Opinion
Federal Polytechnic, Ayede: Two Years of Progress
In line with the determination of his administration to make tertiary education more accessible to young Nigerians, former President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2021, just about two years ago, established the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, in Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo state, alongside five other Polytechnics.
The President thereafter approved the appointments of eminent Nigerians, seasoned administrators, and core professionals as management teams and members of the Governing Council for the institution.
Pioneer Chairman, Federal Polytechnic Ayede Governing Council, Professor Dakas J Dakas, SAN
Interestingly, a highly revered Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, and a detribalised leader, Professor Dakas J Dakas was appointed as the pioneer Chairman of the governing council while a scholar of no mean stature, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed became the Rector.
Pioneer Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed
The Registrar, Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Mr Akin Odesola
Moments after his historic appointment, the Rector, and his management team settled down to rigorous work, and as a visionary and focused leader with the political will towards making the institution envious of all, Dr. Abdul-hameed-led management commenced and concluded the recruitment process for various positions in academic and non-academic cadres.
The Bursar, Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Alhajia Rasheedat Oladepo
The Polytechnic’s Librarian, Dr Samuel Oke Oguniyi
Even though the management team is not resting on its oars to ensure that the citadel of learning is growing daily, it would be placed on record that the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, is becoming the fastest-growing among its contemporaries. The institution, after inspection by a team of inspectors from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), had successfully secured approval to run four courses while efforts are ongoing to secure approval for about fifteen more courses.
The approved courses are Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology, and Statistics respectively. In addition, Federal Polytechnic, Ayede (FEDPA), has not only completed admission processes and matriculated its 211 pioneer students but also commenced the first semester examinations at the Iresa-Pupa temporary site for the 2022/2023 academic session.
Although, with these remarkable achievements, opinion molders and observers were of the view that the Dr. Abdul-hameed -led FEDPA management team has reached its crescendo, however, to the University of Ilorin trained electrical engineer, the only reward for success is continuous hard work.
Addressing the staff recently at a two-day orientation workshop organised by the institution, the Rector said, “The federal polytechnic, Ayede was established in 2021, just about two years ago, alongside five other polytechnics. Ever since then, the management team in conjunction with the Governing Council have been working hard to ensure that this institution is growing daily.
“When you talk about the fastest growing polytechnic among its peers, sincerely yours, it’s not an understatement, Federal Polytechnic, Ayede stands out among the remaining five. Even though we were granted only four programmes to commence with, none of the other five polytechnics has been granted a single one. So, when we say we are the fastest growing polytechnic, it is not as if I am being boastful, but saying this to encourage us that we as foundation staff of this institution, still have a lot to do, to improve at the present level ”.
As a relationship expert, Dr. Abdul-hameed has enjoyed a worthwhile relationship and conflict-free administration, especially with the Governing Council, principal officers, staff, the institution’s stakeholders, and the host communities. It is indeed imperative to state that over these past two (2) years, the Polytechnic under Dr. Abdul-hameed’s focused leadership has witnessed reasonable growth, as his efforts have not only attracted remarkable development to Federal Polytechnic, Ayede (FEDPA) using his networks and influence but has also opened up the fledging institution to great opportunities in a few years to come.
The Polytechnic has received various support including the donation of staff quarters by former Senator Ayo Adeseun, the donation of four blocks of classrooms and offices at the Iresa-Pupa temporary site, the donation of a bus by Hon. Sunday Dare, former Minister for Youths and Sports and an indigene of Ogbomoso, in addition to the four vehicles procured by the management, comprising three Hilux pickups and one Toyota sixteen seater bus.
Others are the donation of laptops among other office equipment worth six million naira by the Ogbomoso Consultative Council (OCC), led by a former military governor of Oyo and Ogun states, Maj. General Oladayo Popoola (retd.) and the Pivotal Club of Ogbomoso supported the institution’s ICT centre with the sum of one million naira (N1m) respectively.
Despite the multifarious challenges confronting the institution, the two -years of Dr. Abdul-hameed’s led management, have been eventful as it has recorded several breakthroughs on many fronts. The rector and his team remain undeterred, but rather committed to enthroning a culture of excellence and effective service delivery in all segments of the Polytechnic.
Having realised that the federal government alone can no longer shoulder the responsibility in the education sector, the management has successfully established a business venture for the institution, not only to boost its Internally Generated Revenue but to meet the needs of the institution, in the areas of staff and students welfare. At different fora, the Rector had not only allayed the fears over the alleged relocation of the institution but as well discarded the misconception that Ayede, which is its permanent site, has been shortchanged. But, he has also assured that all projects from the previous and 2023 budgets would be concentrated on the permanent site.
In his words, “It is a truism that Ayede remains the permanent site of the institution and nothing, whatsoever, can tamper it. It is a government policy. When you go to Abuja, all the documents bear the name Ayede. If you go to the permanent site now, roads are being constructed. All projects from the 2022 and 2023 budgets are being concentrated on the permanent site. Most of what you see at the temporary site here at Iresa -Pupa are donations from people, including this administrative building. We are working towards ensuring that we move to the permanent site before the expected time”, Abdul-Hameed noted.
Today, massive infrastructure development is ongoing at the polytechnic’s permanent site, Ayede, in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo state. No fewer than eleven (11) buildings, including the administrative office housing fifty offices, lecture theatre, and classrooms among others nearing completion.
Understanding that human capacity plays an important role in the overall success of any organisation as its increased productivity level depends on the level of competence of its workforce, the Rector has been committed to human capital development through various training, retraining, seminars, and workshops to develop staff abilities to function effectively and efficiently in the institution.
As part of his welfare efforts, the Rector provided an end-of-a-year package for all the staff and the host community. Also, in his resolve to make the daunting challenge of electricity in the Polytechnic a thing of the past, due to erratic power supply, Dr. Abdul-Hameed – led administration has procured a 500KVA Mikano generator. Without much ado, the Polytechnic Rector has expressed his determination on producing students who are not only productive but also functional and active employers of labour with the skills of impacting positively in society.
Unveiling his vision for the institution, Dr. Abdul-Hameed said: “The Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State has hit the ground running, commencing her journey to become a positive subject of global attention in providing functional and technical education geared towards making our graduates employers of labour.”
The remarkable and steady growth of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo state, in the past two years under the leadership of Dr. Abdul-Hameed has overwhelmed the ‘doubting Thomases’, judging by various innovation the founding Rector has brought into the system with a rare gusto and determination.
Idowu Ayodele; writes from Oyo State, Nigeria.
Growing support has continued to trail a youthful politician and technology advocate, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega, popularly known as Repete, as many youths in Ibadan North Federal Constituency expressed confidence in his leadership style and vision for development.
Across several communities within the constituency, residents, particularly students, artisans and young professionals, described Repete as one of the emerging political figures with strong grassroots appeal and a passion for youth empowerment.
Supporters said his growing popularity stems from his consistent advocacy for innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development aimed at addressing unemployment and creating opportunities for young people.
As an engineer and technology enthusiast, Repete is also said to possess a deep understanding of the evolving digital economy and the need to position youths for global competitiveness.
Many of his supporters noted that his approach to leadership focuses on practical solutions, mentorship and capacity-building initiatives capable of helping young people become self-reliant and economically productive.
Some community stakeholders who spoke on his rising profile said his humility, accessibility and relationship with the grassroots have continued to endear him to many residents within the constituency.
They added that Repete’s engagement with youths and community groups reflects his commitment to inclusive governance and people-oriented representation.
Observers within the constituency also maintained that the increasing support for the politician reflects a growing desire among residents for a new generation of leaders driven by innovation, competence and accountability.
According to them, many young people see Repete as a symbol of hope and progressive leadership capable of contributing meaningfully to the development of Ibadan North Federal Constituency.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State stands on the edge of a consequential decision—one that may define not only its fortunes in Ibadan North Federal Constituency but also its broader political relevance in the state.
As the countdown to the party primaries intensifies, the question before APC leaders is no longer routine. It is strategic. It is urgent. And it is decisive: will the party align with the clear preference of the people or risk repeating costly political miscalculations?
At the centre of this debate is Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega, widely known as Repete—a name that has, over time, evolved from a political identity into a grassroots phenomenon.
A Candidate Rooted in the People
In contemporary Nigerian politics, where voter awareness is rising and expectations are shifting, candidates are increasingly judged not by promises but by presence. On this scale, Adegboyega stands tall.
His political journey is marked by consistent engagement with constituents—far beyond the optics of election seasons. From youth empowerment initiatives that provide practical skills and startup support, to sustained interventions in healthcare access for the elderly and indigent, his footprint across Ibadan North reflects a model of leadership anchored on service.
Unlike the transactional approach that often defines political relationships, Adegboyega’s connection with the people appears organic—built on trust, accessibility, and continuity. These are not mere campaign attributes; they are political assets.
The Danger of Political Disconnect
History offers the APC a clear lesson: parties that ignore grassroots sentiment often pay a heavy electoral price. The imposition of candidates perceived as distant or untested has, in several instances, resulted in voter apathy, internal dissent, and eventual defeat at the polls.
Ibadan North presents no exception.
With opposition parties closely monitoring the APC’s internal dynamics, any misstep in candidate selection could provide a ready opening. A divided house, coupled with a candidate lacking widespread acceptance, is a formula the opposition is well-positioned to exploit.
The implication is straightforward: this is not merely about party loyalty; it is about electoral viability.
Echoes from the Grassroots
Across the length and breadth of Ibadan North—markets, motor parks, religious centres, and community gatherings—a consistent pattern emerges in political conversations. The name “Repete” resonates with familiarity and acceptance.
Such organic support is not easily manufactured. It is cultivated over time through visible impact and sustained presence. For a party seeking electoral certainty in a competitive environment, this level of grassroots validation is not just desirable—it is critical.
A Test of Leadership and Judgment
For the APC leadership in Oyo State, the moment calls for clarity of purpose. Decisions driven by narrow interests, personal alignments, or short-term calculations may carry long-term consequences.
The task, therefore, is to balance internal considerations with external realities. Elections are ultimately decided by voters, not by party caucuses. A candidate who commands public confidence offers the strongest pathway to victory.
The Stakes Are Clear
Ibadan North is too strategic a constituency for experimentation. The cost of error is not limited to a single seat; it extends to party cohesion, credibility, and future positioning within the state’s political landscape.
In this context, the argument for Adegboyega is less about sentiment and more about strategy. His visibility, acceptability, and record of engagement place him in a strong position to consolidate support and mobilise voters effectively.
Conclusion: A Choice with Consequences
As the APC moves closer to its primaries, the decision before it is both simple and significant: align with a candidate who reflects the mood of the electorate or risk conceding advantage to a watchful opposition.
In politics, moments such as this often separate foresight from hindsight.
For APC in Ibadan North, this may well be one of those defining moments.
Aderibigbe Akanbi, a political analyst, writes from Ibadan.
As the road to 2027 gradually unfolds across Oyo State, political conversations are shifting from routine permutations to deeper questions about competence, generational leadership, and measurable impact. In Ibarapa East, that conversation has found a new voice in Yusuf Abiodun Ramon — a Lanlate-born technocrat whose entry into the race for the State House of Assembly is redefining what representation could mean for the constituency.
In a political environment often dominated by familiar faces and conventional calculations, Ramon presents a profile shaped by technical discipline, structured thinking, and solution-driven engagement. His professional background, anchored in analytical precision and systems management, forms the foundation of his public service aspiration.
For him, representation must move beyond ceremonial presence to practical responsiveness — laws that reflect local realities, oversight that protects public resources, and advocacy that translates into visible development.
Ramon argues that the future of Ibarapa East lies in leadership that listens deliberately, plans strategically, and delivers measurably. He speaks of strengthening rural infrastructure, expanding youth-driven economic opportunities, and institutionalising transparency as core pillars of his agenda. In his view, governance must not merely be symbolic; it must be structured, accountable, and people-centred.
Rooted in Ile Odede, Isale Alubata Compound, Ward Seven of Ibarapa East Local Government, and maternally linked to Ile Sobaloju, Isale Ajidun Compound, Eruwa, Ramon’s story is not one of distant ambition but of lived experience. He is, in every sense, a son of the soil — shaped by the same roads, schools, and economic realities that define daily life in Ibarapa East.
“I was born here. I grew up here. I understand our struggles, our strengths, and our untapped potential,” he says. “Representation must go beyond occupying a seat; it must translate into preparation, competence, and genuine commitment to development.”
His academic journey mirrors that philosophy of steady growth. He began at Islamic Primary School, Lanlate (1995–2001), proceeded to Baptist Grammar School, Orita Eruwa (2001–2007), and later earned a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, between 2009 and 2011. Refusing to plateau, he advanced his intellectual horizon and is now completing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Lagos. “Education,” he reflects, “is continuous capacity building. Leadership today requires both technical knowledge and administrative insight.”
That blend of engineering precision and managerial training has defined a professional career spanning more than a decade. Shortly after his diploma, Yusuf joined Mikano International Limited as a generator installer, gaining hands-on experience in industrial power systems — a sector central to Nigeria’s infrastructural backbone. He later transitioned into telecommunications at Safari Telecoms Nigeria Limited, where he received specialized training in Industrial, Scientific, and Medical radio bands, strengthening his expertise in network operations.
In 2013, he became a Field Support Engineer at Netrux Global Concepts Ltd., then a leading ISM service provider in Nigeria. Over four formative years, he immersed himself in telecom infrastructure deployment and maintenance, mastering field coordination, logistics management, and real-time technical problem-solving.
Since July 2017, he has served as a Field Support Engineer with Specific Tools and Techniques Ltd., a power solutions firm providing services to major operators including MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria. In that capacity, he operates at the frontline of ensuring energy reliability and network uptime — responsibilities that demand discipline, accountability, and systems thinking.
For political observers in Ibarapa East, this trajectory matters. It reflects more than résumé credentials; it speaks to a mindset anchored in efficiency, coordination, and measurable outcomes — qualities increasingly demanded in legislative representation.
Beyond the private sector, Ramon’s political exposure is neither sudden nor superficial. A loyal member of the progressive political family in Lagos, he once served as a personal assistant to a former lawmaker, gaining practical insight into legislative procedure and constituency engagement. Within his community, he has quietly extended financial support to small-scale entrepreneurs and students — modest but consistent interventions rooted in personal responsibility.
“My interest is my people,” he states firmly. “Ibarapa East deserves strategic, responsive, and capable leadership at the State Assembly. We must move from rhetoric to results.”
Across the constituency — from Lanlate to Eruwa — development priorities remain clear: youth employment, vocational empowerment, rural road rehabilitation, stable power supply, agricultural value-chain expansion, improved educational standards, and stronger lawmaking that directly reflects community needs.
Political analysts argue that Ramon’s technocratic background positions him uniquely at the intersection of policy formulation and practical implementation. At a time when national discourse increasingly favours competence over grandstanding, his profile resonates with a broader generational shift toward performance-driven governance. His engineering discipline reinforces problem-solving; his business training strengthens administrative understanding; his grassroots roots anchor his empathy.
For Ibarapa East, the 2027 election cycle may represent more than a routine democratic exercise. It may mark a recalibration of expectations — a demand for representation that understands both the soil beneath its feet and the systems that drive modern development. As political alignments gradually crystallize in Oyo State, Yusuf Abiodun Ramon’s declaration signals the arrival of a candidate seeking to translate private-sector structure into public-sector impact.
One thing is clear: the conversation about the future of Ibarapa East has begun — and it is now framed around competence, credibility, and capacity.
Oluwasegun Idowu sent in this piece from Eruwa, Ibarapa East LG, Oyo State
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