Gov. Mákindé and Prof. Kàlílù: LAUTECH’s Marriage of Convenience and Continuity? | Sayo Alagbe
PanNigerianNews
4 min read
By Sayò Àlàgbé
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State didn’t make a wrong choice in the acting Vice Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Prof. Radaq Olatunde ROM Kàlílù and to say that Kàlílù himself hasn’t disappointed him speaks volumes of reality-check on ground, and the basis for the continuous progress aided by visionary steps and action.
Remarkable is the fact it is universally believed that men of like minds think, do and execute noble goals together, flawlessly. It is apt to say that both the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde and Professor ROM Kalilu are great gifts and blessings to this generation, most importantly, to Oyo State in general, and precisely, Ogbomoso in particular. The governor leads Oyo State by uncommon example of a visionary leader, while Professor ROM Kalilu champions a new Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso with uncommon vision that resides in untamed passion.
Significantly, the emergence of the duo brings to bear unprecedented developments and unthinkable series of progress to the whole state, especially to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso – recently returned to its recognized position as the best state university in Nigeria and best University of Technology in Nigeria. Frankly, the appetite of Professor Kalilu has been whet. That’s to take LAUTECH to the next level of success stories, much more than being the best state in Nigeria. The next level is to be globally recognized by being able to globally compete with other reputable institutions. To ensure the attainment of the lofty heights, the best person to trigger the expected plan of actions and implementations is no other than Professor ROM Kalilu.
Lest we forget, it was Governor Seyi Makinde who fueled the fire of greater development in LAUTECH, by providing the needful for its upliftment and tremendous rise to the top as an institution to be reckoned with nationally and across the globe. Equally, it should be reiterated that Professor ROM Kalilu, whose appointment was made possible by Governor Makinde as the acting Vice Chancellor, picked up the gauntlet and hit the ground running, working tirelessly to exceed the expectation of his university Visitor.
To be explicit, within the context of history of leadership of the institution, there emerges a figure whose foresight and determination transcend the ordinary, elevating the trajectory of their domain to unparalleled heights. Governor Makinde embodies such visionary leadership, epitomizing the essence of progress and excellence. His visionary decision to appoint Prof. Kalilu as the acting VC of LAUTECH stands as evidence of his unwavering commitment to educational advancement and global competitiveness. There is no controversy over that!
Moreover, Prof. ROM Kalilu, a beacon of scholarly brilliance and pragmatic innovation, assumed the mantle of leadership of the institution with unparalleled enthusiasm and dedication. His visionary approach to academia, coupled with his proven track record of transformative leadership, heralds a new era of excellence for the esteemed institution. Under his stewardship, LAUTECH is poised to emerge as a bastion of intellectual prowess and a crucible of innovation.
Furthermore, one of the most commendable features of Prof. ROM Kalilu’s tenure is his steadfastness, dedication and commitment to fostering collaboration with foreign universities. By facilitating the exchange of workforce and ideas, he seeks to enrich the system. This bold initiative not only enhances the global standing of the institution but also fosters a culture of internationalism and cross-cultural understanding among students and faculty members alike.
Convincingly, Governor Makinde’s foresight in selecting Professor ROM Kalilu for this pivotal role is a testament to his astute judgment and dedication to the advancement of the state’s educational system. By entrusting the reins of leadership to the visionary Prof. Kalilu’s caliber, he has not only demonstrated a profound commitment to nurturing talent, but fostering excellence within the state’s academic institutions. This is not common if one chooses to peep into history of the past governors’ commitment and dedication to LAUTECH.
Remarkably, Governor Makinde’s readiness to propel LAUTECH to the international ivory tower and position it as a formidable competitor among its global counterparts, is both commendable and inspirational for would-be leaders. His visionary approach to higher education recognizes the transformative power of knowledge and innovation in shaping the future trajectory of the state and the nation at large.
In conclusion, Governor Seyi Makinde’s appointment of Prof. ROM Kalilu as the acting VC represents a water-shed moment in the annals of educational leadership in Oyo State. The collaborative efforts are poised to elevate the institution to unprecedented heights of excellence, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and global engagements; that will resonate far beyond the confines of academia.
Beyond conviction, before the curtain is draw on this marriage of convenience and continuity, it is without any iota of doubt that LAUTECH’s visionary journey on this transformative journey; under the stewardship of Prof. Kalilu holds more than promises – the journey holds more visions than visible now. The future is outrightly bright, brimming with the prospects of laudable feats attainable only through the elevation of Professor ROM Kalilu to the covetous position of substantive Vice Chancellor of the great citadel of learning – LAUTECH. There is no substitute for continuity. That’s the way to go!
…Àlàgbé, CEO Timfred Communications Nig Ltd, is a media practitioner, culture promoter, radio consultant, author and publisher. [email protected]. 07039535757.
