A renowned scholar and former Dean of the School of Engineering Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Prof. Sabit Ariyo Olagoke, JP, has called on Nigerian leaders to listen to professionals who are constantly offering solutions to the problems of the country.
“Government needs to enhance professional work, most especially in the areas of ethical practices, product outcomes of research findings for patenting and due process in transactions, quality, and standards for the promotion of value chains.”
Engr. Olagoke, who is the founder of the Shafaudeen in Islam worldwide, dropped this hint while hosting the Executives of the National Forum of Heads of Federal Establishment, who paid a courtesy visit to the Wakajaye Headquarters of the religious group on Thursday, October 26, 2023.
Prof. Olagoke, while blaming our leaders for the economic downturn of the country, also advised the youths on good behaviour and hard work and encouraged the parents to pay close attention to their wards. He also attributed the economic and social problems bedevilling the nation to the nonchalant attitudes of our leaders.
Olagoke, in his lamentations for Nigeria, raised salient points. “When is Nigeria going to have sustainable development and a bequeathable legacy? Certainly, it is when the government conforms to organizational and professional ethics.”
“If we take the advice of professionals, Nigeria will be better. Our greatest problem is not listening to the professionals who are supposed to rescue the country from its current economic and social problems.
Earlier in her speech, which revealed the reason for the visit, the chairperson of NAFOHEADS, Barrister Magaji Adama Funmilayo, who heads Nigeria Posters Services (NIPOST), intimated Prof. Olagoke on their search for a credible patron, which they have found in him because of his intimidating academic career, his uprightness and ability to speak the truth at all times, and his passion and patriotism for Nigeria and humanity too.
“Sir, your selection to become our patron was based on your ability to speak out the truth to our leaders at all times. This inspired us to search for a credible leader like you, and we know we are in the right place because we have been acquainted with your track record of achievements.”
“Sir, definitely, we know that there are rots in the way the country is being run, but because we are still in service, we sincerely require a credible personality that will speak on our behalf, and we know you are up to the task.”
The secretary of NAFOHEADS, Mrs. Kehinde Adeyemi, disclosed in her remarks that Prof. Olagoke, in his capacity as a national speaker and motivator, is the right person to move them forward, while Dr. Adewuni Oladapo, the vice chairman of the forum who doubled as the chairman of the Civil Service Week planning committee, applauded the entrepreneurial spirit of Prof.Olagoke and urged him to register their students for NABTEB to gain additional certificated qualifications for future use.
“The truth has to be told about our country, and we want a turnaround for peace. You are an upright person; please continue even if you don’t have people backing you; you have divine backing, and no one can terminate your life.”
Other speakers at the event described Prof. Olagoke, who is also the Arole Ogun-Elu, Mogaji Aare Alasa Ibadan, as someone who is passionate about the future of our country.
The renowned scholar and cleric, while accepting the offer, told the group not to entertain any fear of working with him for the progress of the group. At the same time, he also donated several books he authored to the group to begin their library.
The investiture will come later in the year.