Memoir Launch to Rector : Otunba TJ Abass praises Prof. Onibon’s Appointment as BAT Polytechnic Rector

Nigeria has recorded a new milestone in its tertiary education sector as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the appointment of Nosiru Olajide Onibon as the pioneer rector of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic.

Epe Insights reports that Otunba TJ Abass, Publisher of Epe Insights, has congratulated Professor Nosiru Olajide Onibon on his appointment as the Pioneer Rector of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic, Abuja, describing the development as a proud milestone for the Epe community and a recognition of his decades of dedicated service to education in Nigeria.

The appointment marks a major step in the establishment of the new federal institution designed to strengthen technical and vocational education in Nigeria.

The official certificate of appointment was presented by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during an inauguration ceremony held in Abuja.

Education stakeholders described the appointment as a strategic decision aimed at positioning the new institution for strong academic leadership.

Professor Onibon’s selection has attracted commendations from political leaders, religious figures, colleagues and family members who praised his long-standing contributions to the Nigerian education sector.

Observers noted that the appointment came shortly after the public presentation of his memoir titled Audacity to Lead and Courage to Serve.

The book chronicles his years of leadership experience and reform efforts within Nigeria’s higher education system.

At the inauguration ceremony, officials highlighted the importance of placing experienced academic administrators at the helm of new tertiary institutions.

Among those who congratulated the new rector was the lawmaker representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Wale Raji.

Raji described the appointment as a well-considered decision that places the right leader in the right role.

He said Professor Onibon possesses the experience and competence required to guide the polytechnic toward academic excellence.

According to the lawmaker, the appointment reflects recognition of the professor’s contributions to higher education administration.

He also noted that the decision aligns exceptional leadership talent with the responsibility of building a new federal institution.

Professor Onibon previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the Lagos State University of Education.

He also served as Provost of the Michael Otedola College of Primary Education before the institution was upgraded into the Lagos State University of Education.

Education stakeholders believe his administrative experience will provide valuable guidance in shaping the structure of the new polytechnic.

Religious leaders also offered goodwill messages following the announcement of the appointment.

Among them was Tijani Shehu Olawale, who prayed for wisdom and continued success for the new rector.

Family members described the development as a proud moment for the Onibon family and a recognition of years of dedication to service.

A relative, Kehinde Adejoke Onibon, said the appointment reflects values of excellence, discipline and commitment.

Observers also pointed to Professor Onibon’s leadership journey while serving as provost of the Michael Otedola College of Primary Education.

During that period, he said the institution faced administrative and financial challenges when he assumed office.

According to him, his administration introduced reforms based on transparency, prudent financial management and strong engagement with stakeholders.

These measures helped stabilise the institution and restore confidence among staff and the academic community.

He also worked toward improving governance structures and restoring accreditation standards within the college.

Education experts believe these experiences will help shape the early development of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic.

They noted that the institution is expected to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s technical and vocational education landscape.

Supporters say Professor Onibon’s appointment represents recognition of a career dedicated to academic leadership and institutional reform.

The new rector is expected to guide the polytechnic as it develops programmes aimed at preparing students for innovation, industry and national development.