The Ogun State Government has firmly dismissed widespread rumors suggesting that the Tai Solarin University of Education, TASUED, would undergo a change of name. In a public statement issued on Thursday, the government reassured citizens, stakeholders, and the university community that there are no plans whatsoever to rename the institution.
This clarification came amidst growing speculation both online and in some quarters of the media, where it was alleged that the government was considering renaming the university as part of a broader restructuring of the state’s educational institutions. The reports had sparked concern among alumni, students, faculty members, and civil society groups, many of whom viewed any change as a potential erasure of the legacy of Dr. Tai Solarin, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated educationists and human rights activists.
Speaking to reporters in Abeokuta, the Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, stated unequivocally that the name of the university remains unchanged and that the administration remains proud of the institution’s founding philosophy and historical significance.
“Tai Solarin was a visionary and a fearless advocate for education and social justice. His legacy is one that Ogun State and indeed Nigeria as a whole must continue to celebrate. The government has no intention of changing the name of Tai Solarin University of Education. It stands as a living monument to his ideals and his life’s work,” Professor Arigbabu stated.
Founded in 2005 during the administration of former Governor Gbenga Daniel, TASUED was the first university of education in Nigeria and has since carved a niche for itself as a center of academic excellence in the training of teachers and education professionals. The university was named in honor of Dr. Tai Solarin, who during his lifetime championed educational access, civic responsibility, and freedom of expression.
The university has produced thousands of graduates who have gone on to contribute significantly to the education sector across Nigeria and beyond. Over the years, TASUED has become a symbol of progressive education and a source of pride for the people of Ogun State.
The commissioner further urged the public to disregard any reports or social media narratives suggesting a name change, describing them as false and misleading. He noted that such speculation was capable of distracting from the university’s ongoing academic pursuits and development goals.
“The public is advised to treat such unfounded claims as baseless. We are more focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing academic quality, and strengthening institutional partnerships that will position TASUED as a world-class university of education,” he added.
Reactions from the university community have largely been positive following the clarification. Dr. Olufunke Adegbile, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Education, welcomed the government’s statement, describing it as timely and reassuring.
“Tai Solarin is not just a name, it is a philosophy. Keeping his name on the university ensures that future generations understand and appreciate his contributions to society. We are glad the government has listened to the voice of the people,” she said.
Also speaking, an alumnus of the university, Mr. Tunde Akinyemi, said the decision to retain the name is a victory for education and for the legacy of activism that Tai Solarin stood for.
With this affirmation, the Ogun State Government has put to rest all speculations surrounding TASUED’s identity, reaffirming its commitment to upholding the values of its namesake and ensuring the continued growth and prominence of the institution.
source: thenationonlineng.net
