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The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has once again pledged his administration’s dedication to settle all unpaid financial responsibilities linked to the exclusive ownership deal of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology by Osun State.

Makinde provided confirmation at the university’s 18th graduation ceremony in Ogbomoso, where he characterized the institution’s development as a demonstration of “resilience, excellence, and realized vision.”

Shown by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, the governor reminded of his pledge before the 2019 election to bring back the institution’s former prestige.

“Several months prior to the 2019 election, I was here and pledged to restore LAUTECH to its former excellence. Now, it’s fair to state that we are seeing that commitment come true,” he mentioned.

Makinde credited the renewed stability at the university to the settlement of the long-standing ownership conflict between Oyo and Osun states, which ended with Oyo taking complete authority over the institution.

As he stated, the agreement involved substantial financial obligations, which his administration has always fulfilled.

We have maintained payments under the exclusive ownership agreement with Osun State,” he stated. “I want to assure you, we will not fail to meet our commitments. By the end of this administration, all outstanding debts will be completely settled.

He observed that the resolution has brought about greater institutional stability, continuous academic schedules, and revived investor trust.

“When leadership is focused, and stakeholders are aligned, institutions thrive,” he added.

In addition to addressing financial responsibilities, the governor emphasized strategic investments designed to raise the university to international levels.

He revealed that the state government approved a ₦650 million initial grant for the institution’s Teaching and Research Farm to enhance agricultural innovation.

“Our goal is well-defined. LAUTECH should not only be the top university in Nigeria, but it should also stand out compared to top institutions throughout Africa and beyond,” Makinde said.

He also emphasized the significance of the Iseyin campus, especially the transfer of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources, calling it a step in line with larger economic objectives.

This is the way universities should operate in the 21st century as catalysts for economic change,” he stated. “By enhancing this campus, we are connecting education with food security, youth employment, growth in agribusiness, and farming that relies on technology.

In his speech, Vice-Chancellor Razaq Kalilu revealed that 10,223 students received their degrees during the graduation events.

“7,641 students received their first degrees, and 2,582 obtained postgraduate diplomas and advanced qualifications,” he stated.

He mentioned that 137 students earned First Class honors, with the top graduate, Oladepo Caleb Olugbenga, achieving a CGPA of 4.89 in Electronic and Electrical Engineering.

Additionally, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ayodeji Omole, stated that the university has continued to hold its top position despite facing operational difficulties.

“We continue to hold our position as the top state university in Nigeria and are among the top institutions on the African continent,” he stated, adding that expansion is placing increased strain on facilities and supplies.

In the meantime, Olu Aina, Chairman of the Osun State Committee dealing with the LAUTECH ownership controversy, who has been awarded a Doctor of Letters degree, shared his thoughts on the choice to transfer control to Oyo State.

“I approached that task with a specific goal of resolving the conflict between Oyo and Osun,” he stated.

What we ought to have been discussing was the well-being of staff and students, rather than extending the conflict.

Aina insisted that the choice was favorable for every party involved, stating, “If given the chance once more, we would make the same decision.”

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).