Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has said Nigeria’s economic and technological future will depend on the strength of its universities and the quality of leadership they produce.

He made the remarks on Thursday while delivering a lecture at the Foundation Day of Federal University of Technology, Akure, where he was guest speaker.

Speaking on the theme “Leadership, Organisational Performance and Technology in a Rapidly Changing World,” the governor said higher institutions must go beyond awarding degrees.

“A university of technology exists not merely to award academic degrees but to produce skilled, innovative and technologically competent graduates,” he said.

Why it matters

Nigeria is grappling with youth unemployment, digital transformation, and global economic shifts.

Experts say universities play a key role in preparing graduates who can compete globally and drive innovation locally.

Aiyedatiwa warned that without strong leadership and adaptable education systems, the country risks falling behind.

“The true measure of leadership is not only what we achieve today, but the future we prepare others to build,” he said.

Leadership beyond titles

The governor stressed that leadership is not about authority, but influence and adaptability.

“Leadership remains fundamental to organisational success,” he said, adding that it involves motivating people towards shared goals rather than coercion.

He described leadership as a continuous process shaped by interaction, experience and changing realities.

According to him, effective leaders combine different styles including democratic and autocratic approaches depending on the situation.

Universities as drivers of innovation

Aiyedatiwa described universities as critical to innovation, human capital development and national competitiveness.

He cited institutions such as:

Federal University of Technology, Akure

Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology

Adekunle Ajasin University

University of Medical Sciences Ondo

as key to Ondo State’s development strategy.

He also referenced plans to upgrade Rufus Giwa University of Agriculture.

Technology reshaping leadership

The governor noted that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics are transforming leadership and organisational performance.

“Technology may change the tools we use, but leadership will always determine the direction in which society moves,” he said.

However, he cautioned that technology alone cannot guarantee success without strong leadership.

University response

The Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Adenike Oladiji, said leadership and technology are central to improving organisational performance.

“Technology has become central in the digital age, serving as a vital tool for leaders to shape organisational direction,” she said.

She also praised the Ondo State Government for infrastructure support, including a teaching hospital, water supply and road projects.

Industry and public perspective

Education analysts say Nigeria must align its university curriculum with global trends, especially in technology and leadership training.

What’s next

Aiyedatiwa urged universities to focus on:

Critical thinking

Adaptability

Leadership development

He said these skills are essential for navigating global disruptions.

The Delta State Police Command says it has deployed officers to all approved examination centres for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), in a move to strengthen security and prevent malpractice.

The Computer-Based Test (CBT) exams, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), are scheduled to run from 16 to 25 April across 31 centres in the state.

Police authorities say the operation is part of an “intelligence-led security framework” designed to ensure a safe and disruption-free exercise for candidates.

Security measures in place

The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has directed Area Commanders to take full responsibility for security at centres within their jurisdictions.

According to the police, this includes close supervision of officers, increased visibility patrols, and rapid response readiness.

A statement from the command said:

“Operatives have been strategically deployed to all thirty-one (31) accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across the State for a secure and hitch-free exercise.”

The police added that coordination would be maintained between Divisional Police Officers, tactical units, and examination officials.

Authorities also said special attention would be given to protecting ICT infrastructure from any attempt to compromise the integrity of the exams.

Warning against malpractice

The police warned candidates and others against engaging in examination malpractice, impersonation, or disorderly conduct.

“Examination malpractice, impersonation, or any form of disorderly conduct will not be tolerated, and offenders will be promptly arrested and prosecuted,” the statement said.

Candidates have also been advised to arrive early and comply with all examination guidelines.

Why it matters

The UTME is a key gateway to higher education in Nigeria, with hundreds of thousands of candidates competing for limited university placements each year.

Security concerns, including exam fraud and logistical disruptions, have in the past affected the credibility and smooth conduct of the exams.

Analysts say increased police presence could help restore public confidence, but stress the importance of balancing security with candidates’ comfort and accessibility.

Public cooperation urged

The police have called on residents to remain vigilant and support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities.

The command said members of the public can reach its control room via an emergency contact line for timely response.

“The Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property,” the statement added.

What’s next

Authorities say monitoring will continue throughout the examination period, with adjustments made where necessary to address emerging threats.

Candidates are expected to complete their exams by 25 April, after which JAMB will begin the marking and admission processes.

The Vice-Chancellor of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, has extended Easter greetings to Christians, urging them to embrace love, hope and sacrifice during the season.

Easter Message to University Community

In a statement marking Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Prof. Ologunorisa conveyed warm wishes to members of the university community and Christians beyond the institution.

He emphasised the importance of reflection and renewal, describing Easter as a period that should inspire both personal growth and collective responsibility.

“May this sacred period bring reflection, renewal, and joy to your hearts and homes,” he said.

Why It Matters

Easter is one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, symbolising sacrifice, hope and new beginnings.

For academic communities like OAUSTECH, such messages often serve as a reminder of shared values, including service, compassion and excellence—principles seen as essential in shaping both students and society.

Call for Compassion and Service

The Vice-Chancellor encouraged individuals to translate the lessons of the season into action, particularly in how they relate with others.

“May the spirit of love, hope, and sacrifice that defines this season inspire us all to greater heights of service, compassion, and excellence.”

His message aligns with broader calls across Nigeria during festive periods for unity, empathy and social responsibility.

Wider Context

Across Nigeria, religious and community leaders typically use Easter messages to address national values and encourage peaceful coexistence.

In recent years, such messages have also highlighted the role of education in fostering ethical leadership and civic responsibility.

What’s Next

Easter celebrations across campuses and communities are expected to continue through the weekend, with religious services, outreach activities and social gatherings.

Institutions like OAUSTECH are also expected to resume academic activities shortly after the holiday period.