Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the proposed elevation of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo to a university as a strategic measure to place Ondo State at the forefront of national development in agriculture, science and technology.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made the disclosure on Monday while receiving the report on the proposed polytechnic upgrade to the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), from the committee in his office in Akure.
The governor commended the thoroughness and depth of the submissions, which included a campus master plan, academic brief, five-year income and sustainability framework, take-off grant summary, and pictorial master plan.
“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning,” Aiyedatiwa said. “The calibre of experts involved and the research conducted leave no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”
He stressed the national relevance of the project, noting its alignment with federal priorities in agriculture, rural development, electrification, and water provision.
“Artificial intelligence and technology will drive higher agricultural yields and sustainable rural livelihoods. Science and technology must underpin everything we do, including food production and wealth creation,” he said.
The governor further urged careful planning for the transitional phase to safeguard current polytechnic students’ academic progress.
“We must manage the shift carefully while preparing for a university capable of competing nationally,” he added, urging swift implementation to set a benchmark in higher education.
Presenting the report, the chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, explained that the administration recognises the strategic importance of the upgrade in meeting the aspirations of a growing youth population seeking university degrees beyond polytechnic diplomas.
He described the proposed university as a distinctive institution aimed at equipping students with technical expertise and a strong academic grounding for a competitive global environment.
“The objective is aptly reflected in the proposed name, University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, underscoring our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement,” Prof. Ajibefun said.
The commissioner noted that the committee, comprising distinguished academics and serving and retired public servants, had reviewed existing Rufus Giwa Polytechnic documents and examined data from universities within Nigeria and abroad to ensure strategic alignment with priority sectors for national and global development.
“The proposed university will have faculties in Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Management Sciences.
“A consultant town planner was engaged to develop the master plan, including perimeter surveys, land-use maps, location plans, pictorial views, Google imagery overlays, and detailed plans covering educational, residential, recreational, public/semi-public, and commercial uses, consistent with National Universities Commission requirements.”
Prof. Ajibefun also outlined a five-year strategic development plan designed to ensure financial stability, uninterrupted academic activities, and operational sustainability, recommending credible revenue streams alongside government subventions and a tuition structure balancing affordability with operational realities.
He further disclosed that a draft enabling law had been prepared, requiring minor amendments for formal NUC recognition.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr Akindele Ige.