Ilorin: The Old Students Association of Federal Government College, Ilorin, held a Valedictory Assembly on Monday to honor the late pioneer principal of the school, Chief Amos Olaniyan. The assembly took place at the school auditorium where tributes were paid to the influential educator.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Geoffrey Agbo, the current principal, highlighted Olaniyan's significant contributions to the college. He emphasized that Olaniyan's solid foundation had a lasting impact, producing many notable individuals in the country. Agbo stated, "Here, we are celebrating a special leader who under him the school thrived because he was an excellent and exquisite leader."
Mr. Opeyemi Dele, Chairman of the Ilorin chapter of the old students association, also commended Olaniyan for instilling discipline in students. Dele noted that although many did not directly experience Olaniyan's leadership, the principles he set served as the school's foundation. He remarked, "He isn't just a legend or an icon for FGC, but for Nigeria as a whole because he was appointed as a member of UNESCO at a particular time."
Dr. Tosin Elemide, the second child of the deceased, expressed the family's gratitude for the assembly. She indicated that the event demonstrated the school's appreciation for Olaniyan's sacrifices. Reflecting on her father's legacy, she stated, "He was a father to all and it is obvious in the way everyone here talked about him."
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Olaniyan was born on May 17, 1935, and passed away on August 30 at the age of 94. The college, established in 1973, had Olaniyan as its inaugural principal, marking the beginning of its journey in education.