By Law Ibitoye
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), management on Saturday, 25th October 2025, commissioned a Special Study Centre in Ilupeju-Ekiti, Ifeloju local Council Development Area of Ekiti State, marking a significant milestone in the region’s quest for improved access to tertiary education.
The model facility — a fully established study centre — was facilitated, constructed, furnished, and donated to the institution by the Asiwaju of Ilupeju-Ekiti and President of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Architect Sir Dipo Ajayi, as part of his commitment to educational development and community advancement.
Strategically located near AUD Primary School, Ilupeju-Ekiti, the ultra-modern centre comprises:
A state-of-the-art administrative building
A well-equipped ICT center with 50 computers and free Wi-Fi internet access
A standard multipurpose hall with modern amenities
Well-secured and serene surroundings conducive for academic activities
Commissioning the centre, the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Sehu Adamu, lauded the donor for his exceptional patriotism, noting that his gesture will boost learning opportunities for residents and neighbouring communities.
Prof. Adamu described Sir Dipo as “a blessing to humanity,” acknowledging his continuous investments in the educational and social upliftment of the masses. He urged the Ilupeju community to take full ownership of the facility by enrolling their youths, ensuring the security of staff and property, and partnering with the university for smooth operations.
“This special study centre is a stepping stone to academic advancement, job creation and socio-economic upliftment. Sir Dipo has done exceedingly well for bringing NOUN to Ilupeju-Ekiti,” he stated.
Responding, the donor — Architect Sir Dipo Ajayi — expressed gratitude to God and members of the community who supported the initiative. He explained that the idea was conceived in May 2025 to support the giant strides of the Ekiti state Governor on Education which he said has become a reality through divine assistance and teamwork.
“Education remains the bedrock of development. My desire is to work with like minds to bring more progress to Ilupeju-Ekiti. What God cannot do does not exist,” he said.
He encouraged more illustrious sons and daughters of the town to contribute towards further development and visibility of the centre.
The Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, HRM Oba David Sunday Awe Akingbade, could not hide his excitement, noting that the project has put the community on a global educational map. He prayed for continued blessings upon the donor, adding that the centre will foster enlightenment, employment, and economic growth within the town.
The Chairman of Ifeloju Local Council Development Area, Hon. Olusola Michael Oniyelu, and the President, Ilupeju Youth Development Association, Engr. Femi Fagbemi, commended Sir Ajayi’s foresight, saying the project will inspire youths to pursue higher learning and self-development.
They appealed to residents and Nigerians within and outside Ekiti State to enrol at the centre, emphasizing that NOUN is a Federal Government institution with flexible learning offerings.
The commissioning attracted dignitaries including: A high-powered delegation from NOUN Headquarters, Abuja. Vice Chancellor, Ekiti State University, Prof. Joseph Babatola. Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Environmental Studies & Technology, Iyin-Ekiti, Prof. AribisalaCMD, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Olabanji, The Obanla of Ilupeju-Ekiti, HRH Sunday Ogunsola, members of Apeju in Council, IDA National President, Chief Banji Ogungbemi and Executives, Former IDA President, Dr. Femi Babalola Engr. Tola Gbuyiro, Ilupeju Youth president, Engineer Femi Fagbemi, Chairman Ifeloju LCDA, Ilupeju Ekiti, Hon Olusola Michael Oniyelu, Chairman, P.R.O Communications, Alhaji Olayemi Amusa Rasaq, Bishop Felix Ajakaye (Catholic Diocese of Ekiti), Chief Imam of Ilupeju-Ekiti. Ekiti State Coordinator for RAAMP, Hon. Sunday Adunmo, among several others
The ceremony featured cultural excitement with a thrilling performance by Agada Musical Troupe, adding colour to the historic event.
The Ilupeju Special Study Centre has now positioned the community as an emerging hub for distance learning in Ekiti State, opening doors of opportunity to thousands of current and prospective learners.
