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Osun State Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola has stated that the state is committed to the joint ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, adding that his administration would not relent in its efforts to promote and strengthen the bond of joint ownership of the institution by the two states.
Oyetola stated this while receiving the management of the institution led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Ologunde, who are on a courtesy visit.
He promised his continuous support for the institution so as to maintain its standard, stating that his government remained resolute to meet up with its responsibility as stipulated by the law on the joint ownership of the institution to make it a great tower of knowledge.
Oyetola described the university as a “fortune” to the citizens of both states, he took a swipe at what he described as the “lopsided pace of infrastructure development” of the institution with a large concentration of facilities at the headquarters in Ogbomoso.
“We have always been committed to LAUTECH. We have always regarded the institution as a joint asset of Oyo and Osun states and we are committed to the ownership structure.
“As we are committed to ensure equitable distribution of resources, so also that our administration will continue to support the university to maintain its standard and make it the best citadel of knowledge not only in Nigeria but in Africa.
“Though the bulk of the infrastructure of the university is located at the headquarters (Ogbomoso) as seven and half faculties of the university are located in Ogbomoso while only one faculty is located in Osogbo.”
“We are looking up for more infrastructure development that will speak volume of the reality of joint ownership.”
“We remain equal partners as affirmed by the Supreme Court judgment which affirms the joint ownership of the institution,” Oyetola said.
While speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of LAUTECH, Professor Ologunde commended Oyetola’s administration for prioritising education. He thanked the state government for being supportive in bringing the desired development to the institution.