Ogun Governor Gifts ₦2m To OOU’s Best Graduating Student

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to education as a cornerstone of sustainable development, pledging continued investment in the sector to secure the state’s future.

Abiodun made this known on Saturday during the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, which coincided with Ogun State’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Governor described education as a “strategic pillar” in the state’s developmental plan, commending OOU’s contributions to knowledge, innovation, and human capital development.

“The 35th Convocation celebrates academic excellence, access, and institutional relevance,” Abiodun said. “By placing reliable data at the centre of decision-making, our administration has enhanced transparency, improved outcomes, and ensured that every intervention across the education value chain is strategic and measurable.”

He revealed that the state had allocated ₦275.4 billion, representing 17 percent of its ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget to the education sector, reflecting what he described as the government’s determination to “expand access to quality education, reduce inequality, and ensure no child is left behind, regardless of background or location.”

In recognition of outstanding academic performance, the Governor announced cash prizes for the university’s top-performing graduates, including ₦500,000 for each of the 13 best graduating students from various faculties and ₦2 million for the overall best graduating student, Master Ajayi David of the Faculty of Engineering.

Abiodun also congratulated the graduating class, urging them to remain curious, innovative, and dedicated to lifelong learning. “Continue to learn, ask questions, and serve as worthy ambassadors of this great university,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, in his remarks, highlighted OOU’s rising profile, stating that the institution ranks 16th among 321 universities in Nigeria and second only to LAUTECH among state-owned institutions.

He commended the Governor for prioritizing education as a catalyst for “holistic and transformative development,” affirming that OOU remains committed to advancing a knowledge-driven economy anchored on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable growth in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Also present at the event were the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Toyin Ashiru; members of the Governing Council; Senate; and other dignitaries who joined in celebrating the institution’s legacy of excellence over the past 35 years.