Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has thrown his weight behind the forthcoming FUTA-led Colloquium of Tertiary Institutions in Ondo State, describing the initiative as timely and aligned with his administration’s commitment to educational advancement.
The one-day event, scheduled to be held on June 3, 2025, at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), is themed “Fostering Collaboration and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.” It will bring together tertiary institutions across the state in a bid to strengthen town-and-gown relations and foster innovation through strategic partnerships.
Governor Aiyedatiwa gave his endorsement on Tuesday, May 20, during a courtesy visit by members of the colloquium planning committee, led by Professor Tomola Obamuyi of FUTA.
“Education is one of the major priorities of our administration, and we will continue to support initiatives that enhance the sector,” the governor said. “This colloquium aligns with our vision to position Ondo State as a leader in qualitative education at all levels. We are fully behind it and will be well represented.”
The governor also agreed to serve as Chief Host of the event.
Speaking on the purpose of the colloquium, Professor Obamuyi explained that it is an initiative of FUTA Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, and is supported by all tertiary institutions in the state. He said the colloquium aims to:
- Promote collaboration between academia, government, development partners, and other stakeholders;
- Enhance research and innovation to tackle local and global challenges;
- Develop actionable ideas to address economic, environmental, and societal issues; and
- Boost employability and entrepreneurial skills among graduates of participating institutions.
Highlighting the calibre of speakers expected at the event, Obamuyi disclosed that Professor Olufemi Bamiro, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, and Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, Deputy Managing Director of UBA, will deliver keynote addresses.
He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s “unwavering dedication to education” and praised his administration’s fiscal responsibility, citing the reduction of the state’s domestic debt by 82.6% in one year as a significant achievement.
“The governor’s vision for a knowledge-driven Ondo State perfectly aligns with the goals of the colloquium,” Obamuyi added.
The event is expected to strengthen the synergy between academia and society, positioning the state as a hub for research-driven and innovation-led development.
