Chairman of the Board of Directors, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, Dr. Seinde Oladapo Fadeni, has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to education and societal progress by generously donating a state-of-the-art library block to Joseph Ayo Babalola University in Ikeji – Arakeji, Osun State.
The impressive three-storey structure, hailed as the largest on campus, stands as a beacon of academic excellence, catering to the diverse library needs of all departments within the university.
During the official handover ceremony, Dr. Fadeni emphasized the critical importance of providing students with conducive learning environments, especially in today’s era marked by myriad distractions.
He lamented the diminishing interest in reading among students, attributing it to the pervasive influence of social media and digital technologies.
“The students don’t want to read anymore; and you can’t really blame them. In someone’s phone alone, you can find about ten social media apps. The world is becoming something else. But those who are ready to read, who are ready to study and to focus, we should assist them in achieving what they want to achieve.”
However, he underscored the obligation to support and empower those students who remain dedicated to their academic pursuits.
In his pledge to the university community, Dr. Fadeni vowed not only to furnish the library with modern amenities but also to ensure its functionality as a cutting-edge learning hub for students at every academic level, from undergraduates to doctoral candidates.
Addressing the distinguished guests, including the leadership of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria & Overseas, Dr. Fadeni reaffirmed his commitment to go above and beyond mere philanthropy.
“The physical body is there. I have given you my word; by the grace of God, whatever is supposed to be in a modern library, the computers, the shelves, and other things would be provided.”
He pledged to equip the library with essential resources such as computers, shelves, and other necessary facilities, all aimed at enriching the academic experience of the university’s students.
The Vice Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Prof. Olasebikan Alade Fakolujo, lauded Dr. Fadeni’s altruism and highlighted the transformative impact of the newly established library.
“Today, we have this magnificent edifice, which stands out of all the structures on campus and compares favourably with some of the best library building in the first – generation universities in Nigeria, as fulfilment of the promise made by the donor. The Dr Seinde Oladapo Fadeni Library is a multi-million naira three-storey building which at this particular time is praiseworthy. The gesture is dear to us as a university community.”
He emphasized that the generous donation not only addresses a pressing need for modern library facilities but also aligns with the broader goal of enhancing Nigeria’s university education system.
