…Harps on measures to fight insecurity
Leyoo Ajeokun
The outgoing Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU), Professor Edward Olanipekun, has urged governments at all levels to implement policies to ameliorate sufferings of Nigerians.
Professor Olanipekun made this appeal on Monday in Ado-Ekiti during his Valedictory Lecture titled “Reminiscences of my Journey in Life.”
The outgoing VC emphasized the severe hardship faced by Nigerians, highlighting the urgent need for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State and other state governors to introduce policies that will mitigate the economic challenges affecting the populace.
His words, “As a mark of responsibility and patriotism, our leaders must formulate and implement policies that will alleviate the hardship and suffering currently endured by vulnerable citizens in this country,.
“We must place our trust in God and work collectively to improve our nation. The harsh reality is that not everyone can leave the country; some of us must stay, for God did not make a mistake in creating us as Nigerians.
“We should avoid negative proclamations about our country and leaders and instead be willing to make sacrifices for Nigeria’s betterment.”
Addressing the issue of insecurity, Professor Olanipekun urged the federal government to tackle youth unemployment and introduce sustainable security measures to combat banditry across the nation.
“There is an urgent need for the government to address youth unemployment and implement effective measures to reduce hunger and starvation among the population. One approach is to introduce sustainable and realistic social security schemes,” he suggested.
On medical tourism by public servants, Professor Olanipekun stated; “The three tiers of government in Nigeria must take pragmatic steps to address the rot in our healthcare system. It is time for the legislature to enact laws that criminalize medical tourism by public servants.
“This will compel the government to allocate the necessary funds to transform public healthcare facilities across all 774 local government areas”.
In his remarks, the incoming VC of the institution, Professor Babatola Ayodele, hailed the outgoing VC for delivering a heartfelt lecture that not only chronicled his life but also reflected his experiences across various fields.
“Professor Edward Olanipekun’s achievements are evident, and I commend him for his selfless contributions to this institution.
“I hope that all relevant stakeholders will carefully consider his recommendations, though brief, as they are powerful and necessary for making Nigeria a better place to live,” Ayodele said.