Ibadan Polytechnic: The Renaming That Spoke Louder Than Eulogies

In a country where loud tributes often end in silence, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, chose a different route. Rather than just speak glowingly of the late Dr. Victor Omololu Sowemimo Olunloyo, he gave him something more enduring, a name that will be engraved in the future.

Last Thursday, during the funeral service for the late former governor and scholar, Governor Makinde announced that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, would now be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan. It was not just a renaming; it was a historical correction, a recognition long overdue. Olunloyo was not just a former governor; he was the pioneer principal of the institution. He helped shape its foundation, set its tone, and defined its early vision. For many years, his name had been mentioned in connection with the polytechnic, but only in passing. Now, with this decision, his role has been appropriately acknowledged.

Speaking at the service, Makinde said: “He was the first principal of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. That institution will now be named Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan.” It was a powerful gesture — one that will outlive any funeral sermon. Education stakeholders have praised the move. Dr. Funmilayo Odugbemi, a senior lecturer at the polytechnic, called it “a bold and meaningful tribute.” According to her, “Too often, Nigeria forgets her thinkers. This renaming gives our students a real-life example of what it means to combine academic brilliance with public service.”

Beyond the walls of the institution, experts believe the action has national significance. Professor Tunde Fagbohun, an education historian, said the renaming “goes beyond sentiment.” In his words, “We need to celebrate builders of ideas, not just holders of office. What Makinde did was to turn a passive remembrance into an active, living legacy.”

For polytechnic students, the change is more than cosmetic. Many now feel a renewed sense of pride. “It is like walking on a campus named after a legend,” said Olamide Bello, a student of Electrical Engineering. “It motivates us to take our studies seriously.”

From the government’s perspective, the renaming aligns with a broader agenda of honouring excellence. A top official in the Oyo Ministry of Education, who preferred not to be named, said, “Makinde believes in education and memory. This move combines both — it sends a strong message to our youths that ideas still matter.” In a time when politics is full of noise and empty talk, this decision by Governor Makinde is different. It demonstrates that simple actions, such as changing a school’s name, can make a significant difference.