Daud Olatunji
The 16th convocation ceremony of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, marked a historic moment on Thursday, as Governor Dapo Abiodun announced over N45 million in cash rewards to celebrate academic excellence and extraordinary milestones.
Among the highlights was the recognition of 85-year-old Dr. Bolaji Titilola Onafowokan, who made history as Nigeria’s oldest PhD graduate and the sixth oldest globally.
Dr. Onafowokan, awarded a PhD in Educational Media and Technology, received a cash gift of N2.5 million.
Governor Abiodun praised his determination, stating, “You have proven that we are never too old to learn. Your achievement is an inspiration to all.”
In a display of TASUED’s commitment to academic excellence, the overall best graduating student, Abdullateef Ademola Adedeji, who achieved a record-breaking GPA of 4.91, was awarded N2.5 million.
Additionally, each first-class graduate received N500,000 as part of the state’s tradition of rewarding excellence.
The event also celebrated acts of integrity, with Sodiq Olawale Oyetunde receiving N250,000 for his honesty in returning a lost phone.
Governor Abiodun who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to education, highlighting investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and innovative initiatives like the Digital Platform for Education Revitalization (DiPER).
The governor said “ While the Vice Chancellor was ending his address, he glowingly acknowledged a student, Sodiq Olawale Oyetunde who demonstrated a rare act of honesty and integrity by returning a lost phone he discovered on campus.
“ In addition to the commendation letter given by the University management, I am pleased to announce that we will be awarding him a cash gift of N250k.
“Indeed honesty is a great virtue.In addition, I must particularly mention the best graduating student, Abdul Lateef Ademola Adedeji, who graduated with a GPA of 4.91. Congratulations on this achievement.
“ In our usual style we will be giving each of the first class graduands N500k each and the overall best graduating student gets an additional N2m.
“ It is noteworthy to mention that the best graduating student in the College of Specialised and Professional Education, Emmanuel Opeyemi Adewale, who is one of the first class graduands mentioned above was a work study student.
“ This is highly commendable. It is a testament to the fact that through determination and hardwork you can attain your dream.
“Finally, I am proud to announce that history is being made today because not only is TASUED graduating its first set of doctoral students but also the University is putting Ogun state into global reckoning as one of our graduands is now officially the oldest PhD graduand in Nigeria and sub Saharan African.
“Indeed, he is the 6th oldest in the world. Please join me to acknowledge and congratulate 85-year-old Dr. Bolaji Totilola Onafowakan who is being awarded a PhD in Educational Media & Technology .
“This is an unprecedented milestone for this Institution and a great achievement for Papa.
“In recognition of your genuine quest for knowledge we are hereby presenting you with a cash gift of N2.5m.
The governor commended TASUED for producing Nigeria’s first set of B.Sc. and B.A. single-honours degree graduates, as well as its pioneer doctoral graduates.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wole Banjo, reflected on his four-year tenure and the transformative strides made under his leadership.
He described TASUED as a “Flagship University of Education in Nigeria, 2nd in Africa, and 8th globally,” emphasizing its commitment to producing employable, globally competent educators.
The ceremony witnessed the graduation of 3,674 students, who received two certificates each: one in their chosen field.foen study and another in vocational education.
“Our goal is to equip our graduates with skills to create jobs, hire workers, and thrive as global educators,” he stated, highlighting the institution’s role in implementing Nigeria’s new entrepreneurship curriculum.
Prof. Banjo described his tenure as both challenging and rewarding, outlining key milestones achieved during his administration.
He praised the transparent and accountable governance model adopted under his leadership, which strengthened the university’s financial standing and diversified its funding sources.
“We have left a legacy of sound governance and a solid foundation for future leaders,” he said, adding that reforms have redefined the university’s operations to align with global best practices.
Prof. Banjo expressed profound appreciation to Governor Dapo Abiodun for his unwavering support, noting the governor’s consistent presence at TASUED convocations.
“Your presence and generous rewards for outstanding students have been a great source of motivation,” he remarked.
The event also served as a personal milestone for Prof. Banjo, as it marked his final convocation as Vice-Chancellor.
“It has been an honour to contribute to the growth of this fast-developing university,” he concluded.
The convocation SW also conferred honorary doctorate degrees on four distinguished Nigerians: Barrister Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi, Engineer Jubril Dotun Sanusi, Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo, and Prince Oluyemisi Adedoyin Shyllon, for their outstanding contributions to society.
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