Ile-Ife, Osun State — April 2, 2026 The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, on Thursday witnessed a landmark moment in Nigeria’s academic and engineering landscape with the inauguration of the ₦150 million MicCom Memorial Endowment Fund for Engineering Development. The endowment, established by the Ponnle family, honours the enduring legacy of late engineering icons, Michael Ayantunde Ponnle and Comfort Olufunke Ponnle, whose contributions to indigenous manufacturing and engineering development in Nigeria remain widely celebrated. Held at the university’s Oduduwa Hall, the event drew dignitaries from government, academia, and industry, underscoring the significance of the initiative in shaping the future of engineering education in the country. Speaking at the inauguration, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, described the endowment as a strategic investment rather than a symbolic gesture, noting that the lives of the late Ponnles continue to inspire long after their pass...
Governor Ademola Adeleke has summoned the management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over the persistent blackout affecting Osogbo and other major towns across Osun State, describing the situation as “unbearable for residents.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the governor expressed deep concern over worsening power supply, noting that field reports indicate severe disruptions to businesses and daily life.
“I have received widespread complaints from all our major towns. Businesses are grinding to a halt. We cannot continue like this,” Adeleke said, adding that the IBEDC management has been invited for urgent consultations aimed at finding immediate and sustainable solutions.
The governor acknowledged the capital-intensive nature of the power sector and its nationwide challenges but stressed that Osun State must not continue to bear the brunt.
“As much as we recognise that this is a national issue, Osun is suffering greatly. We must work collaboratively with IBEDC to achieve short-term relief while pursuing long-term solutions,” he stated.
Adeleke further revealed that his administration is prioritising energy diversification, with a strong focus on renewable energy as a sustainable alternative. He, however, emphasized the need for affordability to ensure accessibility for residents.
Highlighting policy progress, the governor disclosed that the state has enacted the Osun Electricity Law and is set to establish the Osun Electricity Regulatory Commission. The proposed body will oversee licensing of power generation companies and regulate the electricity market within the state, a move expected to boost investment and safeguard consumer interests.
While long-term reforms are underway, Adeleke directed the Commissioner for Energy to urgently convene a stakeholders’ meeting involving IBEDC and consumer advocacy groups to address immediate concerns.
Emergency Support for Rainstorm Victims
On the recent rainstorm disaster, the governor assured affected residents of swift government intervention. He confirmed that the state emergency management agency has commenced the compilation of victims’ data to ensure comprehensive support.
Affected individuals have also been encouraged to submit their details directly to the agency for inclusion in the relief programme.
Adeleke disclosed that the state government is already engaging national bodies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Economic Council (NEC), to mobilise additional support for victims.
He also commended Osun West Senator, Lere Oyewumi, for bringing attention to the incident at the Senate level.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to alleviating the hardship caused by both the power crisis and natural disasters, assuring residents that no effort will be spared in delivering relief and long-term solutions.


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