The Igbomina Youth Assembly, the umbrella socio-cultural body representing all Igbomina youths both locally and abroad, held a press conference today at Igbomina House in Ganmo. The gathering aimed to express deep appreciation for the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, and to highlight the outstanding performance of Mr. Quadri Olanrewaju Lamidi, the Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences, Oke-Ode.
In a statement delivered during the conference, Engr. Jimoh Rasheed Temitope, President of the Igbomina Youth Assembly, began by thanking the Kwara State government for situating the College of Nursing Sciences in Oke-Ode, a move that has significantly spurred development in the community. The Assembly acknowledged the critical role tertiary institutions play in accelerating the growth of host communities, noting that Oke-Ode has already begun to reap such benefits.
“We cannot forget to appreciate His Excellency for his positive disposition and passion towards the youth, as evidenced through his policies, patronage, and engagement in governance. We pray that Almighty Allah continues to guide him,” Engr. Temitope said.
The Assembly lauded the appointment of Mr. Quadri Olanrewaju Lamidi as the Provost of the College in October 2022, describing his leadership as a blessing for both the institution and the Oke-Ode community. The press statement emphasized that Mr. Lamidi’s tenure has brought about significant innovation and development in a short period, benefiting both the college and the wider Igbomina Land.
“Mr. Lamidi has proven beyond reasonable doubt that he is an academic, seasoned administrator, professional in the field of nursing, and a man of integrity who will not compromise his oath of office and the public interest,” the statement read.
The Assembly listed Mr. Lamidi’s notable achievements since assuming office, which include:
1. **Commencement of Computer-Based Testing (CBT)** for student examinations within the campus.
2. **Establishment of Two Additional Schools**: The School of Midwifery and the School of Public Health Nursing.
3. **Procurement of a Coaster Bus** for mobilizing students during clinical postings.
4. **Installation of Solar Power Facilities** to supplement electricity supply on campus.
5. **Appointment of Qualified Lecturers** to ensure high-quality training for students.
6. **Completion of an Abandoned Water Project** and near-completion of two blocks of classrooms donated by the Oke-Ode community.
7. **Successful Accreditation of Programs** by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and the National Board for Technical Education.
8. **Construction of a Football Field** and provision of other sports facilities to enhance extracurricular activities.
9. **Inclusion of the College in the UTME List** by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
10. **Refurbishment of Student Hostels** at the Kwara State Specialist Hospital, Oke-Ode.
In their concluding remarks, the Assembly urged Governor Abdulrasaq to continue supporting the current leadership of the College, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the progress achieved thus far. They also called on the staff of the College to cooperate fully with Mr. Lamidi’s administration to ensure ongoing peace and sustainable development.
The Igbomina Youth Assembly expressed their gratitude to Governor Abdulrasaq for his unwavering commitment to the development of Kwara State, reinforcing the belief that with collective effort, the state can continue to thrive.
The press conference concluded with a strong endorsement of the current leadership and a hopeful outlook for the future of the College of Nursing Sciences, Oke-Ode, under Mr. Lamidi’s guidance.