The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) National has commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for what it described as responsive, compassionate and promise-driven leadership following the fulfillment of his pledge to reward outstanding graduates of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY).
In a statement signed by the National President of NAOSS, Aare Oluwafemi Ajayi (FM Castro), the students’ body praised the Governor for approving and disbursing ₦2.5 million each to nine exceptional MAPOLY graduates, including beneficiaries whose awards dated as far back as 2016.
NAOSS recalled that shortly after its emergence as the recognized leadership of Ogun State students on 13 December 2025 at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), it held a press conference where it formally presented its demands to the Ogun State Government. Central among these demands was the fulfillment of Governor Abiodun’s earlier pledge to reward outstanding MAPOLY graduates.
According to Ajayi, it was “remarkable and historic” that within less than two months, the Governor not only listened but acted decisively, describing the move as a rare demonstration of leadership that treats promises as binding obligations rather than political rhetoric.
“This action reaffirms that His Excellency is a leader whose ears are open to the people and whose commitments are sacred,” NAOSS stated.
The students’ body noted that the awards were in fulfillment of the promise made by Governor Abiodun during MAPOLY’s 15th Combined Convocation Ceremony in June 2025, an event that also featured the announcement of a ₦2 billion intervention fund for the institution. According to NAOSS, the fulfillment of both commitments underscores a governance style rooted in consistency, accountability and respect for excellence.
NAOSS also showered encomium on the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, applauding his “visionary leadership and professional handling” of the award presentation. The association noted that the Commissioner’s firm stance against examination malpractice, coupled with his advocacy for rewarding diligence, sends a strong message that merit remains the pathway to success in Ogun State.
A particularly emotional moment highlighted by NAOSS was the inclusion of the family of late Orisawayi Samuel Emmanuel, popularly known as Samoriz, who passed away in December 2025 before receiving the reward for his academic brilliance. His brother, Johnson Timileyin, received the award on behalf of the family and recounted the health challenges that preceded his death.
“After treatment, he was able to talk again, but he could not walk very well. We continued to care for him at our mother’s home before communication suddenly stopped, and we were later informed of his passing,” Timileyin said.
He added that the award was not merely about money but about honouring academic excellence, noting that the funds would be used to support the education of younger family members and possibly immortalise his late brother’s name.
NAOSS described the gesture as evidence of a government driven by empathy and humanity, not policy alone.
“Your Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, this is governance with conscience, memory and honour. Ogun State students are not only watching; we are encouraged, reassured and proud,” the statement read.
The association concluded by affirming its appreciation of a Governor who listens promptly and a Commissioner who delivers with clarity and vision, adding that history would record the moment as a landmark in student–government relations in Ogun State.
