Adebayo Adenrele
A finance expert and the Group Managing Director of Flobal Financial Services Limited, Abayomi Adeyeri has identified visionary leadership, discipline and strategic focus as critical factors needed to improve the quality of education in Nigeria.
Adeyeri made this remark while speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti after he was conferred with the honorary doctor of finance (Honoris Causa) by his Alma mater, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU) during her 30th convocation.
According to him, the responsibility largely rests on effective leadership and a strong culture of discipline within institutions to improve the standard of education in Nigeria.
Adeyeri stressed that universities must begin to explore sustainable investments capable of improving facilities and supporting academic excellence.
He described the honour by his alma mater, as both delightful and miraculous, given the large number of graduates produced by the institution over the years.
According to him, for any university to single out one among hundreds of thousands of alumni for recognition is a significant gesture that deserves appreciation.
Speaking on how he intends to give back to the institution, Adeyeri explained that he is already involved in development efforts within the university community, noting his role as the Chairman of the Advanced Development and Partnerships Committee of the University, where he is working to attract investments that will support infrastructure development.
He revealed that one of the ongoing projects is the construction of a bed hostel facility within the Alumni Village, adding that the foundation for the project was laid recently.
Adeyeri added that initiative will not only address accommodation challenges but also introduce commercial investments that will enhance the financial sustainability of the institution.
He explained that beyond hostel accommodation, other commercial activities and structures are expected to be developed within the facility to generate value and help position the university as a model for quality infrastructure in the higher education sector.
His words, “It is so delightful and interesting and I’m very happy. You know how many people have graduated from this university over the years , we are talking about hundreds of thousands of alumni.
“For your alma mater to consider you worthy of this award is something very interesting.
“If you ask me basically what is required for the standard of education to improve in Nigeria, it is discipline and the power of focus.
“Leadership must be focused and must be able to see ahead to be visionary leaders who know exactly where they want to be in the next five, six, seven, or even ten years, and then develop strategies that will ensure those objectives are met.
“Staff members must be disciplined, must be focused, and must be determined to always do their best without looking back”.
