Ado-Ekiti witnessed a grand occasion as Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, attended the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU). The event brought together dignitaries, academics, and students in celebration of the institution’s achievements.
During the ceremony, the university conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree on Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. Senator Akpabio, while acknowledging the significance of the award, stated, “A man of excellence and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele is a distinguished figure who deserves nothing less than this honor. It is for this reason I considered it imperative to be here today to celebrate with him.”
Senator Akpabio commended the people of Ekiti State for their commitment to education, highlighting that the state has produced the highest number of professors in Nigeria. “When it comes to education, Ekiti State stands tall. Their hunger for knowledge is unmatched. But let’s not forget, they are also champions of petition writing,” he said.
He praised Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and the university’s management for their dedication to improving education in the state. He noted that Ekiti State University is now ranked as the best state university in Nigeria and the 12th best university in the country. “This is no small feat. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in making this institution a citadel of excellence,” he stated.
Senator Akpabio spoke on the role of education in combating insecurity, stating that children raised with a strong academic foundation would not consider joining banditry. “When children grow up with the right values and a solid education, they think of greatness, not destruction,” he said.
He announced a personal donation of ₦100 million to the university to support its development. “This institution is well-structured, but there is a glaring issue of maintenance. I am taking it upon myself, alongside the Senate and the state government, to change this narrative,” he stated.
He addressed infrastructural concerns, particularly the 17-kilometer federal road leading to the university. He acknowledged that Governor Oyebanji had completed the road despite it being a federal project and pledged that the federal government would refund the expenses. “The governor has done what many would not, and I assure you, he will not bear the burden alone. The federal government will ensure reimbursement and commit to further road projects within the university and across the state,” he affirmed.
Senator Akpabio stated that the Senate and federal government would work closely with the state administration to enhance the university’s infrastructure and learning environment. “We are not just here to celebrate; we are here to build, to transform, and to create lasting change,” he said.
He described Governor Oyebanji as the most gentle and humble governor in Nigeria, commending his leadership style and commitment to development. “Governor Biodun Oyebanji is the most gentle and humble governor in Nigeria. His approach to governance is commendable, and his dedication to the progress of this state is evident,” Akpabio stated.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, and senate members expressed optimism about the commitments made by the Senate President, seeing them as a step toward addressing key challenges facing the university.
The convocation ceremony concluded with assurances from Senator Akpabio that the university and the state would continue to receive the necessary support to enhance academic excellence and infrastructural development.
