Victoria Mgbanwa
The Chairman of DSE Foundation and revered statesman, Chief Rasheed Babatunde Fanimokun, has hailed the recent elevation of Yaba College of Technology to university status as the “perfect birthday gift.” He pledged to mark this significant milestone by initiating the construction of landmark buildings once the university formally begins operations.
Fanimokun made this heartfelt declaration during the First Distinguished Service Lecture of the institution, held at the Yusuf Grillo Auditorium.
The event themed, “Excellence, Integrity, Resourcefulness and Selflessness: The Hallmarks of Lagos State Public Service as a Case Study in Progress, Unity and Prosperity 1967–2025,” was a stirring tribute to the values that have shaped both Lagos State and YABATECH.
In his deeply reflective lecture, the former Lagos State Permanent Secretary applauded the Federal Government for elevating YABATECH’s status, expressing deep emotional attachment to the institution.
Highlighting Lagos State’s foundational public service principles, Chief Fanimokun paid glowing tributes to the state’s first military governor, Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson, for laying the bedrock of integrity, fiscal discipline, and resourcefulness. He also lauded the first civilian governor, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, for raising the banner of incorruptibility, calling for more visionary leaders in their mold.
Fanimokun described corruption as a global disease and a major barrier to development, affirming that Lagos has continued to defy the odds. He cited the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $259 billion, making it the second-largest economy in Africa, as evidence of the power of integrity-led governance.
He applauded the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS) for their role in preserving integrity within the public sector.
The Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, praised the honorees and urged them to continue championing values of selfless service, innovation, and excellence.
“Our commitment to providing quality technical and vocational education, fostering innovation, and engaging in community development projects demonstrate our dedication to these principles and to the progress of the nation, Not just to our professional roles, but the greater good of our communities and our nation. Let us all strive to embody the virtues celebrated today and contribute to a brighter future of Lagos State and Nigeria“. Said Dr. Abdul.
Representing the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, reiterated the government’s pride in YABATECH’s legacy, noting that it remains a model in academic excellence and leadership development.
“As we present these awards. Let us be reminded of the importance of recognizing the contributions of those who make a real difference in the success of our collective efforts”.
The best staff In various categories received cash prizes and plaques, with ₦200,000 awarded to overall top performers.
