- Adeleke noted that a well-informed population plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable
- He added that educated citizens are less likely to be misled by false information, recognizing genuine leadership from self-serving governance
- Alatoye explained that the university aims to be more than just an academic center, but a hub for excellence rooted in knowledge
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has highlighted the importance of an educated citizenry as a cornerstone for ensuring effective governance.
Speaking on Thursday in Ikirun, Osun State, during the formal opening of Minaret University and the investiture of its first Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdullah Abdur-Rahman, the governor praised the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for establishing the faith-based institution in the state, Eko Hot Blog reports.
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Adeleke noted that a well-informed population plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable. “The achievements of the First Republic were expanded under the late Bola Ige’s administration through free education, creating a foundation for active citizens capable of resisting tyranny and impunity,” he said.
He added that educated citizens are less likely to be misled by false information, recognizing genuine leadership from self-serving governance. “Daily, educated individuals assess their leaders; they distinguish between liars and those truly serving the people,” the governor remarked.
Assuring the university founders of his administration’s full support, Adeleke expressed optimism that Minaret University, alongside existing and upcoming tertiary institutions, would enhance scholarship and promote good governance throughout Osun State.
Chancellor of the university, Azeez Alatoye, stated that Minaret University has commenced academic activities with courses in Data Science, Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, Marketing, and Logistics & Supply Chain Management.
Alatoye explained that the university aims to be more than just an academic center, but a hub for excellence rooted in knowledge, moral discipline, and service to humanity—principles upheld globally by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
“In a period of national social, economic, and moral challenges, universities must respond through quality education, research, innovation, and community engagement,” he said, urging students to uphold discipline and pursue excellence.
Prof. Abdur-Rahman, in his inaugural address, expressed commitment to transforming the university into a world-class institution that nurtures intellectual growth and skilled manpower for sustainable development at regional, national, and global levels.
The investiture ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
Dr. Kazeem Akinreti, Media Lead of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, confirmed in Osogbo that the event also marked the start of the university’s academic session. “The official inauguration of Minaret University, Ikirun, and the installation of the pioneer Vice-Chancellor was held on February 5 at the institution’s temporary site,” he said.
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