Governor Makinde Renames Ibadan Polytechnic After Late Former Governor Omololu Olunloyo

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially renamed The Polytechnic, Ibadan to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic in honour of the late former governor and first rector of the institution, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, who passed away on April 6, 2025, just weeks before his 90th birthday.

Governor Makinde made the announcement on Thursday, June 26, 2025, during an interdenominational commendation service held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan. Dr. Olunloyo was a renowned scholar, statesman, and one of Makinde’s most trusted advisers. Prior to becoming governor, he served as the pioneer rector of the institution, making the renaming a fitting tribute to his educational legacy.

Governor Makinde also revealed that the state government will digitise and preserve Olunloyo’s vast personal library, which he described as a “treasure trove of solutions” relevant to Nigeria’s development. The initiative will transform the late elder statesman’s literary collection into a knowledge hub and tourist attraction.

In addition, Makinde disclosed plans to commission the Omololu Olunloyo Leisure Park, located in the Alakia Airport area of Ibadan, which was named in his honour in 2023. The 3km Airport Road had previously been named after the late governor as part of efforts to commemorate his contributions.

“The institution will now be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan,” Makinde declared during the tribute.

“I have lost a partner… When people wonder why Oyo State has remained peaceful under my administration, they don’t know I seek guidance from leaders like Baba who shared their wisdom without interfering,” he said.

Governor Makinde described the late Olunloyo as a pillar of intellect and governance whose wisdom and service to Oyo State and Nigeria must be immortalised.

These initiatives—including the renaming of the polytechnic, preservation of his library, and development of public spaces—form part of the governor’s broader vision to invest in education, heritage, and tourism, ensuring that future generations benefit from Olunloyo’s legacy.