PROTOCOLS
I wish to commend the organizers, Ogun State Tertiary Institution’s Intellects for Tinubu and Yayi, for inviting me to present a keynote address at this inauguration ceremony. The topic which sounds more like a question is ‘Why Intellects for Tinubu and Yayi.’ Upon reflection, the answer seems obvious: why should intellects not be involved in governance? For how much longer will we allow others to assume leadership roles while excluding the most brilliant minds in the academia? This underscores the need for us to be deeply engaged in politics.
I stand before you today with deep respect for the vital role you play in shaping the intellectual and developmental trajectory of our nation. Academia has always been the conscience of the society, the engine of innovation, and the guardian of truth. It is within our universities, Institutions and scholarly circles that the ideas which transform nations are born.
Nigeria is once again at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey. The past years under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have witnessed reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening education, expanding social amenities and infrastructure and fostering national development. These efforts have laid an enduring foundation, but as you know, the true test of progress lies not in beginnings but in continuity. Long-term projects whether in infrastructure, education, or technology require sustained leadership to reach maturity.
For the academic community, continuity means stability in funding, consistency in policy, and the assurance that reforms will not be abandoned midway. It means that the grants supporting your research will grow, that the autonomy of universities will be respected, and that Nigeria’s scholars will be empowered to compete globally. It means that the innovation hubs springing up across our nation will not be short-lived experiments, but lasting institutions that drive economic growth and social transformation.
Your support, therefore, is not merely political it is intellectual. It is a recognition that the pursuit of knowledge thrives best in an environment of stability. By lending your voices to the cause of continuity, you help ensure that Nigeria’s academic institutions remain strong pillars of national development. You affirm that education is not a four-year project, but a generational commitment.
A second term for President Tinubu would allow for the expansion of these initiatives, ensuring universities remain hubs of excellence and scholars are empowered to spearhead national transformation. We invite you to ponder these achievements and consider how your endorsement can help maintain progress for the benefit of future generations.
Let us reflect on the progress made in the economy, in infrastructure renewal, political restructure and let us envision what more can be achieved if reforms are deepened rather than disrupted. Together, academia and leadership can forge a partnership that secures Nigeria’s place in the global knowledge economy. Together, we can ensure that the next generation of Nigerians inherits not only a democracy, but a nation where the future of our nation is secured and better nurtured
In Ogun state, we are having a defining moment in our state’s history, I am calling on you to reflect not only on where we have come from, but on where we are headed. Permit me to remind you that for decades, Ogun West has waited patiently for its turn to lead. Today, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola popularly known as Yayi has emerged as the consensus candidate of the APC , we therefore have before us a unique opportunity to make history in 2027
This is not merely about politics; it is about fairness, equity, and the promise of inclusive governance. Yayi’s journey from the legislature to the Senate has been marked by dedication, empowerment programs, and a commitment to grassroots development. His candidacy represents the voice of a region long overlooked, and the hope of a state ready to embrace balance and unity.
We appeal to you to lend your support not only for a man, but for a vision: a vision of Ogun State where every district has a stake in leadership, where education and innovation thrive, and where progress is shared by all. By standing together, we can break the jinx of exclusion and usher in a new era of opportunity.
Let us rise to this occasion. Let us support continuity, fairness, and the future of Ogun State. Together, we can make history.
Once again I congratulate the organisers of this event and I extend my warmest love to you all for standing firmly behind the candidature of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi. Im confident that our efforts and activities shall be crowned with success.
Thank you for your rapt attention
Thank you
Ajiroba Dapo Oke, FCIA, fisn,MNIM ◦
