Deacon Dr. Olalere, a native of Ogbomoso and a seasoned economic consultant with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), also has an active history in political advocacy and grassroots development across Oyo State. His voice carries weight among both technocrats and political stakeholders.
Speaking during a session with SOLIDSTARNEWS Reporter, Dr. Olalere highlighted the positive impact the Polytechnic has had on local communities, particularly Ayede, Ajaawa, and Iresa-Apa, emphasizing its role in boosting the local economy, real estate development, and social inclusion.
The siting of the Polytechnic in Ayede is a blessing that has opened up our region. Small businesses are growing, new housing is springing up, and our rural areas are being reconnected to the national grid of development, he noted.
He praised the leadership of Engr. Dr. Taofeek Abdul-Hameed, Rector of the institution, for his commitment to the Polytechnic’s early successes, including its participation in national sporting competitions alongside long-established institutions.
That our Polytechnic could compete at national level within a few short years shows the dedication of the Rector and his team. We must support them, he said.
In addition to applauding the Aresa of Iresa-Apa, His Royal Majesty Oba Moses Olayiwola JP is the name for Kabiyesi Aresaapa. , for championing peaceful collaboration and community development, Dr. Olalere also extended warm appreciation to the Soun of Ogbomoso Land, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, for his progressive leadership and encouragement of academic and infrastructural growth across Ogbomoso and its environs.
The Soun has been a father figure to all, and we deeply appreciate his wisdom and leadership in uniting our people around this noble project, he stated.
Dr. Olalere used the opportunity to appeal directly to members of the National Assembly from Oyo State, urging them to make Federal Polytechnic Ayede a strategic priority in future budgeting and legislative agendas.
This institution must move to its permanent site. We are appealing to all Oyo lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives ”let this Polytechnic be a shared constituency legacy. Through your budgetary input and constituency projects, the dream can become a reality, he said.
He further called on Ogbomoso indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to see the Polytechnic as a collective project deserving of unity, support, and personal investment.
We must not allow division or indifference. The Polytechnic belongs to all of us. Let’s work together with the leadership to raise it to greatness, he urged.
Dr. Olalere ended his message with warm Easter greetings, praying that the resurrection of Christ would spark spiritual, economic, and national revival, particularly in educational institutions like Federal Polytechnic Ayede.
