Advocacy for the Establishment of the University of Ilesa
Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi championed efforts to upgrade the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, to the University of Ilesa.
Championing The Establishment Of University Of Ilesa
Among the many landmark achievements of Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi, one stands monumental in scale and eternal in impact is the facilitation of the upgrading of the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, to the University of Ilesa, the first full-fledged university in the political, economic, geographical, and cultural headquarters of Ijesaland.
For many years, since 1978 and over 16 different government administrations in the former Oyo State and current Osun State, the people of Ijesaland had nursed the dream of having their own university; a citadel of learning that would reflect their identity, preserve their culture, and empower future generations through higher education.
Despite being one of the most educationally advanced and economically vibrant zones in Osun State, Ijesaland lacked a university to call its own, a glaring gap that denied thousands of Ijesa youths access to quality tertiary education within their homeland.Then came Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi, with a heart committed to change and a voice determined to be heard. Harnessing his towering influence, strategic thinking, and diplomatic prowess, Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi became the leading advocate and master facilitator of the bold transformation that turned what was once the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, into the University of Ilesa, a historic milestone for which generations will forever remain grateful.
This transformation did not come by wishful thinking. It required strategic planning, political engagement, and relentless advocacy, all of which Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi spearheaded with distinction. Working behind the scenes and at the frontlines, he engaged key stakeholders at state level, liaised with academic bodies, and galvanized the support of political, traditional, and community leaders. He matched his words with action, constantly pushing boundaries, submitting memoranda, and organizing consultations that emphasized the educational, economic, and cultural necessity of the College upgrade into a full-fledged University.
Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi’s effort was both intellectual and political, he built the case with data, framed it with historical perspective, and pursued it with unwavering resolve. His credibility, earned over years of selfless service to Ijesaland, proved decisive, Government listened., Authorities responded, and history was made. In this mission, he received vital support and collaboration from distinguished Royal Fathers in Ijesaland, community leaders and stakeholders whose contributions were instrumental to the success of the project.
Key amongst the notable influencers were the following:
- The Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Late His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, whose royal endorsement and moral authority gave the initiative cultural legitimacy.
- His Excellency, Former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, under whose administration the official approval and policy backing for the upgrade were secured.
- His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, whose government embraced the project’s continuity and oversaw its ongoing development.
- Dr. Charles Akinola, whose strategic insights and expertise added momentum to the government administrative machinery.
- Rt. Hon. Timothy Owoeye, Former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, whose legislative influence was key to enabling the transition.
- Chief Akin Akinola, a committed community leader whose support amplified the vision.
- Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole, whose academic counsel and inputs ensured the university’s foundational structure met global educational standards.
Together, this alliance driven by Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi’s leadership transformed aspiration into achievement. The official approval and announcement of the University of Ilesa marked a new dawn for Ijesaland. No longer would Ijesa sons and daughters have to look outward for university education. Now, within their homeland stands a world-class institution equipped to deliver degrees, generate research, and foster innovation.
The economic impact is already visible: jobs created, real estate revived, small businesses thriving, and intellectual energy pulsating across Ilesa and Ijesaland. Parents beam with pride. Students walk taller. The entire region pulses with a new sense of possibility.
At the heart of this transformation stands Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi, not as a beneficiary, but as the visionary catalyst, the man who helped turn dream into destiny.
Subscribe to Asiwaju’s Newsletter
Subscribe and receive newsletters from the office of Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi