Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, has urged higher education institutions to leverage the potential of their alumni for infrastructural development. Hamzat made this call during a visit to the University of Ibadan, where he met with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale and the university’s management in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Highlighting the significance of technology and infrastructural development for national advancement, Hamzat commended the vice-chancellor for the ongoing improvements to the university’s infrastructure. However, he also challenged the institution’s alumni to actively contribute to its growth and transformation.
Hamzat emphasized the need to tap into alumni resources, recognizing that waiting solely on government support for development is not sufficient. He encouraged financially capable individuals within society to give back to the institutions that played a role in their education.
Expressing his commitment to enhancing the university’s excellence, Hamzat assured his readiness to collaborate with fellow alumni in elevating the institution’s standards.
Vice-Chancellor Adebowale praised Hamzat’s proactive role as an alumnus and revealed the university’s plan to honor him as an ambassador during the upcoming UI @ 75 Anniversary in November, recognizing his significant contributions.
Prof. Peter Olapegba, Chairman of the Planning Committee for UI @ 75, highlighted some of Hamzat’s past achievements, including the provision of solar systems to the university in 2014. He confirmed the university’s intent to bestow upon Hamzat the title of UI @ 75 ambassador in acknowledgment of his impactful legacy.
The institution previously decorated Governor Babagana Umaru Zulum of Borno State as an ambassador, underscoring its tradition of recognizing outstanding contributions by alumni.
