In an act to foster development in the educational sector, Tunde Fanimokun, the Retired Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Civil Service, has donated 150 hectares of land to Yaba College of Technology for the establishment of a green campus.
From the news gathered, on Thursday, Fanimokun has vowed to finance the construction of a state-of-the-art entrepreneurship centre at Yabatech, at an estimated cost of N3.5bn.
It was revealed that the donation marks a significant milestone in the advancement of sustainable development and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
The institution noted that Fanimokun’s contribution was made in commemoration of his 80th birthday, symbolising his unwavering dedication to fostering innovation and nurturing future leaders.
It stated that the donated land, located at the Apapa/Badagry axis, would serve as the foundation for a pioneering educational institution focused on environmental sustainability and entrepreneurial excellence.
Yabatech stressed that, the entrepreneurship centre will be named the Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre, in honour of the legacy of Wahab Folawiyo, a renowned figure in Nigeria’s business community.
Speaking about his philanthropic endeavours, Fanimokun stressed the need for diversification in Nigeria’s economy and expressed his belief in the transformative power of entrepreneurship training and skill acquisition.
The management of yabatech said, the Green Campus is expected to run about 22 courses and over 40 other programmes on certification in sustainable development and other areas of developmental needs.
According to the former Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Public Service, diversification is the only remaining turning point for the Nigerian economy instead of excessive dependence on revenue from oil and gas as a mono-cultural economy.
He stated, “Entrepreneurship is the key to prosperity, and with entrepreneurship training, skill acquisition and promotion of small and medium enterprises, the sky is the limit for the future of the young ones in our potentially great nation.”
Also speaking, Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology, noted that he was filled with immense pride and optimism for the future of education in Nigeria.
He said, “Today, we witness history again. We celebrate the groundbreaking of a new facility, generously endowed by a true visionary, Chief Tunde Fanimokun. His philosophy of philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and good governance serves as an inspiration to all.”
Abdul declared that the proposed Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre will be more than just an academic building.
He said that it would be a vibrant hub, symbolising a commitment to excellence, progress, and nurturing future generations of successful entrepreneurs, who will contribute to the country’s development.
