Bank Chief to Support University of Ibadan Technology Hub
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the First Bank Group, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, has promised to be part of all efforts put in place to make the University of Ibadan (UI) a technology and educational hub of learning in Nigeria.
Adedutan, who made the pledge at his investiture as a UI@75 Ambassador, said all resources must be mobilised to ensure that UI retains its premier position among universities in the country.
Noting that technology drives the world, the CEO lamented that Nigerian universities were not meeting up with their peers in advanced societies in technological advancement, and pledged to help UI improve in that area.
He noted that technology was relevant to all courses of study in the University.
Adedutan recalled his days at UI and applauded the University for giving him the opportunity to graduate in flying colours as well as moulding his character, saying he had often reflected over his job performance and concluded that without the training he received in UI, he may not have been as successful as he is today.
He recalled with nostalgia, his days as a resident of Sultan Bello Hall, and said he was the first ever non-final year student to be elected Chief of the Sigma Club, an experience which shaped his views and thoughts that led him into the business world.
While performing the investiture ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of UI, Professor Kayode Adebowale, said the University of Ibadan had identified Dr Adeduntan as one of the worthy alumni to help celebrate the University in its 75th year of existence.
The Chairman of the UI@75 Anniversary Committee, Professor Peter Olapegba, identified the thematic projects for which the University intended to raise funds.
Olapegba listed the projects as the shoring up of the University’s Endowment Fund; infrastructure development; alternative energy for the University; students’ scholarship funds; and staff development funds.
He said the University expects its Ambassadors and Ambassadors Extraordinaire to select from among the projects and mobilise their friends and associates to raise funds for the University of Ibadan.
On the Vice-Chancellor’s entourage were the Registrar, Mr Ganiyu Saliu; the Chairman of the UI@75 Anniversary Committee, Professor Peter Olapegba; a retired Senior lecturer of Veterinary Medicine, Dr Gani Adeniran; and Mrs Adejoke Akinpelu, the Principal Assistant Registrar/Public Relations Officer.
The CEO of the First Bank Group was supported by Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Risk Officer/Executive Director; Mrs Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications; Mr Akinwale Olawoye, Chief of Staff to the CEO; Mr Adekunle Amujo, Business Support Executive, CEO’s Office; and Mr Ismail Omamegbe, Head Sustainability, Media and External Relations, all of the First Bank Group.
