Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has urged Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, to develop homegrown technology that can foster development in Nigeria.
The governor said this while delivering his lecture on ‘Developing Exportable Alternatives for Nigeria’s Economic Recovery’ at the 36th Convocation Lecture of the college on Tuesday held on the campus.
Sawo-Olu said, “As a college of technology, full of talented academics and professionals in various fields of technological endeavour, you have the responsibility of inventing and producing the technology that will drive Nigeria’s industrial revolution.”
The governor, who spoke extensively on the importance of processing and value addition, said, “The machines and the technologies that can make this happen should come from institutions like Yabatech. The technologies that will turn our limited-value cocoa beans into limitless-value chocolate, our lithium reserves into high-tech batteries, that will turn our vast solar and wind energy potential into abundant electricity to power homes, factories, ports and so on.
“All of these technologies should ideally come from the researchers and inventors of Yabatech. You are the ones who should be at the forefront of the homegrown technology revolution that will make it possible for Nigeria to transform its natural resources into high-value processed goods that will be consumed locally and exported to the world.”
Addressing the graduating class of 2024, the governor made them realise they were stepping into a world of limitless possibilities.
He said, “The future of Nigeria depends on your courage to innovate, your willingness to challenge the status quo, and your determination to succeed. Take pride in your achievements today, but remember that this is only the beginning.
“Let no one mislead you. This journey you’re about to embark upon will not always be easy or rosy. But the world belongs not to those focused on seeking the easy way out, but instead to those who know that challenges and setbacks are inevitable and that they can be blessings to us, offering the chance to build the mental strength and clarity required to break boundaries and accomplish what status quo deems impossible.”
The event was graced by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was represented by the Economic Adviser to the President, Dr Tope Fasua.
While speaking, the Vice President, who chaired the occasion, also sought the help of Yabatech in ensuring that the local economy is protected in Nigeria.
The VP said, “We have even been inundated with the export of our precious grains in the phenomenon known as Japa. But where the challenge lies right now is how to add value to our products, produce primary and secondary products that our people need for a decent existence, and export the rest.
“We want to be able to retain the wealth of our people in Nigeria and not ship everything outside. Yabatech, we need your help.”
The Rector, Yabatech, Dr Abdul Adedotun, revealed earlier that Yabatech was 77 years old in November, adding that this year, 8,139 students would be graduating.
He highlighted that the college was faced with many challenges that needed the attention of the government and well-meaning Nigerians.
“The challenges include but not limited to reconstruction of Bakassi Hostel, which was engulfed by fire some years back. This has reduced the number of bed spaces for our students; construction of another building for the School of Arts, Design and Printing; and construction of staff quarters to elevate staff welfare to bring about efficiency of staff; construction of a National Skill Resource Centre,”he said.
The Chairman of the Governing Council of the college, Prof. Funso Afolabi, appreciated the dignitaries present and added “We are proud to honour our graduates who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, innovation, and leadership. We also recognise the support of our parents, guardians, and sponsors who have played a crucial role in the success of our graduates.”
