FG Assumes Control of Tai Solarin University

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Governor of Ogun State Hands Over Tai Solarin University to Federal Government

During the 17th convocation ceremony of the Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, officially transferred the institution to the Federal Government. This significant event marked a major milestone in the university's history and was witnessed by several key stakeholders, including the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, who was represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof Suwaiba Ahmad.

Abiodun emphasized that Ogun State had formally released the former Tai Solarin University of Education to the Federal Government, transferring all associated authorities and responsibilities. The handover was part of broader efforts to strengthen teacher education across Nigeria, as announced by the Federal Government earlier in March 2025.

At the same convocation, the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, received an honorary doctorate in Child Education. She also announced a N50 million endowment fund and support package for the overall best graduating female student of the university over the next decade. Tinubu, who was represented by the wife of the Vice President, Mrs Nana Shettima, dedicated this award to the advancement of girl-child education.

In addition to Tinubu, Abiodun and former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, were conferred with honorary doctorate degrees in Education Management and Political Science, respectively. Osoba’s honor was celebrated by real estate developer and CEO of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited, Dr Babatunde Adeyemo, who praised the former governor for his impactful leadership and contributions to governance, politics, and journalism.

Adeyemo highlighted Osoba’s legacy of purposeful governance, rural and urban development, and policies rooted in compassion and accountability. He noted that despite leaving office over 23 years ago, Osoba’s influence in Ogun State remains visible and celebrated.

Abiodun expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s decision to take over the university, stating that it reinforced the government’s commitment to preserving legacy institutions and enhancing teacher education as a strategic pillar of national development. He commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the takeover, noting that it enhanced equity in the geographical spread of federal universities and strengthened the government’s focus on empowering Nigerians through quality education.

He further mentioned that the adoption of the university by the Federal Government also advanced national equity by balancing the distribution of federal universities. Additionally, it honored distinguished champions of education in the Ijebu-Remo region, including the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the late Chief Bisi Onabanjo. Abiodun acknowledged the role of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, whose intervention was crucial during a critical moment in the institution’s history.

Tracing the university’s history, Abiodun noted that it began as a College of Education in 1978 before becoming a university in January 2025. Initially enrolling 3,800 students, the institution has since grown to offer 63 undergraduate programs, 46 Master’s programs, and 42 PhD programs, with over 35,000 undergraduate students.

Abiodun emphasized that the university’s journey exemplifies how clear direction and collective resolve can lead to institutional growth and inspiration for future generations. He urged graduates to apply their skills to address socio-economic challenges in the country.

Gbolahan Awofala, a Computer Science graduate with a CGPA of 4.92, emerged as the overall best student and received a N2 million cash prize from the state government, along with an additional N1.5 million from the wife of the President.

Speaking after receiving her honorary doctorate, Mrs Tinubu reiterated her commitment to promoting access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities. She expressed humility over the recognition and reaffirmed her dedication to girl-child education, announcing the N50 million endowment fund for the best female graduates.

Earlier, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Adekunle Adeogun, shared that the 17th convocation produced 4,717 graduands, including 40 First Class graduates, 1,466 Second Class Upper, 2,768 Second Class Lower, 492 Third Class, and 19 Pass degrees. Additionally, 384 students graduated from the university’s Postgraduate School.

Adeogun encouraged graduates to go into the world and shine, teaching with passion and carrying the name of the institution with honor wherever they go. He thanked the Federal Government for taking over the university, citing improvements in infrastructure and other areas.