Makinde Confirms New Leadership Team for The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Ends Acting Appointments

The Oyo State Government has officially appointed a new set of substantive principal officers for The Polytechnic, Ibadan, marking the end of an extended period during which the institution was managed by officials serving in acting capacities.

Governor Seyi Makinde approved the appointments of a substantive Rector, Registrar, Bursar, and Librarian, a move the state government says is aimed at strengthening governance, ensuring administrative stability, and supporting the institution’s long-term academic development.

New Principal Officers Announced

According to the Oyo State Government, Dr. Lasisi Taiwo Abideen has been appointed as the substantive Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan.

Other appointments include:

• Dr. Olajide Taiwo Sherifat – Registrar
• Mr. Adegbola Abiodun Kolawole – Bursar
• Mr. Osunrinade Olukunle Akinbola – Librarian

The appointments were confirmed in a statement issued by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, following Governor Makinde’s approval.

Selection Process Followed Official Guidelines

Providing details on the recruitment exercise, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, said the selection process complied with the regulations governing appointments into senior leadership positions in Oyo State-owned tertiary institutions.

According to the commissioner, the process began with the public advertisement of the vacant positions in national newspapers, allowing qualified candidates to apply.

Applicants were subsequently screened and interviewed by the Governing Council of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, led by Professor Lanre Nassar, before recommendations were forwarded for the governor’s approval.

The government said the appointments became effective on July 31, 2026, with each principal officer expected to serve a single five-year tenure, in line with applicable regulations.

Why the Appointments Matter

The confirmation of substantive principal officers represents an important administrative milestone for The Polytechnic, Ibadan.

Leadership stability is considered a key factor in the effective management of higher education institutions. With permanent office holders now in place, the institution is expected to have greater continuity in policy implementation, financial administration, academic planning, and institutional reforms.

The appointments also end a prolonged period in which several strategic positions were occupied by acting officials, providing clearer administrative direction for staff, students, and other stakeholders.

Government’s Expectations

The Oyo State Government said it expects the newly appointed leadership team to provide strong institutional direction and promote continuous improvement across academic and administrative operations.

Prof. Adelabu congratulated the appointees and urged them to focus on:

• Improving academic excellence.
• Strengthening institutional governance.
• Promoting administrative stability.
• Driving sustainable growth and development at the institution.

Background

The Polytechnic, Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s oldest state-owned tertiary institutions and plays a significant role in technical, vocational, and professional education. Its principal officers oversee key areas including academic leadership, administration, financial management, and library services.

The appointment of substantive officers is generally viewed as an important step toward ensuring consistent leadership, strategic planning, and improved institutional performance.

Timeline

• Vacancies advertised in national newspapers.
• Qualified applicants submitted applications.
• Governing Council conducted screening and interviews.
• Recommendations forwarded to Governor Seyi Makinde.
• Governor approved appointments.
• Appointments took effect on July 31, 2026.
• New leadership team officially assumes substantive roles.

What to Watch Next

Attention will now shift to the new administration’s priorities, including academic reforms, infrastructure development, financial management, student welfare initiatives, and implementation of policies designed to strengthen the institution’s competitiveness within Nigeria’s higher education sector.