President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Nosiru Olajide Onibon as the pioneer rector of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s establishment.
Eko Hot News reports that Otunba TJ Abass, Publisher of EKO HOT NEWS, 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 has drawn widespread commendation from political leaders, religious figures, and family members who described it as a well-deserved recognition of Onibon’s academic experience and leadership in Nigeria’s education sector.
The certificate of appointment was presented by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during an inauguration ceremony held in Abuja.
The appointment came just eight days after Professor Onibon was publicly celebrated at the launch of his memoir titled Audacity to Lead and Courage to Serve.
The book presentation highlighted his years of institutional leadership and reform within Nigeria’s education system.
At the ceremony, government officials and education stakeholders described the appointment as a strategic move that places an experienced academic leader at the helm of a new federal institution.
Among those who congratulated the newly appointed rector was the lawmaker representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Wale Raji.
Raji described the appointment as a case of putting “a round peg in a round hole,” noting that Professor Onibon possesses the experience and competence required to lead the institution successfully.
He said the decision reflects recognition of Onibon’s exemplary leadership and contributions to the education sector.
According to the lawmaker, the appointment aligns exceptional talent with the responsibility of building one of Nigeria’s emerging tertiary institutions.
Raji also pointed to Onibon’s track record in higher education administration as evidence that the appointment was well deserved.
The professor 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 transformed into the Lagos State University of Education.
The lawmaker expressed confidence that the polytechnic would witness a new era of academic excellence under Onibon’s leadership.
Religious leaders also joined in congratulating the new rector on the appointment.
Imam Tijani Shehu Olawale of the Al Falaah Islamic Society of Nigeria offered prayers for continued success in his academic career.
He described the appointment as a moment of pride for the academic community and prayed for wisdom for the new rector.
Family members also celebrated the development as a testament to Professor Onibon’s dedication and integrity.
A relative, Kehinde Adejoke Onibon, described the appointment as a proud moment for the entire Onibon family.
She said the achievement reflects the values of excellence, discipline, and commitment that the family represents.
According to her, the appointment demonstrates that hard work and dedication to service continue to be recognized.
Observers noted that the timing of the appointment adds significance to the development.
Just over a week earlier, Professor Onibon had reflected on his professional journey during the launch of his memoir.
The book documents his five years and nine months as Provost of the Michael Otedola College of Primary Education.
During that period, he said he inherited an institution facing major administrative and financial challenges.
According to him, several years of financial records had not been processed and pension deductions had not been properly remitted.
He explained that staff morale was also low when he assumed office.
Onibon said his administration addressed the challenges through transparency, prudent financial management, and strong stakeholder engagement.
These reforms helped restore stability and rebuild confidence within the institution.
He also noted that his leadership focused on restoring accreditation standards and strengthening institutional governance.
Education stakeholders believe these experiences will be valuable in building the foundation of the new federal polytechnic.
Many observers expect that his leadership will guide the institution toward academic growth and national relevance.
For supporters and well-wishers, the appointment represents recognition of a career dedicated to educational reform and public service.
The new rector is expected to lead the institution in shaping technical and vocational education for future generations of Nigerian students.
