Preparations have intensified for the grand finale of the convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro (FUTI), formerly known as The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, as the institution secured the royal blessing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland ahead of the April 15, 2026 event.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the institution, Dr. Mukail Aremu Akinde, on Sunday, March 1, 2026, led a high-powered delegation on a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who is also the Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas. The visit was to formally present a letter of invitation to the revered monarch as one of the recipients of the institution’s Fellowship Award during the convocation ceremony.
The monarch received the delegation at his palace and graciously accepted the invitation. He also offered royal prayers and blessings for the success of the ceremony, while emphasizing the importance of education and the role of higher institutions in national development.
The April 15 convocation grand finale is expected to mark a major milestone in the institution’s history following its transition from a polytechnic to a full-fledged university of technology. According to the management, diplomas, academic prizes and honours will be conferred on deserving graduands, while Fellowship Awards will be presented to eminent Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to leadership, governance and national development.
Among those expected to receive Fellowship Awards is the Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umar Radda, alongside other distinguished Nigerians from various sectors.
The ceremony is also expected to attract prominent dignitaries from across the country, including political leaders, traditional rulers, policymakers and members of the academic community.
Members of the delegation who accompanied the Acting Vice-Chancellor to the Olubadan’s palace included the Deputy Rector (Administration), Tpl. Lukman Lasisi; the Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli; the Acting Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo Abideen Lasisi; the Olubadan’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Adeola Oloko; and the Public Relations Officer of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Mogaji Soladoye Adewole.
The university management stated that preparations are in top gear to ensure a successful ceremony that reflects the institution’s renewed vision, academic excellence and growing national relevance.
The upcoming convocation is widely seen by stakeholders in the education sector as both symbolic and strategic, as it marks the institution’s new identity as a university of technology while celebrating individuals whose leadership and service contribute to national development.
