By ‘Deola Adeyemi
Doggedness is not just persistence; it is the quiet fire that fuels progress when the odds say otherwise. It is the grit to try again after every setback and the vision to see opportunity where others see closure. It is purpose. A purpose that burns through red tape, political fatigue, and legislative deadlocks. Few exemplify this trait like Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, FCA (YAYI), a man whose name has now become synonymous with resilience and whose dogged pursuit has delivered one of the most transformative wins for Ogun West: the elevation of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, to a University of Technology.
The journey to upgrade the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, into a University of Technology began in earnest during the 8th National Assembly in 2016, when Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola first sponsored the bill. From the outset, the bill was met with a mix of optimism and challenges. While it successfully passed through the Senate, momentum stalled as it failed to secure the crucial concurrence of the House of Representatives before the assembly’s tenure ended.
Undaunted by the procedural hurdles and the political complexities inherent in legislative processes, Senator Adeola carried the vision forward into the 9th National Assembly. Demonstrating resilience and steadfast commitment, he reintroduced the bill, navigating it through intense debates, committee reviews, and legislative scrutiny. This time, the bill gained broader acceptance, passing both chambers of the National Assembly with commendable support. Yet, despite this legislative milestone, the bill did not receive the presidential assent needed to become law, leaving the transformation incomplete but far from abandoned.
In the 10th National Assembly, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s persistence and strategic advocacy finally culminated in a historic breakthrough. After years of steadfast commitment and tireless lobbying, the bill to upgrade the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, yet again, successfully passed through the legislative process with overwhelming support from both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
This achievement was solidified by the official assent of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the bill establishing the institution, publicly announced yesterday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, signaling the start of a new chapter for educational development in Ogun West.
Senator Adeola’s dedication to this cause exemplifies the impact of steadfast leadership. His ability to navigate the complexities of lawmaking across three consecutive assemblies highlights a commitment to service that transcends political cycles. It is simply doggedness at play. This doggedness has now produced a monumental victory for Ilaro, Yewaland, and the entire Ogun West Senatorial District. This victory also pays tribute to the visionary leadership of His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, whose enduring commitment to the progress and development of his domain has continually inspired unity and attracted meaningful advocacy.
The transformation of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, into a University of Technology is a game-changer. It promises to unlock the immense potential of the region’s youth, stimulate local economies, and position Ogun West as a hub of innovation and learning. Beyond bricks and mortar, this achievement embodies hope, pride, and the collective aspirations of a community long underserved. The new Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, will serve as a monument to perseverance and the indomitable spirit of a leader committed to his people.
