By Kanu Samuel
Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun is indeed a destiny developer, a visionary administrator, and a great helper of our time.
His remarkable contributions to the development of education in Ondo State can be traced back to his days as the Rector of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, wisdom, and uncommon commitment to institutional development.
Under his leadership, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic witnessed significant development in infrastructure and academic expansion. More departments were created, while fresh graduates were employed into the system. This not only created opportunities for young professionals but also strengthened the academic and administrative capacity of the institution.
His outstanding performance at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic gave him the opportunity to serve at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, during the administration of Governor Olusegun Mimiko. His wealth of experience, energy, wisdom, and administrative competence continued to distinguish him wherever he served.
No wonder His Excellency, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, also found his wealth of experience valuable and worked with him. During those challenging economic periods, Prof. Ajibefun demonstrated a strong commitment to the welfare of both staff and students and contributed immensely to sustaining the institutions under his watch.
Today, under the administration of Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, popularly described as Mabaja, Maba Binu, his experience and expertise have again become valuable at a crucial period in the history of tertiary education in Ondo State.
I can now understand why the Governor entrusted Prof. Ajibefun with such a critical responsibility across the tertiary institutions of the Sunshine State. Since his assumption of office, his contributions, advice, and professional guidance have continued to make a meaningful difference, particularly in addressing some of the financial and administrative challenges confronting our tertiary institutions.
The recent recognition of Governor Aiyedatiwa as an Education-Friendly Governor and the award presented to him in Abuja is another indication that purposeful leadership and the right professional advice can produce positive results.
*Well done, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun.*
Your contribution to the timely payment of outstanding obligations and the welfare of staff across our tertiary institutions is worthy of commendation.
Your experience, commitment, and passion for the development of education continue to speak for you.
I can confidently say that if a Ministry of Tertiary Education is eventually established in Ondo State, your wealth of experience makes you one of the strongest hands who could provide effective leadership in such a ministry.
And who knows? By next year, your wealth of experience may be needed even beyond Ondo State, perhaps at the national level in Abuja.
*Keep it up, our Divine Generation Professor.* You have continued to demonstrate that leadership is not merely about occupying an office, but about using one’s experience and God-given wisdom to develop people and institutions.
*The 2012 staff of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, shall continue to appreciate and remember your contributions to our institution and to the lives you positively impacted.*
Thank you, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, for being another Mabaja, Maba Binu of Ondo State.
May Almighty God continue to strengthen you, enlarge your capacity, and use you for greater service to humanity and the development of education.
God bless you, sir.
Bldr Prince Aderemi Adewodun, MNIOB
Oke Idanre in Ondo State.
8th October, 2026.
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