Ondo Govt Approves Conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to University

The Ondo State Executive Council has approved the conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, into Rufus Giwa University of Agriculture, Science and Technology as part of a raft of decisions aimed at strengthening higher education, improving power supply and accelerating infrastructure development across the state.

The approvals were granted during the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Tuesday.

The council also approved a $1.6 million Small Hydropower Project at the Owena Dam, the construction of a 7.5-megawatt gas-fired power plant, the ratification of 21 infrastructure projects, counterpart funding for the ongoing Owena Urban Water Project and the confirmation of two traditional rulers.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Idowu Ajanaku, said the council’s decisions covered key sectors, including education, infrastructure, energy, water resources, legal reforms and local government administration.

He said the conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic into Rufus Giwa University of Agriculture, Science and Technology was part of the state government’s drive to expand access to quality tertiary education and promote sustainable development.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Johnson Alabi, disclosed that the 350-kilowatt Small Hydropower Project at the Owena Dam would be funded through a $1.6 million grant from the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, while the state government would provide 30 per cent counterpart funding.

According to him, the renewable energy project is expected to enhance electricity generation and improve power supply within the state.

Alabi further revealed that the council approved the construction of a 7.5-megawatt gas-powered turbine at the Alagbaka Commissioners’ Quarters to provide dedicated electricity to government offices and public facilities.

He said the project, which is expected to be completed within five months, would reduce the state’s reliance on electricity distribution companies and diesel-powered generators.

The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Abiola Olawoye, said the council also ratified 21 infrastructure projects earlier awarded across various local government areas.

The projects include the construction of the Okela–NYSC Camp–Federal Technical College Road in Ikare-Akoko and the development of 27 four-bedroom terrace apartments for members of the Ondo State House of Assembly.

On traditional institutions, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, announced the ratification of Prince Adewale Fatusin Richard as the Onisupare of Supare-Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area.

He added that the council also approved the appointment of Prince Tayo Ajisegiri as the Olujigba of Ijigba in Akure South Local Government Area.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Ayodele Akande, said the council approved the state’s counterpart funding for the ongoing Urban Water Project linked to the multipurpose Owena Dam in Igbara-Oke.

According to him, the approval will ensure the uninterrupted execution of the project following the fulfilment of funding commitments by donor agencies.