The Governor of Ondo State and Visitor to Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has paid a glowing tribute to the first civilian Governor of the State, the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, for his leadership and dedication to democratic principles.

Aiyedatiwa described late Ajasin as an epitome of integrity, honesty, selflessness, and excellence, who made remarkable contributions to education, politics, and nation-building.

He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the first International Conference, held in honour of Chief Ajasin, as part of the University’s 25th-anniversary celebrations.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Education, Dr. Olawumi Ilawole, Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed the theme of the conference, “Education, Politics, and Nation-Building: A Reflection on the Life and Philosophy of Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin,” emphasising the impact of Ajasin’s life on Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

He noted that his administration would continue to uphold the legacies of Ondo State’s founding fathers.

“We are committed to sustaining these legacies,” the governor stated, adding that his administration has improved teaching and learning across all levels of education.

He cited government intervention programmes focusing on human capital and infrastructural development, aiming to enhance education standards and ensure better facilities for students and educators.

The Governor expressed pride in the university’s achievements over the past 25 years, congratulating its management, staff, and alumni for consistently upholding academic excellence and making outstanding contributions to various professional fields.

In his address, a leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, and elder statesman, Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa, OFR, spoke passionately about Chief Ajasin’s enduring commitment to free education, a principle he pursued out of genuine belief in the value of education.

Arogbofa emphasised that Ajasin’s free education policy was not a populist move but was rooted in the belief that a sound mind in a sound body was essential for a progressive society.

He further stated that Chief Ajasin was the longest-serving executive connected with free education in Nigeria, first implementing it in the Western Region and later expanding it across all educational levels in Ondo State.

The Vice Chancellor of AAUA, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, reaffirmed the university’s dedication to the founding mission of self-reliance and service to humanity.

Prof. Ige said the silver jubilee celebration was a significant milestone, marking a quarter-century of commitment to academic excellence, character building, and societal impact.

He added that the celebration was a reflection of the university’s dedication to commemorating its achievements, reflecting on its rich history, and engaging closely with its cherished community.

He revealed that the late Ajasin was a visionary leader whose life and times impacted many lives in the country.

The VC thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for his staunch support for the university.