Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, has received a newly completed bakery building as a donation from businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Lamidi Monsur Ayoade, popularly known as Alhaji Ejide. The project, unveiled in a ceremony attended by distinguished guests, was described as a move to boost community development and support the university’s growth.
In his remarks, Alhaji Ejide expressed gratitude to God for enabling him to contribute to LAUTECH’s advancement, noting his long-standing friendship with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu. He commended the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to progress at the institution, saying, “I am overwhelmed and grateful to God for the privilege to assist in this noble cause.”
The donor attributed his philanthropic efforts to his success in the semovita business, a venture that earned him the title of “King of Semo” in Nigeria. He said the donation was part of his resolve to give back to society, adding that he had earlier supported the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede.
Alhaji Ejide also announced plans to renovate the university’s Department of Psychology within the next two weeks as part of his ongoing contributions to LAUTECH. He appreciated friends and dignitaries in attendance, including the university Registrar, Mrs. Olayinka Olanike Balogun, and the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Dr. Imam Yunus Onishina Telilat Ayilara.
Responding, Professor Kalilu thanked Alhaji Ejide for his generosity and longstanding friendship, assuring that the bakery would soon commence operations. He also revealed plans to establish a water production facility near the bakery to help address water supply challenges within the university.
Mrs. Balogun praised Alhaji Ejide’s enduring support for the university and the community, while Dr. Imam Ayilara lauded his commitment to social development. The Chief Imam formally handed over the keys of the new bakery to the Vice-Chancellor, marking the official transfer of the facility to the university.
The donation, university officials said, reflects Alhaji Ejide’s deep commitment to educational and community development in Ogbomoso.
