In October, Ibadan-born educationist Akande Kazeem Babatunde attended a short course (PSLC 47) at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.
The event got wide coverage and he has received several commendations from the political and educational community, all lauding his courage and commitment to learning and development. It is no surprise that Akande expressed his desire to attend the Senior Executive Course (SEC 46) slated to take place next year (2024) at the institute. Akande has shown zeal and passion in pursuing this endeavor and ensures he is among the lucky applicants who will be considered.
Akande in a press conference reflected on the tedious mode of application and the sacrifice he has had to make to put himself forward for this. The course which will cost millions of naira will be fully sponsored by Akande, making him one of the very few private and youngest citizens who will sponsor themselves. Akande extended appreciation to the political and educational community that has recommended and reached out on his behalf to ensure he achieves his aim.
He commended the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continuity approach to keeping facilities and operations running at the institute.
In addition, he noted and praised the efficiency of operations at the office of the Vice President, where applications for admission to the institute were processed. Akande extended his appreciation to the state government of Oyo state where he has received great commendations for his commitment to attending the Senior Executive Course (SEC 46). He appreciated the state governor, Oluseyi Makinde, alongside commissioners and legislators of Oyo state who have supported the course.
He further extended his appreciation to the former military governor of Oyo and Ogun states, Major-General Oladayo Popoola (rtd) OFR, mni, for his support and recommendation. He appreciated Group Captain Joshua Ogunbiyi mni, Dr Abdul-Ganiyu Obatoyinbo Ph.D, fcm, mni, Professor Yomi Oloruntoba, Rotarian Goddy Nnadi Ph.D mni, Hon Price Rotimi Agunsoye mni, Dr Barr. Adeniyi Adedoyin mni, Mr Oladapo Ogunleye mni, who reached out to him to laud his efforts after the completion of the short course. The chairman, the governing council of The Polytechnic Ibadan, Prof. Akinyemi was also mentioned in Akande appreciation statement.
Akande has also recognized the impact and support of the Rotary International District Governor, Ahmed Sagab, who has also thrown his weight behind him as he pursues this ambition. Professor Mashhud Adenrele Fashola of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria; Bishop Oluwajimade Daniel was also noted by Akande as another individual using the weight of his organization to ensure he was admitted to the institute. Traditional rulers have not been left out as Akande confirmed he got a recommendation from the Onido of Ido, the traditional ruler of Ido town; Alayeluwa Oba Muritala Gbolagade.
Akande also associated notable associations and organizations that have shown their support towards his quest to attend the Senior Executive Course. He noted and appreciated support from the Ibadan Tennis Club, Ibadan Recreation Club, Military Officer’s Mess, Ibadan, African Institute for Justice of the Peace, and Ecolerite Institute for Peace Advancement. The Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps; Assoc. Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Prof. Ter-Nenge Tyoor the President International Academy for Gender and Peace (IAGP), Professor Yomi Oloruntoba, Olaleye Gbolahan, Ishaku Beatrice Nathasha, and notable staff of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan most especially the Registrar; Dr Abass Abimbade were also appreciated for their immense contributions.
Akande stated that youth organizations have also done their best to add their voices to secure his admission to the institute.
He recognized the efforts of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS), Rotaract, AIESEC, Junior Chambers International, and other youth organization who has reached out to show support.
In conclusion, Akande appreciated and commended his course mates (The Bridge Buiders – course 47), members and staff of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies.
He noted the good work they were doing to contribute their quota in building future leaders that can set Nigeria in a good direction.
He especially appreciated the Director General of the institute, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, for playing an advisory role in spiking his interest in the Senior Executive Course and guiding him through the application also the other management team; Prof. Adeyanju Mojisola Akeem mni, Brig Gen CFJ Udaya mni, Prof. OJ.Para-Mallam mni, Prof. Pam Dung, Prof Jane Ande, Rt Hon Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Mrs Sandra Agbor, Mr Chinedu Okoye, Mrs Oluwakemi Aina, Mr Isiah Muhammed Ozi, Dajan Maksat Caleb, Maryann Badooh, Chioma Ohadiugha
Akande finally expressed his joy after the completion of the application process. He stated that he only looks forward to attending the full-year course at Kuru next year.
