Oyo State Polytechnic, Ibadan Renamed In Honour Of Late Governor Omololu Olunloyo.
In a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished statesman, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced the renaming of The Polytechnic, Ibadan to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan. The decision was revealed on Thursday, 26 June 2025, during an interdenominational commendation service held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, as part of the burial programme for the late Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of the state.
Dr Omololu Olunloyo, who passed away on 6 April 2025, just days shy of his 90th birthday, was a towering figure in Oyo State’s history. Serving as governor of the old Oyo State from October to December 1983, he was the first Ibadan indigene to hold the office. His brief tenure, cut short by the military coup of December 1983, was marked by his dedication to public service and education. Notably, Olunloyo also served as the pioneer Principal of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, further cementing his legacy in the academic sphere.
Governor Makinde, speaking at the commendation service, described the renaming as a fitting honour for Olunloyo’s immense contributions to education and governance in Oyo State. “There is no better way to honour Baba Olunloyo’s contributions to the education sector at both state and national levels than to immortalise him,” Makinde stated. He highlighted Olunloyo’s role as an intellectual pillar of his administration and a “conspiratorial partner in progress,” underscoring the late governor’s enduring influence.
In addition to the renaming of the polytechnic, Governor Makinde announced plans to preserve and digitise Olunloyo’s private library, describing it as a “treasure trove of knowledge” capable of addressing societal challenges. The state government aims to transform the library into a tourist attraction, aligning with its broader vision to boost Oyo’s economy through tourism. Furthermore, the Omololu Olunloyo Leisure Park at the Alakia-Airport Area, named after the late governor in 2023, is set to be commissioned soon, adding another landmark in his memory.
The announcement has been met with widespread approval, with dignitaries, including leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other notable figures, gathering to pay their respects at the commendation service. Mrs Oluyemi Olunloyo-Buckner, speaking on behalf of the family, described her late father as an “exceptionally brilliant personality” who gave his children “identity, heritage, and love.” The Acting Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr Taiwo Lasisi, also praised Olunloyo’s profound commitment to public service and brilliance.
Despite a downpour during the ceremony, attendees remained steadfast, united in their admiration for Olunloyo’s legacy. The renaming of the polytechnic, alongside the planned preservation of his library and the commissioning of the leisure park, ensures that Dr Omololu Olunloyo’s contributions to Oyo State will continue to inspire future generations.
This gesture not only celebrates a remarkable leader but also reinforces Governor Makinde’s commitment to honouring those who have shaped the state’s history while advancing its educational and cultural landscape.