Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has declared that education remains the foundation of sustainable development and the most reliable path to securing the future of the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to continuous investment in the sector.
Abiodun stated this at the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, held at the institution’s permanent site in Ago Iwoye. The ceremony also formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of Ogun State.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako Oyedele, described OOU as one of the enduring legacies of the state, noting that the university has continued to justify its establishment through the quality of graduates it produces.
He said, “Education remains the future of Ogun State and the cornerstone of our developmental agenda. Our administration will continue to invest in the education sector because it is the surest way to build a prosperous, inclusive, and competitive society.”
Abiodun commended the university for producing disciplined, innovative, and future ready graduates, adding that the institution has maintained relevance through its commitment to excellence, research, and service to society.
He also praised the Pro Chancellor, Professor Toyin Ashiru, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, members of the Governing Council, and the Senate for sustaining high academic and moral standards.
“The 35th Convocation is a celebration of academic excellence, access, and institutional relevance,” the governor said. “By placing reliable data at the centre of our decision making, we have enhanced transparency, improved outcomes, and ensured that every intervention across the education value chain is strategic and measurable.”
Highlighting the state government’s financial commitment to education, Abiodun disclosed that ₦275.4 billion, representing 17 percent of the ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget, was allocated to the sector.
“This level of investment reflects our determination to expand access to quality education, reduce inequality, and ensure that no child is left behind, irrespective of background or location,” he added.
Congratulating the graduating students, the governor urged them to remain lifelong learners and worthy ambassadors of the university. He encouraged them to use their knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to national development.
As a demonstration of his administration’s support for academic excellence, Abiodun announced a donation of ₦500,000 each to the 13 best graduating students from the university’s faculties and ₦2 million to the overall best graduating student, Master Ajayi David of the Faculty of Engineering.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Agboola, said OOU has sustained a strong tradition of excellence and continues to improve its national standing.
According to him, the university currently ranks 16th among 321 universities in Nigeria, based on academic visibility, research output, and web presence, while ranking second among state owned universities, behind only LAUTECH.
Professor Agboola commended Governor Abiodun for prioritising education, describing it as a catalyst for holistic and transformative development.
He said, “The consistent support of the Ogun State Government has strengthened our capacity to drive innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development in line with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
