Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerian universities to rethink their core mandate, urging them to move beyond issuing certificates and instead nurture leaders equipped to thrive in an increasingly complex global environment.
Speaking yesterday at the Foundation Day Lecture of Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), the Governor stressed that Nigeria’s future, both economically and technologically, depends heavily on the strength of its leadership and the quality of its education system.
Delivering a lecture titled “Leadership, Organisational Performance and Technology in a Rapidly Changing World,” Aiyedatiwa said universities must position themselves as hubs of innovation and drivers of human capital development if the country is to remain competitive.
Aiyedatiwa challenged traditional ideas of leadership, noting that it is no longer about authority or control, but about influence, engagement, and adaptability.
“Leadership is fundamentally about influence rather than coercion,” he said, explaining that effective leadership evolves through continuous interaction between leaders and those they lead.
He traced the shift from early theories that framed leadership as an inborn trait to modern thinking, which recognises it as a skill that can be developed.
According to him, strong leadership rests on a combination of technical expertise, interpersonal ability, and strategic thinking—qualities that can be cultivated through education and experience.
Turning to the impact of technology, the governor noted that digital innovation has transformed the world into a tightly connected space where information flows instantly.
However, he warned against over-reliance on technology as a solution to institutional challenges.
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“Technology alone does not guarantee organisational success; it must be deliberately aligned with leadership strategy,” he cautioned.
While acknowledging the growing influence of artificial intelligence and data-driven systems, Aiyedatiwa maintained that leadership remains inherently human.
He emphasised that qualities such as judgment, emotional intelligence, and wisdom cannot be replaced by machines, even in an era of rapid technological advancement.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing tertiary education in the state.
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He highlighted ongoing support for institutions including Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Adekunle Ajasin University, and University of Medical Sciences, as well as plans to upgrade Rufus Giwa University of Agriculture.
In her welcome remarks, FUTA Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, reinforced the Governor’s position, describing universities as critical spaces where research, innovation, and practical knowledge must intersect to address real-world challenges.
She commended the state government for its support, citing key interventions such as the conversion of the State Specialist Hospital into a teaching hospital for FUTA, alongside improvements in campus water supply and road infrastructure.
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The event attracted top government officials and stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; and the state APC Chairman, Hon Kolawole Babatunde.
Lawmakers, traditional rulers, and members of the state executive council were also in attendance.
In closing, Aiyedatiwa encouraged students to place equal importance on developing leadership skills alongside their academic pursuits.
“The true test of leadership,” he said, “lies not just in present achievements, but in the future we empower others to build.”
