Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially renamed The Polytechnic Ibadan after the late former governor, Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo, in recognition of his contributions to education and public service.
Makinde made the announcement on Thursday during the state’s interdenominational funeral service held in honour of Olunloyo at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Liberty Road, Ibadan.
Olunloyo, who passed away on April 6, 2025, was the pioneer principal of The Polytechnic Ibadan and served briefly as Oyo State governor from October to December 1983.
Speaking at the event, Makinde said the renaming of the institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan is part of efforts to immortalise a man who left a lasting mark on the state.
“Baba Olunloyo was the first Principal of The Polytechnic Ibadan. Today, as a mark of honour, that institution will now be named Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan,” the governor declared.
He described the late Olunloyo as a scholar, technocrat, statesman, and a man of deep conviction whose influence extended beyond Oyo State to Nigeria as a whole.
“Baba left an enduring footprint in Oyo State and the country. His achievements, his intellect, and his personality cannot be summarised in one sentence,” Makinde added.
The funeral ceremony, which marked the final leg of week-long activities to celebrate Olunloyo’s life, drew dignitaries from across the state and beyond, including Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, former deputy governors, political leaders, and prominent Ibadan indigenes.
In his sermon, retired Methodist Archbishop of Ilesa and Ibadan, Ayo Ladigbolu, described Olunloyo as a role model of integrity and a leader who demonstrated intellectual excellence throughout his life.
