By Benjamin Adekunle Onileowo
The agitation, temporary and permanent sites, academic programmes and styles, corporate social responsibilities, principal officers of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti and the host community, Ilawe-Ekiti.
The establishment of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti has been greeted with immense joy and preparations by the people of Ilawe-Ekiti, the headquarters of Ekiti South West Local Government in Ekiti State.
It is important to note that the institution, along with five other colleges strategically approved for each of the six (6) geopolitical zones of the country, was established and signed into existence on April 18, 2023, by the former President of Nigeria, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.
This development is described as a dream come true for the people of Ilawe-Ekiti, and it has also received the approval of the current President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its eventual takeoff.
On Tuesday, July 11th, 2023, the youth and citizens of Ilawe-Ekiti took to the streets of the community to warmly welcome the pioneer Provost, Registrar, Bursar, and other principal officers of the newly established Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti. The community members organized a carnival-like mega rally to express profound gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria for choosing Ilawe-Ekiti as the location of the esteemed institution.
The establishment of the Federal College of Education in Ilawe-Ekiti represents a significant milestone in the educational history of the community. There is optimistic anticipation that the institution will have a transformative impact in future by offering high-quality education and skills training to Nigerian youth and students. It is expected to bring about development and progress to the host community, Ilawe-Ekiti.
The community members have shown great appreciation to the esteemed monarch, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade 1, the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, and other prominent sons and daughters of the community for their relentless efforts in championing the establishment of the institution within the domain. Since 2016, the Monarch has evidently and persistently pursued this cause, and his dedication has ultimately yielded a successful outcome.
The Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti, will be located on a spacious land area of at least 500 plots (50 hectares) along tlIlawe-Ikere Road. The college will be dedicated to science, humanities, vocational and technical education, with at least five faculties, providing a well-rounded educational experience. As a temporary site for the institution’s initial operations, the United High School, situated along Ilawe-Igede Road, has been selected as necessary upgrades are currently underway.
The Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti will be structured in a manner similar to a university. This new structure will enable the college to offer degree, masters and PhD programmes, through partnerships with local and international universities.
The NCE programme will also be included, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience. With this structure, the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti aims to expand its offerings and provide students with a diverse range of academic opportunities.
The institution plans to establish secondary and primary schools as part of its corporate social responsibilities to the host community, Ilawe-Ekiti. It also aims to provide access to its healthcare facilities.
The Ilawe Community, under the leadership of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi Afuntade, Afuntade 1, has taken steps to ensure that proper accommodation is available for the college officers, and in the long term, the staff and students of the institution. This demonstrates commitment to supporting the institution and its students.
PRINCIPAL OFFICERS OF THE FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ILAWE-EKITI
Dr. Ajigbade Ikuejube was on 28th May, 2023 appointed as the pioneer Provost of the Federal College of Education, as approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Education. With over 20 years of academic and administrative experience, Dr. Ikuejube has a strong background in education, he has held various esteemed positions, including Head of the Department of History, Dean of the Art and Social Department, Chairman of the Board of Deans, former Deputy Provost, and Acting Provost of the Adeyemi Federal College of Education, Ondo State among others. This extensive experience reflects Dr. Ikuejube’s deep knowledge and commitment to education and leadership within the field.
Mrs. Khadijat Wuraola Garba has also been appointed as the pioneer Registrar of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti. She brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Deputy Registrar of the University of Ilorin, worked in the Directorate of Academic Support Services, among other notable positions in the University. With her extensive background in academic administration, Mrs. Garba is well-equipped to contribute to the growth and success of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti. Her appointment highlights the college’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to key leadership roles.
Associate Professor Isha Abdulmubin is the newly appointed pioneer Librarian of the Federal College of Education. Prior to his appointment by the Federal Government, he served as a lecturer at the Department of Library and Information Science in the University of Ilorin. Additionally, he brings valuable experience from his tenure as the librarian of the NTA Television College. With his expertise and academic background in library science, Associate Professor Abdulmubin is well-suited to lead the college’s library and contribute to the academic endeavours of the institution, as he promised to work towards a world-class library for the institution with the support of the Federal Government and private bodies.
Mr. Muritala Steve Shittu has recently been appointed as the pioneer Bursar of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti. Prior to this appointment, he served as an accountant at Adekunle Ajasin University in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State. Mr. Shittu also held the esteemed position of pioneer Bursar at the University of Medical Science in Ondo State. With his extensive experience in finance and accounting, Mr. Shittu is well-equipped to handle the financial affairs of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti, and contribute to its growth and success.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ILAWE-EKITI
llawe Ekiti is the headquarters of Ekiti South West Local Government, with an estimated population of over 200,000, ranks as one of the top and popular cities in Ekiti State, situated about 14 kilometres southwest of Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital, and it shares boundaries with Ikere, Igbara-Odo, Ikogosi, Erijiyan, Igede, Aramoko and Ado-Ekiti.
Its geographic coordinates are 7° 35′ 60 N and 5° 5′ 60 E. It is bisected by Erita stream which captures into its valley, the drainages from the granite hills surrounding the town, the location which was believed to have offered adequate security from external aggression in the early times. It could easily be defended by fortifying the passes or gaps between the interlocking hills. Like other prominent Yoruba towns, llawe Ekiti originated from Ile-Ife, the cradle of Yoruba race.
The Economy of the town is based on large and small scale Agriculture – blessed with banana and cocoa of all species, crafts and trade.
Ilawe-Ekiti is divided into eight different quarters named: Okeemo, Okebedo, Irorin, Aaye, Okepa, Okeloye, Iro and Adin. Ilawe Culture and dialect are unique and bear no resemblance to any other as her People are equally unique, courageous and resilient with accommodative spirit.
Benjamin Adekunle Onileowo is a writer, student leader, blogger, and advocate for good governance and youth development. He can be reached via benonileowo01@gmail.com or 08140361743.