In a testament to the innovations Yaba College of Technology has witnessed under the leadership of Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of the institution, a philanthropist, Chief Tunde Fanimokun, who is the Chairman, DSE Foundation, described the Rector as a pride to reckon with and a technological game changer.
Fanimokun said this as the Chairman of a public lecture to mark the Rector’s 365-day as the CEO of the 77-year-old school.
It is the first tertiary institution in Nigeria.
In his opening remarks at the event in the multipurpose hall of the school, Fanimokun extolled Engr. Abdul for his simplicity and humility, characteristics that have endeared him to the entire college community.
He declared: “Yabatech should be proud of having him as the Rector and a ‘game-changer’ whose innovative ideas have positioned Yabatech at the forefront of tertiary education in Nigeria and beyond.”
He praised Abdul for his visionary leadership, noting that his earlier philanthropic donation to the College was inspired by the Rector’s exemplary virtues and pledged to continue to support the institution.
The keynote address was delivered by Pa George Majekodunmi Okufi, the first indigenous Rector of Yaba College of Technology, who lauded Abdul for his innovative leadership style, which he said has brought about tangible improvements in the college.
“The hard work, dedication, and consistency of the Rector are already bearing fruits,” Pa Okufi observed, urging the college community to rally behind his of elevating the college to global standards.
Representing the National Board for Technical Education, Elder Ayo Aroge, the South West Zonal Director, commended the Rector for raising the standards of the College, adding that his commitment to technical and vocational education and training aligning with the NBTE’s mission to promote skills development across Nigeria and love to support for skills in TVET institutions are invaluable at advancing the sector.
The guest lecturer, Dr. Awoh Stella Mofunanya, Rector of Redeemers College of Technology and Management, delivered an insightful lecture on: “Leadership and Service: The Need for Creativity, Innovation, and Excellence.”
Dr. Mofunanya emphasised that in today’s rapidly evolving world, effective leadership and dedicated service require a blend of creativity, innovation, and excellence.
She praised Dr. Abdul’s approach to incorporating these elements into his leadership style, ensuring that Yabatech remains adaptive and resilient in facing future challenges.
She said: “In today’s rapidly evolving world, effective leadership and dedicated service are crucial for the sustained growth and success of any organisation or community.
“The traditional models of leadership and service are no longer sufficient, hence the need for creativity, innovation, and excellence. “
She commended Dr. Abdul’s big idea of integrating creativity, innovation, and excellence into his administration, ensuring Yabatech’s ability to adapt to change, overcome challenges, and achieve sustainable success.
These elements, she noted, foster a dynamic and resilient environment where individuals are empowered to contribute their best, driving progress and positive impact for the future of the College.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Abdul expressed profound gratitude for the support he has received throughout his tenure.
He provided a comprehensive rundown of his achievements over the past year, which include significant infrastructural developments, academic advancements, and initiatives aimed at improving student and staff welfare.
He reassured the audience of his continued dedication to driving progress and excellence at Yabatech, stating: “More is still to come from my annals of leadership signalling a future filled with promise and innovation.”
Highlights of the event was the award ceremony, which honoured the fore-bearers of Yaba College of Technology as the college recognised her past rectors who have significantly and meritoriously contributed to the college’s legacy of excellence.
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Award recipients included Pa G. M. Okufi, late Dr. Philip Adegbile (posthumously), late Chief Felicia Abimbola Odugbesan (posthumously), late Dr. Felix Owoso (posthumously), Dr. Margret Kudirat Ladipo, and Engr. Obafemi Omokungbe.
Notably, the names of Mrs. Odugbesan and Dr. Owoso were immortalised on building structures within the College, ensuring their legacies endure.
“The awards and immortalisation are in honour of the good works these past leaders have done,” Dr. Abdul noted, underscoring the importance of recognising and preserving the contributions of those who have shaped Yabatech’s history.
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