Femi Otedola, the renowned oil magnate and philanthropist, has made a generous donation of N3.7 billion to fund the second phase of Augustine University’s Faculty of Engineering complex, a project he initiated last year.
This latest contribution, expected to be completed within 12 months, reinforces his ongoing commitment to improving educational infrastructure and fostering academic growth at the institution. At the sixth convocation ceremony of Augustine University, Otedola expressed pride in the progress of the first phase and pledged that the second phase would meet its deadline, enhancing facilities for aspiring engineering students.
Alongside the faculty expansion, Otedola has also supported the university by offsetting one million naira in tuition fees for each student, making education more accessible for all. In his speech as Chancellor, he encouraged graduates to view education as a means to impact society positively.“Your degree represents more than academic achievement” he stated; it’s a testament to your dedication to lifelong learning and integrity.
Emphasising the importance of character, Otedola reminded students of the crucial role they have to play as future leaders equipped with both skill and ethical responsibility.
Further enriching the convocation’s significance, the Catholic Bishop of Lagos Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr Alfred Adewale Martins, highlighted Augustine University’s mission to produce well-rounded individuals, emphasising that education at the institution is designed to nurture moral, intellectual, and spiritual growth.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Christopher Odetunde expressed gratitude to Otedola and other benefactors, including Chief Stephen Bakare, who contributed to the development of the Faculty of Law. He acknowledged other ongoing projects, including new student hostels sponsored by the Church of Assumption, Falomo, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
The convocation keynote, delivered by Dr Peter Bamkole, focused on the importance of youth entrepreneurship in driving Nigeria’s economic revival. He stressed the necessity of equipping young Nigerians with unique skills to enhance their employability in a competitive labour market.
This substantial donation and series of developments highlight the growing commitment to creating an empowering environment at Augustine University, aligning with Otedola’s vision of a transformative educational experience.
