View Niger Delta as a Hub of Innovation, Student Leaders Urge Authorities
By Exponent News Akure 8th October,2025
Gov Aiyedatiwa Pledges More Investments in Education Infrastructure, Student Welfare
– Meets student leaders, reaffirms commitment to technical education and youth development
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended student leaders across tertiary institutions in the state for their maturity and peaceful conduct, attributing the prevailing harmony in the education sector to their responsible engagement.
Speaking during a meeting with student representatives at the Governor’s Office in Akure on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that since assuming office, there had been no reports of student unrest or violent agitations—a situation he credited to the students’ discipline and constructive dialogue.
“I want to commend all of you for the way and manner you have been conducting yourselves. Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest. You have engaged constructively without any form of violent agitation,” he said.
Acknowledging the economic challenges occasioned by national reforms, the Governor urged patience, assuring the students that the current hardship was temporary and that the policies were already yielding positive results.
“It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are producing results and improving the economy. Without these reforms, Nigeria would be in a worse state today,” he added.
Call for Collaboration on Infrastructure, Hostels
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in addressing accommodation challenges, stressing that government alone cannot meet all infrastructural needs. He called on private investors to complement government efforts by building hostels within and around campuses.
“Government cannot provide everything. Resources are limited. That’s why we’re calling on investors to build hostels near campuses. It’s a viable venture that also enhances student safety,” he stated.
He highlighted key infrastructure projects being executed across the state, including the reconstruction of the Akungba–Ikare road, which he said was initiated to reduce accidents and boost economic activities in the area.
“We had to reconstruct that road due to the high rate of accidents near Akungba University. It’s a technical road, but we’ve started it and we will complete it,” he assured.
Focus on Technical and Vocational Education
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s focus on technical and vocational education, describing it as crucial for industrial development and employment generation.
“We’re paying more attention to technical education. Investors are coming and they will need skilled labour,” he said.
He also pledged to swiftly resolve electricity challenges at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), to boost academic and research productivity.
As part of efforts to enhance student welfare, the Governor announced the approval of five new buses for student bodies across tertiary institutions, with a promise of more to come. He also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting students through scholarships, grants, and other financial aid programmes.
Stakeholders Commend Governor’s Youth-Friendly Policies
Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, praised the Governor’s continuous engagement with the youth, describing him as a listening leader who genuinely cares about their development.
He lauded the administration for approving double bursaries and scholarships—a first in the state’s history—and for initiating an under-17 football competition to empower young people.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), expressed appreciation for the Governor’s calm and inclusive leadership.
“In the history of student unionism in this state, peace and order have been sustained because of your leadership. You’ve been a father figure, and we appreciate the increased bus allocation and support for private institutions,” he said.
Student Leaders Present Demands, Call for Innovation-Driven Development
Student leaders used the opportunity to present pressing concerns and recommendations for the education sector.
President of the Niger Delta Students’ Union, Comrade Martins Ayemoluwa, urged authorities to view the Niger Delta as a hub of innovation and investment, rather than limiting its potential to oil exploration. He advocated improved solar energy infrastructure and the establishment of a marine science research centre in the state.
Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Ondo State Chapter), Comrade Precious Ikuenomore, called for greater protection of female students. She highlighted the vulnerability of female hostels located far from the University of Medical Sciences campus and urged the government to prioritize their safety.
NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade Mayomi Adekanye, appreciated the Governor’s initiatives but called for sustained action on accommodation and transport challenges.
In the same vein, NAOSS President, Comrade Temitope Alade, called for the establishment of security outposts near campuses and the revival of NDDC scholarships. NAUS Chairman, Comrade Adegoriola Abejoye, acknowledged the Governor’s fulfilment of 80% of past promises but appealed for faster delivery of buses, road repairs, and employment opportunities for student stakeholders.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Dignitaries at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro; Chairman, OSOPADEC, Prince Biyi Poroye; Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Mr Benedict Gbayisemore; Senior Special Assistant on Sports, Mr Kehinde Akinrotoye; alongside several representatives from student unions across the state.
