Abiodun Puts Education First at OOU Convocation, Rewards Excellence with N2m Prize
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed education as a central pillar of his administration’s development agenda, pledging sustained investment in the sector as a pathway to long-term growth and social advancement.
The Governor stated this at the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), held at the institution’s permanent campus in Ago-Iwoye.
The event coincided with the celebration of Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, which Abiodun described as a milestone that highlights OOU as one of the state’s enduring educational legacies.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Governor praised the university for producing competent, innovative, and future-ready graduates, while upholding standards of discipline, research, 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 institution’s academic ideals.
Abiodun noted that the 35th Convocation reflects OOU’s relevance in national development, stressing that his administration’s data-driven approach to governance has enhanced transparency and ensured that educational interventions are strategic and result-oriented.
Highlighting the state’s commitment to education, the Governor disclosed that ₦275.4 billion—representing 17 per cent of Ogun State’s ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget—has been allocated to the education sector to expand access, reduce inequality, and guarantee inclusive learning opportunities.
He congratulated the graduating students and urged them to embrace lifelong learning and responsible citizenship. As a mark of support for academic excellence, the Governor announced cash awards of ₦500,000 each to 13 best graduating students across the faculties, and ₦2 million to Master Ajayi David of the Faculty of Engineering, who emerged as the overall best graduating student.
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Agboola disclosed that OOU currently ranks 16th among 321 universities in Nigeria, based on academic visibility, research output, and web presence, and second only to LAUTECH among state-owned universities.
He also commended Governor Abiodun for prioritising education as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development, reaffirming the university’s commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and the advancement of a knowledge-driven economy aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
