By Dwelleth Morountodun
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has advocated for institutions of higher learning in Nigeria to focus more on practical skills acquisition and utilize technology to make Nigeria the Silicon Valley of Africa.
The Minister made this known while receiving a delegation of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, led by its Acting Rector, Mr. Adegun Olorunwa in the Minister’s Office in Abuja.
He commended the efforts of the Polytechnic in promoting career development, stating, “We are a country rich in potential but often constrained by a focus on certificates rather than skills.” He urged the institution to foster innovative thinking and entrepreneurship among students, emphasizing the importance of practical skills in today’s job market.
Tunji-Ojo, encouraged the management and students of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to embrace creativity and competition in their projects. “This polytechnic can become an innovation hub for Nigeria,” he stated.
He further challenged students to develop ideas that could lead to significant advancements in various sectors, including information technology and agriculture.
The Director, Press and Public Relations, Mr. Ozoya Imohimi, in a statement, said, the Minister emphasized the need for a shift in mindset towards wealth creation and innovation. “It is not about just meeting wants; it is about addressing needs. We must focus on being innovative,” he stated.
The Minister however, expressed optimism that, with focused efforts and collaboration, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic can lead the way in creating solutions to address both local and global challenges.
The discussion included updates on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) projects. The Minister assured the acting Rector that he would communicate with the Managing Director to ensure these projects continue without interruption. “Government is a continuum and we must conclude whatever project is inherited from our predecessors, and it is our duty to ensure that projects are not terminated due to changes in leadership,” he affirmed.
The Minister also promised to address the security concern on the Polytechnic campus raised by the Acting Rector.
In his remarks, Mr. Adegun Olorunwa, the Acting Rector, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, commended the Minister for facilitating projects in the Institution during his tenure as Chairman of House of Representatives’ Committee on Niger Delta Development Affairs.
