ABINUGBOLA PARTNERS AAPOLY ON INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT

 

…to build Entrepreneurial Centre as part of efforts to give back to alma mater

 

In a remarkable gesture of goodwill and commitment to educational advancement, Alhaji (Chief) Lawal Ayokunle Ibrahim, popularly known as Abinugbola, has pledged to partner with Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic (AAPOLY), Ijebu-Igbo, on infrastructural development, beginning with the construction of a modern Entrepreneurial Centre for the institution.

The project, according to Alhaji Lawal, who is an alumnus of the polytechnic, former Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, and the Olu-Omo designate of Ijebu-Igbo Kingdom, is part of his ongoing efforts to give back to the institution that played a formative role in his life. He reaffirmed this commitment during a meeting with the polytechnic’s management team held in the Rector’s Office on Thursday, 16th October 2025.

Welcoming Alhaji Lawal and the Management team to the meeting, the Rector, Engr. Dr. Mobolaji A. Onasanya expressed delight at the philanthropist’s visit, noting that the gathering was convened to formalise discussions on his proposed infrastructural project for the institution. Dr. Onasanya described the gesture as “a timely and noble intervention” that aligns with the institution’s drive to strengthen entrepreneurial education and practical learning.

Speaking during the meeting, Alhaji Lawal emphasised that the proposed Entrepreneurial Centre is only the beginning of several developmental projects he intends to execute at Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic. He assured the management that the structure would be completed within a short period, adding that his motivation stemmed from a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility to his alma mater.

“This institution contributed immensely to shaping who I am today. It is only proper that I give back in a way that will empower the next generation of innovators and leaders,” he stated.

In her goodwill remark, the Deputy Rector of the institution, Dr. S.T. Akindele, lauded Alhaji Lawal for his humility and sense of purpose, commending him for not forgetting his roots. She also appealed to him to help reach out to other well-to-do alumni of the institution, encouraging them to emulate his example by investing in the institution’s development.

“We are proud of you, and we hope that other alumni will be inspired to follow your path by donating structures and facilities that may even be named in honour of their families,” Dr. Akindele remarked.

The Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. K.O. Ogunbote, commended Alhaji Lawal’s magnanimity and described his gesture as both inspiring and exemplary. Drawing on the popular phrase “as Oliver Twist,” Dr. Ogunbote appealed to him to consider including a 250-seater lecture hall alongside the Entrepreneurial Centre. In his response, Alhaji Lawal promised to look into the request and assured the management that he would not relent in supporting the institution’s infrastructural growth.

On behalf of the management, the Acting Registrar, Mrs. Akimat Ogunneye, presented a letter of appreciation and the structural plan of the proposed Entrepreneurial Centre to Alhaji Lawal. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for his benevolent gesture and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the successful completion of the project.

The meeting, attended by the management team of the polytechnic, ended with prayers offered by the Acting Bursar, Mr. Ibikunle Idowu, who prayed for divine guidance, prosperity, and strength for Alhaji Lawal and the entire management team as they work towards actualising the development plans for the institution.

The proposed Entrepreneurial Centre, when completed, is expected to serve as a hub for innovation, skill acquisition, and business incubation, thus providing students with practical training to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world enterprise.

With this partnership, Alhaji Lawal Ayokunle Ibrahim, fondly called Abinugbola, continues to etch his name in the annals of AAPOLY’s history as a distinguished alumnus dedicated to the advancement of education and community development.