ILARO, Ogun State – The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, is set to become the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro (FUTI). The National Association of University Students (NAUS) celebrated this major development. They described the Ilaro Poly to Federal University conversion as a “monumental leap” for Ogun West. NAUS also called it a transformative milestone in Nigeria’s educational story.
The exciting news came after Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had signed the bill into law. Reacting, Comrade Meshach Anthony Nwankwo, Deputy National President of NAUS, declared, “This is not just a victory for Ogun West; it is a profound testament to what visionary leadership can achieve.”
Nwankwo offered strong commendation for President Tinubu’s proactive approach to education. He stated, “President Tinubu has demonstrated, once again, that education is not just policy — it is a pathway to national prosperity.”
Champions of FUTI Ilaro Conversion Honored
Warm praise from NAUS also went to Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi. As the bill’s sponsor, his years of determined advocacy were credited with turning this dream into reality.
“Senator Yayi has rewritten the narrative of Ogun West. He is not just a lawmaker; he is an architect of educational justice,” Nwankwo affirmed. He highlighted Yayi’s persistent legislative efforts dating back to 2016.
Senator Yayi himself expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for the approval. He noted, “My senatorial district was the only one in Ogun State without a federal university. We are very grateful to the President for seeing the merit in establishing a university of technology in the industrial hub of the state.”
Community and State Collaboration Applauded
Recognizing crucial local support, NAUS applauded Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for being a “partner in educational progress.” The student body encouraged continued collaboration between state and federal governments. Their shared goal is to ensure the new Ilaro Poly to Federal University, FUTI, becomes a national model of excellence.
Traditional leaders also received accolades, particularly the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle. “Kabiyesi has been a rock of wisdom, stability, and cultural strength. His moral leadership has shaped this victory,” said Nwankwo.
The establishment of FUTI marks a historic first: the premier federal university in Ogun West. High expectations are set for it to drive significant economic and technological advancement in the region.
Amid Celebration, A Call for Broader Education Reform
While celebrating this significant institutional upgrade, NAUS also seized the moment to emphasize the urgent need for systemic educational reform across the nation.
“We must not abandon our existing universities. Many of them suffer from infrastructure decay and inadequate funding,” Nwankwo cautioned with concern. He strongly urged the Federal Government to fulfill its agreements with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). He also called for widespread challenges in higher education to be addressed.
NAUS concluded its message with a powerful call to action for students and all citizens: “Let this new university be both a symbol of fulfilled vision and a reminder of the work ahead. The classroom remains Nigeria’s most strategic battlefield.” This reaffirmed their commitment as vigilant advocates for truly transformative education nationwide.
By Abiodun Labi
