…Insists gov’t alone cannot solve student housing crisis
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving education infrastructure, student welfare, and youth development across the state.
Speaking during a meeting with student leaders at the Governor’s Office in Akure on Tuesday, the Governor lauded the maturity and peaceful conduct of student unions, noting that the absence of unrest since he assumed office reflects their discipline and responsible engagement.
“Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest. You have engaged constructively without any violent agitation,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the current economic difficulties facing citizens, describing them as temporary effects of national reforms.
He assured students that the ongoing policies were already yielding positive results for the economy.
“It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are making the economy better. If these reforms had not been implemented, Nigeria would have been worse off today,” he noted.
The Governor called for increased private sector participation in the education sector, particularly in hostel development, stressing that government resources are limited.
“Government cannot provide everything. That’s why we are calling on investors to build hostels within and around campuses. It’s a viable investment that will also improve student security,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He cited ongoing projects, including the reconstruction of the Akungba–Ikare road, initiated to prevent recurring road crashes near Adekunle Ajasin University and boost local commerce.
The Governor further pledged to prioritise technical and vocational education, describing it as key to industrial growth and job creation.
“We are paying more attention to technical education because investors are coming and they will need skilled workers,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa announced the approval of five new buses for student associations and promised to address the electricity challenges at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to expand scholarships, bursaries, and grants for students across all tertiary institutions in the state.
Earlier, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, commended the governor for doubling bursaries and scholarships for the first time in the state’s history and initiating youth-focused programmes.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), praised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style and support for student unions.
Representatives from various student bodies, including NANS, NAOSS, and NAUS, urged the government to address transportation, security, and accommodation challenges within campuses.
Dignitaries present included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, and other top officials.