The Ogun State Polytechnic of Health and Allied Sciences, Ilese-Ijebu, on Wednesday held a colourful ceremony to welcome members of its newly reconstituted Fourth Governing Council, signalling what stakeholders described as the beginning of another era of progress and institutional development.

The event, which began with an opening prayer led by J.K. Adeyemi, drew traditional rulers, members of staff, students, and other dignitaries from within and outside the institution.

In his welcome address, the Rector, Dr Rasak Yinka Akinbo, formally introduced members of the new council, expressing delight at the return of both new and familiar faces. He particularly recognised the Council Chairman, Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaiye, SAN, KSC, who also chaired the institution’s third governing council.

Dr Akinbo described Kalejaiye as a visionary and philanthropic leader whose previous tenure left a legacy of service and dedication to institutional growth.

“During his last tenure, the Chairman bought a tractor and a bus and donated sixty streetlights to the institution—all from his personal resources,” the Rector noted. “He made sure to contribute his quota to the development of our polytechnic without seeking any reward.”

The Rector also highlighted the institution’s ongoing progress and appealed to the new council for continued support in addressing key developmental challenges.

“We appreciate your efforts in securing support for the institution at both state and federal levels. However, we humbly request your continued guidance and support in addressing the following: accessing ecological funds, ensuring state government involvement in our road construction, and attaining full polytechnic status from the National Board for Technical Education,” he said.

Dr Akinbo added that the polytechnic was working towards establishing an automated water factory and building a guest house to boost its internally generated revenue (IGR). He also called for an official launch of the institution’s brand identity to attract philanthropists, captains of industry, and academic icons.

“As the first and only polytechnic of health and allied sciences in Nigeria, it is imperative to promote our unique identity and expand our reach,” he emphasised.

In his keynote address, the Council Chairman, Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaiye, SAN, expressed gratitude to God and to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for reappointing him and other members to serve another term.

“Today marks not only the beginning of another term of stewardship but also a renewed opportunity for us to serve, to build, and to advance the vision and mission of this polytechnic in unity and commitment,” Kalejaiye said. “We appreciate His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for his confidence in this Council. His gesture reflects trust in our capacity to steer the affairs of this institution towards greater academic excellence, administrative efficiency, and infrastructural development.”

The chairman further assured the polytechnic community of the council’s readiness to promote transparency, accountability, and productivity in all its dealings.

“As we begin this new term, we are conscious of the enormous responsibilities before us. The Governing Council will continue to pursue policies that promote discipline and productivity while fostering cordial relationships among management, staff, and students alike,” he affirmed.

He also pledged to work with management to improve staff welfare and professional development while encouraging students to remain focused, disciplined, and responsible.

“To our dear staff, we acknowledge your invaluable contributions to the progress of this institution. To our students—the pride and future of this polytechnic—we assure you that your academic growth and welfare will remain at the heart of our considerations,” he added.

Among those who spoke at the event was the Elese of Ilese, Oba Oluremi Obayomi, who commended the students for their maturity and discipline.

“Let me also acknowledge the students,” the monarch said. “It is because of you that we are here. I commend your sense of responsibility and the peaceful conduct you have maintained. In the nine years I have been on the throne, I have not received any complaint about the Student Union, and I urge you to continue in that light.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) commended the Council for setting up a staff audit panel during its last tenure. He, however, appealed for the immediate implementation of the panel’s report.

“That audit was designed to restructure and reposition the staff of the Ogun State Polytechnic of Health and Allied Sciences. We applauded that move and still believe in it. My only request today is that the report of that audit panel be fully implemented,” he stated.

Responding, Asiwaju Kalejaiye assured that the Council had noted the request and urged all eligible staff to apply for positions once the process opens.

“To the best of my knowledge, no one has yet applied for the available positions,” he said. “All who meet the prerequisites are encouraged to do so.”

The Student Union Government (SUG) President also took the stage to congratulate the Fourth Governing Council and express appreciation to the Chairman for his continued support since his election as student leader.

He praised the Council for its commitment to institutional development and pledged that the student body would continue to maintain peace and cooperation with management.

The event ended on a hopeful note, with members of the Polytechnic community expressing optimism that the newly constituted Fourth Governing Council would build on past achievements and drive the institution toward greater heights in academic excellence, infrastructure, and innovation