Ondo Governor Vows to Implement Reforms as UNIMED Visitation Panel Submits Report

Akure, Ondo State – Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has received the report from the Visitation Panel tasked with reviewing the operations of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, pledging to implement key reforms identified within the document. The Governor lauded the panel’s work as a crucial step towards fostering institutional development and achieving excellence at the specialized university.

During a courtesy visit to his office in Akure on Monday, where the panel members formally presented their two-volume report, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his deep appreciation for their thoroughness and impartial approach. While acknowledging that he was yet to fully examine the extensive report, he noted its apparent depth and scope.

Governor Aiyedatiwa specifically commended the panel’s decision to concentrate on institutional roles and structures rather than individual performances. He emphasized that this approach is fundamental for ensuring the long-term growth and stability of the university.

“What makes me particularly pleased is the fact that you focused not on individuals, but on the positions they occupy. That is how institutions are built and sustained,” the Governor stated. He further stressed the importance of establishing robust structures and procedures to guide anyone who assumes leadership responsibilities within the university.

Reassuring the panel of the government’s commitment, Governor Aiyedatiwa affirmed that the report would undergo a critical review followed by decisive action. “Your labor and sacrifices will yield visible results. The real reward is in seeing your recommendations drive real change in our university system,” he said.

The Governor underscored the overarching goal of the panel’s efforts, which is to elevate UNIMED to the status of a world-class institution. “The whole idea is to build a better university; one that can compete globally, provide a top-tier learning environment, and become a model of excellence among specialized institutions,” he asserted.

Governor Aiyedatiwa guaranteed that his administration would prioritize the implementation of actionable recommendations contained in the report, reiterating his dedication to transforming education in Ondo State through well-considered and informed interventions.

Earlier, Professor Victor Olumekun, the chairman of the Visitation Panel, stated that the team had dedicated eight weeks to conducting a comprehensive review of UNIMED’s operations. He explained that their work encompassed the initial terms of reference as well as other critical aspects relevant to the institution’s future development.

“Our focus was on processes and systems. We made a deliberate effort not to judge personalities, but rather to assess the positions and roles they occupy. We believe that whoever occupies any position must be guided by structure, accountability, and performance standards,” Professor Olumekun explained.

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Professor Olumekun also advocated for the introduction of annual performance reviews within the university system to foster continuous improvement, rather than limiting assessments to the end of an individual’s tenure. He suggested that such regular evaluations would enhance accountability and ensure that administrators remain focused on achieving institutional objectives throughout their terms.

Present at the report submission were Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, and the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip.