Ilupeju-Ekiti is abuzz with excitement and palpable anticipation as the community gears up for the grand commissioning of the newly established National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Special Study Centre, a remarkable philanthropic initiative spearheaded and fully donated by the renowned architect and visionary philanthropist, Arc. Dr. Asiwaju Dipo Ajayi. This transformative educational project, valued at over ₦800 million, represents a bold stride towards elevating access to quality education and fostering innovation in the heart of Ekiti State.
The state-of-the-art complex boasts a newly constructed classroom block and a cutting-edge ICT centre, together worth more than ₦300 million, complemented by two existing 10-room office blocks exceeding ₦500 million in value. These facilities create a modern, conducive environment tailored for open and distance learning, perfectly aligning with NOUN’s mission to democratise higher education across Nigeria. Residents and stakeholders alike hail the development as one of the most significant community-driven educational endeavours in the state, poised to position Ilupeju-Ekiti as a vibrant hub for academic excellence, digital literacy, and sustainable growth.
The official commissioning ceremony is set for this Saturday, 25th October 2025, with Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, serving as the Special Guest of Honour. He will be joined by senior government officials, local community leaders, and representatives from the National Open University of Nigeria, marking a momentous occasion that underscores the synergy between philanthropy, governance, and educational advancement.
Arc. Dipo Ajayi, whose lifelong commitment to community upliftment has long been evident, personally facilitated the establishment of the centre, driven by a profound passion for education as the bedrock of societal progress. In his words, “This project embodies my unwavering belief that education forms the strongest foundation for a thriving society. My vision is to transform Ilupeju into a beacon of learning and innovation, where barriers to knowledge are dismantled, and residents can learn, innovate, and prosper without hindrance.” He emphasised that the donation stems from a deep-seated desire to spur academic and economic vitality in the town, inspiring a new generation dedicated to knowledge, service, and self-reliance.
Local residents have voiced heartfelt gratitude for Arc. Ajayi’s generosity, describing the initiative as a enduring legacy that will redefine educational opportunities and technological access in Ilupeju-Ekiti. Beyond immediate benefits for learners and professionals from across the state, the centre is expected to stimulate broader local development, drawing in talent and resources while setting a fresh standard for impactful philanthropy in Nigeria. As the big day approaches, Ilupeju-Ekiti stands on the cusp of a brighter future, a testament to the power of visionary giving in building resilient communities.
𝑭𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝑬𝑲𝑰𝑻𝑰𝑵𝑬𝑾𝑺 247 𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒔𝒂𝒑𝒑 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒍 : https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAP3AqHLHQdNZ6UeL10
A Cry for Help: The State of Secondary School Libraries in Ilupeju
It is heartbreaking to see the current condition of libraries in most of our secondary schools across Ilupeju. These libraries, which should be centers of learning, discovery, and inspiration, have sadly become shadows of what they are meant to be. Many of them are under-equipped, outdated, or even completely abandoned. Books are torn, shelves are empty, and some libraries have been turned into storage rooms rather than places of study.
In an era where education is key to progress, our students are being deprived of one of the most essential tools for learning — access to a functional and resourceful library. Without proper books, reading materials, or a comfortable study environment, how can we expect our young minds to compete favorably with their peers elsewhere?
We are calling on all well-wishers of Ilupeju — community leaders, old students, parents, corporate bodies, and the government — to rise and take action. Let us join hands to revive our school libraries, restock them with relevant books, provide proper furniture, and create an environment that encourages reading and learning.
Education is the foundation of development, and a library is the heart of education. Let us not allow the heart of our schools to die.
Together, we can make Ilupeju’s secondary school libraries vibrant again.