Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged to tackle the financial challenges confronting Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), while praising the institution for its contributions to intellectual growth and human capital development within and outside the state.
Speaking at the university’s 14th convocation ceremony, during which 5,799 students were awarded degrees, the governor—who serves as the Visitor to the institution—commended the university’s leadership for successfully guiding AAUA through difficult periods.
Represented at the event by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, Aiyedatiwa congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to strive for excellence while serving as worthy ambassadors of both the university and Ondo State. He also assured the institution of the government’s commitment to resolving its funding constraints.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, reiterated the council’s determination to sustain and enhance the university’s standing within the global academic community. He noted that with adequate funding, AAUA has the potential to emerge as Nigeria’s foremost centre of knowledge and research and rank among the world’s best universities. To achieve this, he advocated an annual subvention of ₦12 billion.
Dr. Abayomi added that the council has provided effective oversight and worked closely with the university Senate to introduce innovative approaches aimed at ensuring steady growth and comprehensive institutional development.
“Our vision of positioning the university on the global stage requires the collective support of all stakeholders,” he said, stressing that renewed commitment to the ideals of the institution’s founders underscores the determination to overcome challenges and attain academic excellence.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, in his address, highlighted the significant progress made by the university during his five-year tenure, noting that AAUA has maintained its reputation as a leading hub for teaching, learning, and research.
He disclosed that 32 students graduated with First Class Honours out of the total 5,799 graduands, made up of 5,251 undergraduates, 526 postgraduates, and 22 diploma students. Prof. Ige also announced automatic employment for the First Class graduates after the completion of their National Youth Service.
Urging all graduates to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and excellence instilled by the institution, the Vice-Chancellor described convocation ceremonies as reminders that education is a lifelong pursuit requiring commitment and resilience.
He encouraged the graduates to proudly carry the ideals of Adekunle Ajasin University wherever their journeys take them, advising them to seek not just personal success but meaningful impact, and to remember that true leadership is defined by service and positive influence on others.
