The Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr. Samson Adeola Odedina, has called on students leaders across the country to work towards restoring Nigeria’s lost glory.
This he said could be done by taking advantage of the opportunities that abound in the country to work towards stable economy, adequate security, entrepreneurship development among others.
Dr. Odedina made the call at the Joint Campus Committee 2019 inauguration ceremony at the Federal College of Education in Abeokuta when he spoke on the topic: “The Roles of Nigerian Students in Restoring the Lost Glory of Nigeria.”
He was also, at the occasion, given the award of the “The Most Students Friendly Head of Institution,” by the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS.
He challenged the students to rise up to uphold national tasks with positive mindset, saying the future of the nation was in their hands.
“Some years back, we were where you are today as students and in few years time, you will be where we are today as leaders,” he said.
The chief host, National Public Relations Officer of NANS, Comrade Azeez Amoo Adeyemi, speaking at the occasion described the inaugural ceremony as the first in the history of NANS, Ogun State chapter.
He sadi the occasion was also designed to honour some revered personalities.
He stated that the decision to honour MAPOLY Rector with the leadership award as “The Most Students Friendly Head of Institution” was reached at the Senate for his role at creating enabling environment for Nigerian students.
He explained that the impact of Dr. Odedina was felt for conducting first ever peaceful students union election in MAPOLY as well as his support for Ogun NANS election.
“I want to thank MAPOLY Rector for his friendliness and numerous support within the little period of his administration, especially for conducting first ever peaceful “e-voting” election for MAPOLY students,” he said.
He also disclosed that one of the reasons why Odedina was conferred with the award was the tremendous support he had been giving to students across the country.
He said the body recognised his antecedents on professional capabilities and sterling contributions to students and youth developmental projects towards nation building.
He added that the passion and charismatic leadership he usually displayed in the bid to empowering youths and students were some of the reasons “we deemed it fit to honour him, and having exceedingly helped students to attain a great height made the feats extra-ordinary.”
In his remarks, Dr. Odedina thanked the students’ association for honouring him with the award.
He said they should continue to ensure dignity and peaceful co-existence amongst students.
At the event, NANS spokesman, Adeyemi Azeez, coordinated the induction of new executive members of Ogun NANS, who will direct the affairs of Ogun State tertiary institutions students.
Meanwhile, the Provost, Dr. Ayodele Ajayi of the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, who doubled as host was also honoured with an award of excellence.
