By Fémí Emmanuel
The much-anticipated Ogbomoso Education Summit was held on Tuesday in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, bringing together prominent traditional rulers, political leaders, academics, educationists, and community stakeholders to deliberate on the challenges confronting education and explore sustainable pathways for progress.
The event, which commenced at 10:38 a.m., was jointly anchored by Benjamin Eze Oji of Parrot FM and Adedamola Atewogbaireaje of Brave FM, both private-owned radio stations in Ogbomoso. Distinguished dignitaries were formally introduced, including representatives of Governor Seyi Makinde and Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, ably represented by Engr. Open Salawu, Baba Laje of Ogbomoso land.
Also in attendance were His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), the Soun of Ogbomosoland, the Vice Chancellor of LAUTECH, Prof. R.O.M. Kalilu, members of the Soun-in-Council, Maj.-Gen. Oladapo Popoola (rtd.), religious leaders Reverend Owoade Samuel and Sheikh Abib Ayilara, as well as several academics, educationists, and lawmakers.
Other key figures present included: Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala (House of Representatives, Ogbomoso North, South & Orire Federal Constituency), Hon. Muktar Shagaya (Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency), Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle, Prof. Segun Ajiboye, Chairman of the Planning Committee, representatives of Adeleke University, as well as retired principals, headmasters, and media professionals.
The opening prayers were jointly offered by Reverend Owoade and Sheikh Abib Ayilara, after which Oba Ghandi Olaoye officially declared the summit open. In his address, the monarch emphasized that education is the bedrock of societal development, noting that the forefathers of Ogbomoso placed great value on learning, which contributed to the advancement of their children and the community at large.
The keynote lecture, titled “Community Partnership in Education in Ogbomoso Land,” was delivered by Oba John Akintola, the Alapa of Alapa. He stressed the crucial role of community involvement in education, urging parents to instill proper values in their children and make personal sacrifices to ensure quality upbringing.
Speakers and panelists—including Mr. Olokede, Mrs. Ojewumi, Mrs. Oke, Prof. Adejumo, and Mr. Dokun Oyetunji—highlighted pressing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, poor funding, and lack of parental involvement, while also proposing solutions to make Ogbomoso a hub of academic excellence.
A major highlight of the summit was the wave of donations announced in support of educational development. Oba Ghandi Olaoye donated ₦1 million and pledged scholarships for the best-performing JAMB candidates across Ogbomoso’s five local government areas. Maj.-Gen. Oladapo Popoola (rtd.) contributed ₦5 million, Hon. Olamijuwonlo Akala pledged ₦2 million, Engr. Open Salawu committed ₦100 million, Dr. Deji Adeleke, founder of Adeleke University, Ede, #100 Million while Hon. Muktar Shagaya donated ₦1 million. Federal Polytechnic Ayede also supported with ₦5 million, alongside other contributions from NGOs, including the donation of exercise books.
In his closing remarks, Oba Ghandi Olaoye reiterated the need for collective responsibility in advancing education, urging stakeholders to remain committed. The summit ended with prayers by Sheikh Abib Ayilara.
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