambassadors of the university.
He demonstrated his support for academic excellence by donating ₦500,000 to each of the university’s 13 best graduating students and ₦2 million to Master Ajayi David, the overall best graduating student from the Faculty of Engineering.
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Agboola praised OOU’s tradition of excellence, noting that the university currently ranks 16th nationally among 321 Nigerian universities, based on academic visibility, research output, and web presence. He highlighted that the university is second only to LAUTECH among state-owned institutions in Nigeria.
Professor Agboola also commended Governor Abiodun for prioritizing education as a catalyst for holistic and transformative development, reaffirming OOU’s commitment to advancing a knowledge-driven economy anchored on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development aligned with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
