The family of the late Engineer Ayobami Abdurafii Oladejo has donated a significant collection of engineering books to The Polytechnic, Ibadan, fulfilling his final wish and leaving a lasting educational legacy.
The presentation ceremony, held in a modest yet heartfelt gathering, was attended by family members, close friends, and academic representatives. Leading the delegation were his widow, Alhaja Salamotu Mosebolatan Oladejo, and his lifelong friend, Pharmacist Timothy Olubode Okewale.
Speaking during the event, Okewale reflected on their enduring friendship and Oladejo’s deep commitment to education and national development. “We were more than friends. Though I am a Christian and he was a Muslim, he trusted me with his final wishes. That speaks volumes about the strength of our bond and the kind of man he was—intelligent, compassionate, and driven by purpose.”
Receiving the donation on behalf of the institution, Acting Rector Dr. Taiwo Abideen Lasisi expressed sincere gratitude and highlighted the profound significance of the gesture.
“Engineer Oladejo was neither a graduate nor a former staff member of this institution, yet he chose to remember us in his will,” Dr. Lasisi said. “His name is now etched into our history, and future generations of students will benefit from his generosity.”
To commemorate the donation, Dr. Lasisi announced that a dedicated section of the Engineering Library would be named in honour of Engineer Oladejo. He also revealed plans to confer a posthumous award recognizing Oladejo’s exceptional contributions to engineering education in Nigeria.
In her tribute, Alhaja Salamotu Oladejo described her late husband as a visionary and principled man. “He became a certified engineer at 27 and remained a respected professional all his life. Even while planning for his transition, he focused on how his knowledge could continue to serve future generations,” she said. “It was his wish that these books help educate students who will contribute to building the Nigeria of our dreams.”
Also in attendance were his son, Mr. Ololade Oladejo; family friend Mr. Oladapo Rasheed; faculty members from the School of Engineering; senior librarians; and students, many of whom expressed their appreciation for the donation.
Born on September 2, 1957, in the Beere area of Ibadan, Engineer Oladejo began his education at C.A.C. Primary School, Olugbode, and later attended Prospect High School, Abanla. He earned his degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1979, followed by an MBA from Lagos State University and an MSc in Information Technology from OAU.
His professional journey included roles at the Oyo State Ministry of Works and Unilever Nigeria Plc, where he served until retirement. A recipient of both Western State and Federal Government scholarships, Engineer Oladejo was known for his dedication, integrity, and excellence.
The donation is expected to encourage a culture of giving among professionals and alumni, further strengthening Nigeria’s educational institutions.