By Abdulfatah Babatunde
A renowned philanthropist, Chief Tunde Fanimokun, has donated an ultra-modern entrepreneurship centre to Yaba College of Technology in honour of the industrialist and philanthropist, late Chief Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo.
TheNewsZenith reports that the legacy project had its groundbreaking in the institution’s main campus in commemoration of the donor’s eightieth birthday celebration.
Fanimokun, a former Permanent Secretary in Lagos State, laid foundation of the N3.5 billion entrepreneurs centre, on Tuesday, April 9.
The date coincided with the day the donor was employed as Executive Director (Project) by the late Chief Wahab Folawiyo. It also coincided with the birthday of his daughter.
The four-story building, named Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre (FEC), will have many facilities.
These include four lecture theatres with 320 seating capacity each, one lecture theatre with 500 seating capacity, 19 classrooms, staff offices, numerous spaces for vocational activities and car parks.
Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony, Chief Fanimokun said the event was in honour of the late Alhaji Folawiyo OFR, CON, the founding father of Yinka Folawiyo Conglomerate.
“Exactly 40 years ago (1985), he initiated me formally into the twin subjects of entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
“I joined his business empire on a platter of gold on April 9, 1985, as an Executive Director (Projects).
“Ever since, I became a staunch advocate of entrepreneurship as the most vital pillar for sustainable development and everlasting prosperity in Nigeria.
“I became interested in entrepreneurship after my unplanned transition from the Lagos State Government Public Service at age 40. Since then, I have strongly advocated for promoting entrepreneurship at all levels.
”Before then, I learnt only informally about the subject matter under the late Gov. Lateef Jakande of Lagos State.”
He noted that diversification was the only turning point for the Nigerian economy, rather than excessive dependence on a mono-cultural economy.
Also speaking, the Rector of the College, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, said he was filled with immense pride and optimism for the future of education in Nigeria.
“This occasion marks a groundbreaking moment in Yaba College of Technology’s history. It also marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter,” he said.
According to him, the proposed Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre will be more than just an academic building.
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“It would be a vibrant hub symbolising the college’s commitment to excellence, progress and nurturing future generations of successful entrepreneurs.
“These entrepreneurs will contribute to the nation’s development,” the Rector said.
He recalled that the College has a rich history of endowments.
“The most significant before today’s donation, was the 45-acre land donation at Odoragunshin by the late Sir Michael Otedola, former civilian governor of Lagos state.
“In September 2022, under the leadership of Governing Council Chairman, Prince Lateef O. Fagbemi SAN and Rector, Engr. Obafemi Omokungbe, the College launched a historic N50 billion Endowment Fund.
“The College also launched an Endowment Fund Foundation with Dr James Naiyeju, leading the Board of Trustees of the foundation.”
He also spoke about the proposed Yabatech Green Campus at Snake Island. The campus, he said, represents another investment in the future of the College.
These include education, environmental sustainability and the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.
“Since its inception, our administration has been dedicated to consolidating the past and shaping the future.
“This event exemplifies our unwavering commitment to providing the best resources, environment, and support for our students and staff.
“The success of these projects is not without efforts and contributions of many of our esteemed partners and College community.
“To each of you, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support,” Abdul remarked.
In his brief remarks, the son of the late Chief Folawiyo, Barrister ‘Tunde Folawiyo expressed gratitude for Chief Fanimokun’s accomplishments and desire to honour his late father.
Tunde said Chief Fanimokun has contributed immensely to the great height of the success of the Folawiyos dynasty.
“He is a man who is always focused on achieving his set goals.
“He didn’t give our family prior notice about this magnitude stride of honouring my father,” Folawiyo (jnr) said.
He eulogised Fanimokun and expressed the family’s gratitude to him for the honour done to the family.
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