By Otitoju Femi
A delegation of Ogbomoso indigenes resident in Ekiti State recently paid a solidarity visit to the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, in his office.
The visit, according to the delegation, was to congratulate the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and to assure him of their continued support.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Amos Adelani, congratulated Professor Ogunwole and offered prayers for a successful tenure.
“On behalf of the sons and daughters of Ogbomoso in Ekiti State, we congratulate you on your appointment. We pray that the God who granted King Solomon wisdom will also grant you the wisdom to succeed in the tasks ahead,” he said.
He further assured the Vice-Chancellor of the community’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the university.
“We have individuals who can contribute to the growth and development of this university. We are always available to support you,” Adelani added.
He also appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to consider qualified indigenes of Ogbomoso for admission into the university, provided they meet the required criteria.
“We humbly appeal that candidates from Ogbomoso who meet the minimum admission requirements be given due consideration. We also have qualified individuals who can contribute to the university workforce,” he said.
Adelani highlighted the presence of skilled artisans within the community, including builders, painters, and suppliers of construction materials, noting their readiness to support ongoing and future projects in the institution.
Another member of the delegation, Mr. Ogunwole Johnson, called for sustained engagement between the university and the Ogbomoso community in Ekiti State.
“We request that a liaison officer be designated to interface with us regularly, considering the busy schedule of the Vice-Chancellor,” he said.
He also commended Professor Ogunwole’s achievements during his previous tenure at Bowen University, expressing confidence in his leadership.
“Your achievements at Bowen University were remarkable, and we believe you will surpass them here at FUOYE,” he added.
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the delegation for the visit and acknowledged their support during his inauguration, particularly the role played by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye.
“I sincerely appreciate your visit and the warm reception accorded His Royal Majesty, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, during my inauguration. That gesture remains memorable,” he said.
Addressing the request for a liaison representative, Professor Ogunwole designated Mr. Oyelude Yekeen, a staff member of the university, as the contact person between FUOYE and the Ogbomoso community.
On the issue of admissions, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized fairness and adherence to due process.
“Admission into FUOYE is strictly merit-based. If candidates from Ogbomoso meet the required criteria, they will certainly be considered. It would not be appropriate to prioritise any group at the expense of others,” he stated.
He further noted the highly competitive nature of admissions into the university.
“FUOYE is among the most sought-after universities in Nigeria, attracting applications from across the country. Therefore, all admission processes must be handled with utmost fairness and seriousness,” he added.
Regarding employment opportunities, Professor Ogunwole explained that recruitment in federal universities follows established government procedures.
“Employment is guided by laid-down processes, including approvals from the Federal Ministry of Education and the Office of the Head of Service. Even when requests are made, the number of approved positions may be limited,” he explained.
On the engagement of artisans, he advised the group to liaise with contractors handling projects within the university.
“You can work through contractors, and as we observe the quality of your work, there may be opportunities for further engagement,” he said, while stressing the importance of quality delivery.
The Vice-Chancellor also spoke on the values and identity of the Ogbomoso people.
“Ogbomoso people are known for their distinct values, particularly their strong commitment to faith and culture. I am proud to be identified with Ogbomoso,” he remarked.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a gift to the Vice-Chancellor by the delegation.
Dignitaries present at the meeting included Professor Adebola Adewumi Aderibigbe, Special Technical Adviser to the Vice-Chancellor; Mrs. Oyeyimika Koyejo Fashaki, Director of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office; and Dr. Sunday Saanu, Director of the Directorate of Information, Protocol and Public Affairs (DIPAC).
Members of the Ogbomoso delegation included Mr. Oyelude Yekeen, Mr. Adeolu Adeeyo, Mrs. Agboola Bola, Mr. Aderemi Adeleke, Mr. Oyetunde Oyelola, Mr. Odebukola Paul, Mr. Olarinde Magbeleola, Mr. Adekola Taiwo, Mr. Ayanwuyi David Abiodun, Mr. Omobolayi Mathew, Mr. Adeniran Joshua, and Mr. Amos Adewole.
Photo Credit: Toye Fisher
