The Management of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, has expressed its gratitude to the State Governor, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde (FNSE) for signing into law the bill to rename the institution after the renowned father, politician, nationalist and statesman, Chief Michael Adeniyi Akano Koleoso, The Babalaje of Saki land and The Former SSG of Oyo State.
The congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Surv. S.A. Ajibola, the Rector of TOPS, and made available to journalists by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Samson Adebayo on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the decision to rename the Polytechnic as MAK Polytechnic Saki Oyo State, is a significant tribute to a distinguished public figure and doyen of Oke-Ogun which will linger in the annals of The Oke Ogun Area, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
The statement read in part: “It is a well deserved honour bestowed to an icon with legacy of selfless service, dedication to education and his contribution to nation building which perfectly aligned with the values and goals of the Polytechnic.
“By honouring Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso in this manner, the Governor has not only paid homage to a great leader but has also bolstered the reputation and heritage of the institution. The Polytechnic Community is profoundly grateful for this kind gesture which is the harbinger of inspiration to the current and future generations of students and staff to uphold the virtue of excellence, integrity and commitment to public service.
“The thought and foresight of his Excellency, Engr.(Dr) Oluseyi Makinde (FNSE) to rename the institution after the Babalaje of Saki Land is very timely and in line with the inspiration to preserve his good legacies.
“Therefore, making this happen during Babalaje’s life time beacons at the jinx breaker Governor to break the Yoruba axiom that, “Eniyan ko sun won laaye, Ojo ti aba ku la di ere” (Human being is not appreciative while alive until after his death). This is another land mark to his Excellency, which defiles the common saying that second time in office does not yield results.
“The Polytechnic under the Leadership of Dr. Surv. Sikiru Adetona AJIBOLA on behalf of the Management, Staff and Students commend his Excellency by renaming the institution after the icon who fought tooth and nail to ensure the establishment of the institution in 1981 and his vision to uplift the Oke Ogun Area even when it was not given attention in all sectors.
“This giant stride would boost our morale and ginger us to provide quality education, fostering research and innovation, serving as a catalyst for positive change in the State.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Governor and all stakeholders who supported this initiative. Together, we will continue to strive for academic excellence, community development and the advancement of Oyo State.”
