The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has named its proposed Academic Resource Centre after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as construction of the facility begins, with the institution describing the move as recognition of his contributions to the state’s development.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Friday, November 6, 2026, and performed by the Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Prof. Lanre Moshood Nassar, alongside the Rector, Dr Abideen Taiwo Lasisi.
Named the Engr. Seyi Makinde Academic Resource Centre, the facility is expected to provide a central base for student development, alumni relations, career advancement, institutional partnerships and collaborations with local and international organisations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nassar described the project as an important step in the institution’s development, adding that naming the centre after Makinde was also a way of acknowledging his administration’s efforts to reposition Oyo State.
He said the governor’s development drive placed a responsibility on public institutions, particularly tertiary institutions, to demonstrate similar commitment to growth and resourcefulness.
The council chairman also praised Makinde for ensuring regular payment of workers’ salaries, contrasting the current arrangement with previous periods when civil servants experienced half-salary payments and other delays.
“All workers in Oyo State are happy because we know the experience with respect to the payment of salaries. In the past, workers experienced half salaries and other challenges, which affected many families. But this governor has changed the narrative.
“By the 25th of every month, workers receive their salaries. I think that is commendable,” he said.
Nassar also reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the welfare of the institution’s employees and pensioners, saying their well-being remained a priority for the governing body and management.
Explaining the centre’s proposed functions, he said it would house key units responsible for student development, institutional advancement, alumni relations and external partnerships.
He added that the facility would give students access to opportunities and resources to improve their skills, establish professional connections and pursue their academic and career goals.
“The Academic Resource Centre is very important in any tertiary institution, whether a polytechnic or university. It is a resource centre that will cater for so many things. Advancement units will be there, students will have opportunities, while linkages and alumni relations units will also be accommodated.
“It is an umbrella that will ensure the nurturing, total development and career advancement of our students,” he said.
The council chairman acknowledged funding as a major consideration in delivering the project but expressed confidence that the necessary resources would be mobilised to complete it.
He said the institution was targeting completion ahead of its convocation ceremony scheduled for next month, when Makinde was expected to commission the facility.
In his remarks, the Rector, Lasisi, praised Nassar for his leadership and commitment to humanity, describing him as a mentor and father figure whose concern for people’s welfare had earned the admiration of the institution’s management.
Lasisi said his working relationship with the council chairman had further strengthened his respect for him, describing Nassar as a professor of exceptional intellectual depth and a leader who prioritises the well-being of others.
On the decision to name the centre after Makinde, the rector said it was a joint initiative of the Governing Council and management to recognise the governor’s contributions to Oyo State.
He listed education, healthcare and infrastructure among the sectors where he said the governor had made significant contributions, adding that the Polytechnic community considered his interventions worthy of institutional recognition.
According to Lasisi, the council, management, staff and students agreed that naming the facility after the governor would serve as a lasting recognition of his administration’s contributions.
He expressed confidence that construction would be completed within a short period and urged the contractors and officials handling the project to work towards meeting the institution’s target for commissioning during the forthcoming convocation.
The centre is expected to strengthen the Polytechnic’s academic and administrative support systems while expanding opportunities for student development, career advancement, alumni engagement and institutional collaboration.
Kehinde Ayanboade
Kehinde Ayanboade is the Managing Editor and Publisher of Naija Metro News, with over eight years of experience covering Nigerian politics, crime, legislative proceedings and metropolitan affairs.
