Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has awarded a cash gift of N2.5 million to 85-year-old Bolaji Onafowokan, the oldest PhD graduate of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun. The announcement was made during the university’s 16th convocation ceremony, where the governor praised the exceptional achievement of the octogenarian, who earned his doctorate in Educational Media and Technology.
Speaking at the event, the governor said:
> “I am proud to announce that history is being made today. Not only is TASUED graduating its first set of Doctorate students, but it also has the oldest PhD graduate in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, making global headlines. He is now officially the sixth oldest PhD holder in the world. This is an unprecedented milestone for the institution, Ogun State, and Nigeria.”
Represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun expressed gratitude for Onafowokan’s resilience and commitment to learning, highlighting the importance of lifelong education.
The governor also urged TASUED to strengthen partnerships with research institutions, particularly in mechanized agriculture and agro-industrial development, areas critical to the state’s growth. He noted the increasing need for educators and extension officers to support these initiatives and emphasized TASUED’s potential to meet these demands.
Praising the institution’s leadership, he lauded the 100% accreditation of its programs and the diversification into arts, sciences, and social sciences, which reflect a commitment to addressing societal needs.
Additionally, the governor highlighted his administration’s investments in education infrastructure, curriculum development, teacher training, and student welfare, which have yielded remarkable successes at national and international levels.
The convocation ceremony celebrated the university’s achievements while calling for continued innovation and the production of graduates equipped to address societal challenges.
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