Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde inaugurated the governing boards of the state’s tertiary institutions on July 11, 2025, at the Government House in Ibadan, marking a step toward enhancing educational governance.
The boards, comprising 45 members across five institutions including The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Emmanuel Alayande University, were appointed to oversee academic and financial management for three-year terms. Makinde emphasized the need for innovation and accountability, urging the boards to align with his administration’s ₦547 billion 2025 budget, which allocates 20% to education.
The ceremony, attended by 200 stakeholders, included prominent academics and industry leaders, with Professor Ayodele Olorunfemi chairing The Polytechnic’s board. The move follows a 2024 review of institutional performance, addressing past funding gaps and staff welfare issues.
Critics question the boards’ independence, citing political appointees, but Makinde defended the selections as merit-based. The inauguration coincides with a 15% enrollment increase in state institutions, with plans for infrastructure upgrades, though funding constraints remain a challenge.