A robust collaboration has been forged between the Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State and the Egbe Omo-Ibile Okeho (Okeho Indigenous Association) in anticipation of the official kick-off of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO). This partnership aims to ensure a smooth and successful launch for the new institution.
The synergy between the local council, led by Hon. (Barr.) Akeem Mustapha, and the indigenous association, headed by Dr. Kasali Salau, has culminated in a joint inspection of the university’s temporary site at Awoyemi Commercial High School, Okeho.
Professor Jacob Babayemi, who chairs the FUNATO Project Committee, guided the delegation through the temporary site.
He confirmed that approximately nine blocks are nearing completion and are expected to be ready for inspection by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, before the end of this month.
This signifies a critical step toward the university’s accreditation and commencement of academic activities.
In an interaction with acrossnigerianews.com, Hon. Akeem Mustapha, the Kajola Council Chairman and former Oyo State House of Assembly member, reaffirmed his commitment to the institution’s development.
He pledged that his administration would ensure the provision of palliatives for all roads leading to the temporary site at Awoyemi Commercial High School, Okeho, to facilitate easy access for students, staff, and visitors.
Mustapha also highlighted the ongoing contributions from Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to the new university, indicating a sustained level of support as work progresses on the site. He noted that while the institution is officially named “Oke-Ogun Federal University of Agriculture and Technology Okeho,” and it is specifically sited at Okeho.
Expressing gratitude, Hon. Mustapha acknowledged the fruition of the university project, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his tenure as Executive Chairman of Kajola Local Government. He urged citizens to set aside political differences and focus on developmental initiatives that benefit all, irrespective of location, religion, or other distinctions.
Dr. Kasali Salau, Chairman of Egbe Omo-Ibile Okeho, emphasized the importance of broader regional cooperation. He urged the Kajola Council Chairman to engage with other chairmen within the Oke-Ogun Zone to foster a shared understanding and positive impact on the institution.
Dr. Salau also stated that chairmen and secretaries from the surrounding metropolis – including Ilua, Isemi-ile, Imia, Ayetoro-Oke, Ilaji-Oke, and Ilero – would unite to ensure synergy and a formidable collaborative effort.
He expressed confidence that other communities would also contribute their quotas, as the host community has been diligently preparing for an effective kick-off.
The inspection visit saw a wide attendance, including the Council Chairman, Supervisory Councillors, Councillors, Career Officers, members of Egbe Omo-Ibile Okeho, Okeho youths, and other well-wishers, underscoring the community’s collective enthusiasm for the new university.
