The oldest higher institution in Nigeria, Yaba College of Technology, has been lifted up with donations of 150 hectares of land and N3.6b.
The morale booster came from a former permanent secretary, Tunde Fanimokun.
Fanimokun, throwing light on the reason for his generous donations to the nation’s oldest post-secondary institution said the land was to help the old school establish a green campus.
YABATECH’s Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, described the project as a milestone.
The 150 hectares are located in the Apapa/Badagry axis of Lagos State.
Fanimokun, whose
donations are to mark his 80th birthday and the birthday of his daughter said in a statement said the great mega smart city – Snake Island Project (SIP) – located in Badagry, was one of the milestones and a dream project.
The project is close to the British International School (BIS) model at Badagry and a 400 mega watts power generation plant, Prestige Power Limited (PREPOL).
The green campus project, said to be the first of its kind in Nigeria, is expected to offer 22 courses and over 40 others on sustainable development.
The donor is also to build a ₦3.5 billion entrepreneurship centre to be named after the late Iyanda Folawiyo, a leading industrialist and businessman, who he described as his mentor.
Fanimokun, according to YABATECH rector, was to “… build a N3.5 billion entrepreneurship centre for the college in honour of his mentor, Folawiyo”, adding “The Green Campus is expected to run about 22 courses and over 40 other programmes on certification on sustainable development and other areas of developmental needs.”
“Today, we witness history again. We celebrate the groundbreaking of a new facility, generously endowed by a true visionary, Chief Tunde Fanimokun. His philosophy of philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and good governance (PEG) serves as an inspiration to all”, he further said.
Abdul pointed out that the Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre “will be a vibrant hub, symbolising YABATECH’s commitment to excellence, progress, and nurturing future generations of successful entrepreneurs, who will contribute to the nation’s development.
“Our administration has been dedicated to consolidating the past and shaping the future. This event exemplifies our unwavering commitment to providing the best resources, environment, and support for our students and staff.”
He explained that the success of these projects would not be possible without the tireless efforts and contributions of many, including the insitution’s esteemed partners, supporters, and the entire YABATECH community.
“To each one of you, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.
“I express my sincere appreciation to everyone who made this momentous occasion possible, especially Chief Tunde Fanimokun, founder and chairman of the DSE Foundation”, he said, adding “Let us join in anticipation of the impact and legacy this new development will create, and let us move forward with excitement and determination as we embark on this transformative journey together.”
Source: IrohinOodua
