Samuel Ogunrinde, a rising public administration professional and health informatics specialist, continues to make headlines as a force in the field of public policy and e-governance. He recently earned a Master of Public Administration and a Certificate in Health Informatics from East Carolina University, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. His academic excellence, combined with practical experience, positions him as a promising leader in data-driven governance and community-focused public service.
He was recognized for academic and professional excellence and awarded the university’s Most Outstanding Professional Paper Award in May 2025 and inducted into Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA), the prestigious national honor society for public affairs and administration. PAA, the prestigious national honor society for public affairs and administration, recognizes outstanding graduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a strong commitment to public service. Membership in PAA is a mark of distinction awarded to individuals who rank among the top of their class and exhibit the highest standards of scholarship, integrity, and dedication to the advancement of public affairs.
His wide exposure at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria, where he bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration, already gave him a strong foundation in public policy and analysis. This helped him develop a keen interest in understanding how institutional frameworks and government structures affect service delivery and citizen engagement. He has supported both academic and governmental initiatives in Nigeria aimed at addressing public policy reforms and advancing public sector innovation. Notably, he has conducted impactful research on how digital platforms can be leveraged to improve public participation and government accountability in Lagos, one of Africa’s largest metropolitan areas.
He was recently honored with East Carolina University’s Most Outstanding Professional Paper Award for his research. His approach to evidence-based policymaking and community-centered public service is reflected in his critical analysis of how urban planning and transportation systems intersect with public safety outcomes in North Carolina. His research project, Transportation Infrastructure and Public Safety in Greenville, North Carolina (an award-winning MPA capstone), is both timely and impactful. Across much of the world, including the United States, challenges such as aging infrastructure, traffic congestion, limited public transportation in rural and suburban areas, and safety concerns remain persistent and pressing. Research in this area provides valuable insights for policymaking, and Samuel Ogunrinde’s work contributes meaningfully by identifying infrastructure gaps and proposing targeted, data-driven solutions that can be implemented to improve public safety and mobility equity.
Internationally recognized and nationally celebrated, Ogunrinde’s accomplishments signal the arrival of a new generation of public service professionals who combine analytical acumen with community-focused action. Since we live in an era marked by complex policy challenges and rapid technological change, there is a growing need for public administrators who are not only data-literate and technically skilled but also deeply committed to citizen engagement. This modern public servant should be capable of interpreting data to inform policy and leveraging technology for more inclusive governance. Ogunrinde’s research focus is no doubt essential for building strong institutions in government in the 21st century.
Ogunrinde’s scholarship embodies the future needs of public administration, where intellectual rigor blends with a deep commitment to social impact. As governments worldwide seek to become more responsive, his research will also remain relevant to shape effective and equitable public policy in the modern age.
The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Com. Olusola Ladoja has affirmed he remained the only legitimate, and globally recognised leader of the body.
He maintained that there is no factional leadership in NANS, saying the purported claim of a parallel NANS President as laughable and a pitiable display of imposture.
A statement by Ladoja noted that Atiku, who did not participated in the last convention that ushered in new leadership of the organisation continued parading himself as President.
He described the act as violation and impersonation which shall be met with the full weight of legal and moral consequence.
He said: “It is, therefore, necessary to place on public record that Comrade Olusola Ladoja remains the sole, legitimate, and globally recognized President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), having emerged through a transparent, democratic, and widely monitored electoral process.”
The PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship has been shortlisted for the prestigious SABRE African Public Relations Awards 2025, a milestone for the initiative launched in 2024 to mentor and train young communicators in Nigeria.
The fellowship was established by Image Merchants Promotion Limited, publishers of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, with endorsements from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
In partnership with the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and supported by the MacArthur Foundation, the programme emphasises development journalism, fact-checking, public relations, social media strategy, and AI applications in media.
Other IMPR campaigns shortlisted for SABRE 2025 include “Impact Public Relations in Customs Service” under the Corporate Image category, and “State of Emergency on Education” by the Kano State Government under the Crisis Management category.
The awards, renowned for spotlighting superior achievement in branding, reputation and engagement, will be presented on June 12 during the annual African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference in Mombasa, Kenya.
Hadiza Yusuf Ahmad, Team Lead of the Kano Cohort, said: “This achievement is a big moment for all of us. The fellowship has changed my life, deepened my knowledge, and opened my eyes to the power of communication. Being celebrated on a continental stage is overwhelming and humbling.”
Basheer Luqman Olarewaju, Ilorin Cohort’s Team Lead, described the SABRE nomination as a validation of the fellowship’s excellence. “The initiative continues to be a transformative force in the media space. Congratulations to the team and the young Fellows — pioneers of this remarkable dream.”
Abuja Cohort Leader, Salim Yunusa, remarked: “This nomination is a testament to PRNigeria’s relentless efforts in shaping the future of strategic communication in Nigeria and beyond. The creativity, integrity, and innovation that define our work are being recognized on the continental stage.”
An alumni, Abubakar Musa Idris, praised the program’s founder, Mr. Yushau Shuaib, for his vision: “This recognition reflects the commitment of our mentor and the PRNigeria team. As the best fellow of our cohort, I am proud of our journey; we’ll continue to elevate ethical and impactful communication.”
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) said invitation of students leaders across Ondo State by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to an Easter Retreat from April 17- 20 will deepen student-government collaboration.
The student body lauded the Governor for initiating an exceptional and purpose-driven Easter retreat, dinner and interactive session.
NANS described the invitation, extended to leadership of Student Union Governments across all higher institutions in Ondo State, as a strategic, far-sighted gesture that speaks volumes of the Governor’s progressive disposition, his commitment to participatory governance, and his recognition of the strategic role student leaders play in state development.
A statement by the Chairman, NANS JCC Ondo Axis, Com. Tobiloba Joshua said Aiyedatiwa has chosen dialogue, inclusion and institutional collaboration in an era where students voices are often relegated to the background.
According to the statement, the Governor has once again demonstrated that leadership is not about isolation, but integration by creating space for students leaders to interact directly with the highest office in the state.
According to him: “This retreat transcends the perfunctory. It is a forward-thinking convergence designed to promote intellectual exchange, deepen policy understanding, and foster a culture of mutual respect between student leaders and the government.
“The opportunity to reflect on leadership, responsibility, and the essence of service within the context of the Easter season adds both spiritual depth and moral clarity to the gathering.
“We equally commend the Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Hon. Kevin Solomon Olaolu, for his relentless commitment to bridging the gap between government and the student community.
“His coordination of this initiative underscores his effectiveness, accessibility, and alignment with the administration’s youth-focused agenda.
“As student leaders, we receive this invitation not only with appreciation but with a sense of duty—to contribute meaningfully to the conversations, to engage constructively, and to reaffirm our commitment to a united and progressive Ondo State.
“We are indeed privileged to have a Governor who sees student leaders not as mere agitators but as partners in progress; not as distant spectators, but as stakeholders in the project of state-building.
“May this engagement mark the beginning of a more robust, strategic, and enduring synergy between the government and the student populace. We applaud this visionary initiative, we honour this noble intent and we align with this transformational agenda.”
Human Rights organisations under the auspices of Initiative for Social Right Concern and Advancement (ISRCA) have tasked the government to provide youths with skills acquisition and establish industries that will engage them, insisting it’s the only panacea to curbing crime rates in the country.
The group made this known at the rally to sensitise the youths to abstain from crimes and other forms of criminal activities to live a meaningful life in the society.
Speaking at the rally on Wednesday in Warri, the National Co-ordinator of the organization, Comrade Amb. Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, said the organisation put up this programme due to increase in crime rate as regards kidnapping, armed robbery, and social vices and tasked the youths to shun these heinous crimes and embrace peace.
According to him, part of the reasons the youths engage in criminal activities such as kidnapping, armed robbery and social vices is a result of lack of job opportunities especially for graduates in the country.
He said different universities spring up in the country on daily basis and graduate many students yet, no job opportunities for them.
He asked: “Looking at the ratio of unemployment in Nigeria, we have over two million understates admitted into Nigerian Universities and over six hundred thousand graduates every year, where are the provision by the government to make job opportunities available for the youths?”
The national Co-ordinator of the group said even when empowerment programmes are created by the government, they do not get to the people who really need them but they are done to compensate political parties faithful, which, according to him, does not help matter in this direction.
Agberen urged the youths not to see criminal activities as good ventures but engage in meaningful ventures to make them live life worthy of emulation.
The Human Rights activist who said the organisation has existed for the past three years with the aim of organising symposium, creating awareness by collaborating with relevant agencies to reach government over the plight of the people, will not rest until the society is changed for good.
Agberen said while the government does its part, the parents have the role of monitoring their children and mould their character for good and of course, the society has to add to moral upbringing of the children.
He said: ” The government, parents and the society have roles to play. We all need this collective efforts to shapen the children to be better persons in the society”.
National Secretary of the organisation, Comrade Monday Aberu, said, the increase in crime rate has necessited the programme of this enlightenment as the rate of kidnapping, armed robbery and social vices in the country is alarming.
According to him, for organization to be effective, they have to collaborate the Nigerian Police Force, Delta State Command since they are at the forefront of criminal and crime fight in the society.
National Treasurer of the organisation, Comrade Onotu Solomon, expressed optimism the next three years, the organisation would have succeeded in reaching every nooks and crannies of the society with the message of the need for the youths to shun crime and criminality in the society as, they would always collaborate with law enforcement agencies to achieve this noble objective.
Speaking on female gender, the National Director of the Orientation Bureau, Comrade Mrs Joan Eseoghene Onoruerome advised mothers to always monitor their children/ wards to enable them stay away from crimes.
According to her, mothers have a lot to do spiritually, morally both at home and school in the upbringing of their children/ wards just as she advised the girl-child to shun crime to become better person in the society.
The high point of the rally saw the public address system campaign to motorists plying the road and the one of one reach out to the passersby, including the sharing of fliers to individuals and residents of the area.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) said petitions by a political group, Young Guardians of Accountability (YGA), to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged abuse of office by Minister of Defence, who is also NANS National Patron, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar won’t stand.
The association described the allegations as baseless and politically-motivated aimed at denigrating reputation of a noble statesman and patriotic Nigerian who has remained one of the most prominent and committed figures in public service.
A statement by NANS National President, Com. Olushola Oladoja said Badaru as Jigawa Governor maintained clean record, demonstrating accountability, prudence, and unwavering dedication to national service and effective utilization of state resources.
According to the group: “As Minister of Defence, his performance has brought significant improvement to the nation’s security architecture.
“Today, major highways and former hotspots of violent crimes and kidnappings such as the Abuja-Kaduna road, Akure-Ondo axis, Owerri-Port Harcourt route, and others are experiencing relative peace and safety under his leadership and coordination of security actions.
“The results he has accomplished speak for themselves and annuls all forms of sponsored propaganda against his person and office.
“We strongly advise young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political unrest by desperate politicians with parochial interests and seeking cheap relevance. Being a tool for the destruction of another’s reputation is not only regrettable but detrimental to national development.
“As youths, let us protect the integrity of fellow compatriots who have distinguished themselves in their service to the country rather than become instruments of their sabotage.
“Therefore, we urge the EFCC to treat the said petition with the contempt it deserves and focus its attention on matters of genuine national interest and anti-corruption efforts. Such baseless political blackmail must not be allowed to distract key players in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s, administration.
“The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, remains a stabilizing force in this government. His undeniable accessibility and frequent engagement with youth stakeholders across the country have been instrumental in maintaining political stability and driving the Renewed Hope Agenda without distractions.
“We stand firmly with our National Patron and commend his unwavering service to our great nation. Therefore, we urge our Grand Patron to stand strong and remain steadfast and focused on his task of repositioning Nigeria’s security to address eminent threats and transforming society for the better.”
The Chairman, Ekiti State University Ado-Ekiti, (EKSU) Alumni Association, Ekiti chapter and the Global Public Relations Officer, Adetunji Aribasoye
has urged alumni in various tertiary institutions to play their roles in ensuring University education is improved upon in Nigeria.
He said there is need for alumni of tertiary institutions across the nation to join hands with government towards development their alma mater.
Speaking at the alumni association’s 2025 Annual Lecture and Awards Programme, Aribasoye stated that will enhance growth of the institution as government alone cannot do it.
According to him, government alone cannot successfully fund tertiary institutions.
He said through the assistance of alumni associations, well-to-do individuals and corporate organisations, more funds could be available to tertiary institutions to meet their needs and ensure quality education is delivered”.
Realing out impact of EKSU alumni on the University, he said: “From what we heard from our global president, Amb. Seyi Idowu and our immediate past president, Engr. Dipo Bamisaye, we discovered that EKSU Alumni for example has played a significant role in developing our great alma mater.
“Part of what we did as a body was to sort and look around for individuals with capacity to help, and that was why we were able to get, our own Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and other proud Alumni that have done well for the institution.
“Building a medical hostel, the asphalt laying of EKSU village to the medical school and of course to the campus among many other things that were done. We also have the construction of the second phase of the hostel for the medical students too which we hope will be increased to a thousand one day and a whole lot of programmes we have experienced within the university because of the activities of the alumni association.
“Talking about our endowment fund, every year we raise well over 20 million naira to encourage, appreciate and award deserving students who are doing well in their academics. This year too, the committee, ably led by Dr. Soji Ehinlanwo also did well by raising enough funds for this particular programme.
“The EKSU alumni facilitated a company currently partnering with the Ekiti state government and the department of Agriculture of the institution to train, set up farm, agro processing plant to create jobs even for students while still on campus. All of these were facilitated by EKSU Alumni Association”.
While delivering the annual lecture titled: “Navigating harsh economic downtown: Interrogating the interplay of food security and insecurity on agricultural processes and citizens”, Prof. Olawumi Fapohunda said:”We tried to interrogate Ekiti State government huge investment in agriculture and its impact through the lecture topic which borders on agriculture.To see how the Alumni can also play a part in it”.
On the awards, he said distinguished members of the chapter, the national body and members of the public were also identified for the awards.
“We discovered they were doing so well for our alma mater and the society. Awards were presented to 29 deserving individuals including Governor Biodun Oyebanji, ably represented by his Special Adviser on Tertiary Education, Professor Azeez.
“The Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, received outstanding service leadership award, Commissioner for Trade and Investment Mrs Omotayo Adeola, the EKSU Alumni global president, current and immediate past president were also in attendance to receive award and other eminent individuals within the society.
“We have people from the academics , the banking sector even the governor’s wife , Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji for her impact in advocacy for gender equality and equal right for all” .
In his keynote address, the immediate past global president of the association, Engr. Dipo Bamisaye said the body is
aimed at fostering connections and engagement among members and between the institution and its alumni.
He added that the association had over the years played a pivotal role in the academic, economic, infrastructural development and sustainability of its alma mater throughout the world.
He however said there is need for people to underscore vital functions of Alumni Association to her members and its related institution such as networking for self-reliance, fundraising for needy members, fundraising for Institution, needy students and best minds.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin, an America Diplomat and Writer.
For centuries, universities have been revered as bastions of knowledge, incubators of innovation, and catalysts of progress. Beyond their role in shaping individual minds, they also have a profound impact on the communities and nations they serve.
From addressing pressing societal challenges to driving economic growth, universities are increasingly recognized as essential partners in the pursuit of a better world. By harnessing their intellectual capital, research capabilities, and community engagement initiatives, universities can become powerful agents of transformation.
In Nigeria, for instance, universities are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the country’s development challenges and set the country on a progressive pedestal. Through cutting-edge research, collaborative partnerships, and community outreach programs, these institutions can help to tackle pressing issues such as healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.
These were the ideas and ideals canvassed by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives who was a guest lecturer at the 37th convocation ceremony of University of Calabar, Cross River State on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Titled “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centred Education, The Mandate of Our Universities, 2025-2075,” Kalu delivered a thought-provoking convocation lecture that coincided with the University’s 50th anniversary, forecasting Nigeria’s future through the transformative impact of universities over the next 50 years.
The Deputy Speaker posited that in a world where change is the only constant, education stands as a beacon of hope that can illuminate the path to progress and prosperity.
Undoubtedly, the impact of education is multifaceted, influencing not only individual lives but also the fabric of society. It empowers minds, fosters critical thinking, and encourages innovation. Education is the cornerstone upon which civilizations are built, shaping the leaders of tomorrow and equipping them with the skills necessary to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving world.
For Kalu, the knowledge acquired from the citadels of learning prepares one to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
Enveloped in a wave of nostalgia, the Deputy Speaker stood proudly in Calabar, basking in the thunderous applause from his classmates and other dignitaries in the audience who had gathered en masse to show their solidarity. As a distinguished alumnus, having graduated 27 years ago from the esteemed faculty of law, class of ’98, he embodied the true spirit of the university.
With heartfelt emotion, Kalu shared his poignant reflections, saying that education was evolving, his words resonating deeply, inspiring the young minds and rekindling cherished memories among his peers and indeed, everyone present in the massive hall of Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC), venue of the convocation lecture.
He said: “But as we celebrate this institution’s 50-year legacy, we must recognize that education is evolving. The gown that once walked in town must now navigate cyberspace. When I was a student, technology was a distant dream. We only had a few computers, we searched library shelves for books and found knowledge by sheer luck, we wrote our notes in longhand and treasured them like gold. Today, information moves at the speed of light, knowledge is available at the click of a button, the world has become a digital campus, and screens have become classrooms.
“Yet, with all these advancements, one thing must never change. Education must remain human-centered. Technology must be our servant, not our master. And as we look ahead to the next fifty years, we must ask ourselves: what is the mandate of our universities from 2025 to 2075? How do we sustain quality education in an ever-changing world? How do we ensure that technology serves humanity and not the other way round?
“These are the questions we must answer today. And with that, let us begin our journey into the heart of this lecture. At its core, this topic: ‘Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centred Education, The Mandate of Our Universities, 2025-2075′, invites us to reflect on a simple yet profound idea. Our ‘gown’ represents the academic robe. ‘Our gown in town’ is a symbol of our commitment to education that transcends the boundaries of the classroom and impacts the very fabric of our communities.
“Our universities were established as engines of progress. Today, however, we face problems highlighting a disconnect between academia and everyday life. These problems arise not from a lack of intellect but from a misalignment with society’s needs, as teaching and learning have long been measured solely by academic metrics—the length of dissertations, the complexity of theories, and the splendor of research—rather than their real-world impact.
“The challenge before us is clear: our universities must move beyond theory to practical impact, bringing the “gown” into the “town”—and now, into cyberspace—where knowledge is applied and ideas ignite change. In his seminal book, The School and Society, John Dewey emphasizes the need for education to evolve in tandem with societal changes, cautioning against outdated teaching methods that fail to prepare students for future challenges.
“The true measure of education is its impact on the town. How many university projects directly tackle local challenges like power, healthcare, water access, food security, or transportation? If universities do not first serve their own communities, their achievements risk remaining confined to ivory towers.
“Our research must offer tangible solutions, while graduates must be equipped to address real issues, from policy refinement to sustainable transportation. If the town does not feel the impact of our “gown,” our education is incomplete.
“Our universities are more than centers of learning; they are the backbone of our communities and nation. Their value lies not in certificates but in real-world impact. Institutions must go beyond academic debates, producing research that shapes policies proactively rather than reacting to crises. They should serve as policy hubs, not just locally but globally, proving that when education meets innovation, solutions follow.”
The Deputy Speaker further emphasized that the integration of technology into education has further amplified its impact. According to him, the digital revolution has since democratized access to knowledge, enabling students from all corners of the globe to engage with world-class educational resources.
To this end, online platforms, virtual labs, and interactive tools have transformed the learning experience, making it more immersive, effective, and inclusive.
Kalu also cites some real-world examples, illustrating the profound impact of education on community development.
He said that initiatives such as MIT’s D-Lab, Stanford’s StartX accelerator, and the University of Cape Town’s Water Research Commission demonstrate how academic innovation can be harnessed to address pressing societal challenges, drive economic growth, and improve lives.
“Education must be lifelong. In my own experience, when I was in school, we had only a handful of computers. We used typewriters, not laptops. Today, I am still learning, still evolving. If we expect students to prepare for the future, our educators must also be students themselves. As Alvin Toffler wisely said, “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”
“Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about applying it to shape the future. If our universities fail to adapt, we risk producing graduates unprepared for the world they will inherit.
“Global Examples: Education as a Catalyst for Community Transformation: This is not only applicable in Nigeria; around the world, universities are redefining their roles by aligning research with community needs, and here are a few examples: MIT’s D-Lab: At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the D-Lab initiative has reached over 30 countries, developing low-cost technologies that empower rural communities. By training students to devise sustainable solutions—from solar-powered irrigation systems to low-cost medical devices—MIT has demonstrated that academic excellence and community impact can go hand in hand.
Stanford and Silicon Valley: Stanford University is not only a hub of academic innovation but also a critical driver of economic development in Silicon Valley. With its StartX accelerator, Stanford has helped launch over 200 startups whose collective venture capital funding exceeds $10 billion. This integration of entrepreneurial spirit with academic research has transformed local communities and set a global benchmark for service exports.
“University of Cape Town (UCT): In South Africa, UCT’s Water Research Commission works directly with local municipalities to improve water management. Their projects have directly benefited over a million people by developing strategies to combat water scarcity and improve sanitation—illustrating the direct social impact of focused, community-oriented research.
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): In India, IITs have created incubators that have catalyzed more than 500 startups, generating billions of dollars in revenue. Their approach has not only enhanced local agricultural productivity through smart farming techniques, but also positioned India as a major exporter of technical expertise and services.
“Wageningen University: In the Netherlands, Wageningen University’s cutting-edge agricultural research has been instrumental in boosting yields for smallholder farmers globally, underscoring the power of targeted research in solving real-world food security challenges.
“These examples make it clear: when universities adapt their “gown” to meet the needs of their communities, innovation flourishes, and local challenges become opportunities for transformative change”, he said.
Succinctly put, Kalu’s lecture basically emphasized producing graduates equipped to address real-world issues; conducting research with tangible impact; preparing students for a rapidly changing world; fostering innovation and entrepreneurship; addressing societal challenges; embracing digital transformation and prioritize lifelong learning.
By adopting this forward-thinking approach, universities can empower students to drive positive impact and transformation.
Nwabughiogu is Chief Press Secretary to Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives
As Federal Polytechnic Offa (Fedpoffa) in Kwara State is set to host the 22nd Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) from the first week of April, the representative-body of the National Association of Strategic Communication and Media Students (NASCOMS) of the Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies (SCMS) in the Institution has congratulated the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Kadiri Kamoru, the Dean of School of Communication and Media Studies, Dr. David Oloyede, and the Head of the Department, Dr. Jimoh Olorede, on the hosting rights bestowed on the Polytechnic.
The NASCOMS body in a congratulatory statement by the Public Relations Officer, Mercy Jayeola as well as the Leader, Isaac Komolafe and the Scribe, Tominwa Oloyede said: “Hosting over 50 participating higher institutions across the nation shows the upcoming sporting event is an epoch that would further showcase Dr. Kadiri’s exploits as well as his administration’s milestone since his assumption of office as Rector of the Polytechnic.
“Truly, Fedpoffa is the fastest-growing Polytechnic in Nigeria given the institution’s milestones in the last 33 years of its establishment.”
The statement commended Dr. Kadiri Kamoru-led administration, especially on what it referred to as “applaudable high level of preparedness and readiness” for the games.
“It further stated: “The epoch-making event would afford students from over 50 participating Polytechnics opportunity to explore, deploy and display their talents.
“We extend our commendation to all the stakeholders in Nigerian Polytechnics, as NIPOGA games are designed to promote unity, friendship, and healthy competition among polytechnic students, while also providing a platform for the discovery of new talents and the development of sports in Nigeria.
“As this special event features a range of exciting sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, athletics, and more, we pray for a hitch-free sporting outing with resounding success as participants compete for medals and trophies, with the expected emergence of ‘NIPOGA Champion’ as the overall Winner.”
Following a protest by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC) Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has convened a meeting with student leaders towards addressing their challenges faced by students in the state.
Aiyedatiwa commended the students for their peaceful and well-organized protest, acknowledging their right to demand better conditions for their education.
A statement by NANS JCC Ondo State Axis chairman, Com. Oluwarotimi Joshua said the Governor assured his administration had already taken significant steps to improve education, including increasing subventions to tertiary institutions and ensuring the timely payment of bursaries and scholarships.
According to him: “The Governor directed the Ministry of Infrastructure to commence the rehabilitation of internal roads within tertiary institutions. Although, designs for roads leading to campuses, including Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, have already been completed.
“The government has engaged relevant intervention agencies to expedite work on abandoned hostel projects to improve student accommodation across institutions.
“The Governor instructed the management of the former Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (now Ondo State University of Agriculture and Agribusiness) to commence preparations for the convocation ceremony of students who graduated over the past ten sessions.
“The Governor assured students that security agencies are working collaboratively to maintain peace and safety in the state, including within school environments.
“Discussions also covered the renovation of the NYSC camp in Ikare-Akoko, land disputes at the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, and the provision of buses for Student Union Governments.
“One of the key concerns raised by students was the lack of adequate transportation facilities. The Governor assured that this issue would be addressed, emphasizing that discussions are ongoing to establish a sustainable and effective transportation system for students across the state.”
He expressed appreciation for the prompt response of the Governor commitment to finding solutions to their concerns.
He however said that there will be closely monitoring on how these promises is being implemented to ensure they translate into tangible improvements for students.
