Dr. Seinde Oladapo Fadeni, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, presented a multi-million naira library block to Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) in Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun state.
The three-story structure, the largest on campus, will serve the library needs of all departments inside the institution.
Speaking at the handover of the library keys to the President of CAC Nigeria & Overseas, Pastor Samuel Oladele, Fadeni stated that it is critical that pupils be supported in learning, especially given the high level of distractions in the current world.
He stated: “The students don’t want to read anymore; and you can’t really blame them. In someone’s phone alone, you can find about 10 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.”
The NAHCO Chairman vowed to make the library a conducive and modern learning environment for all levels of students, from undergraduate to doctorate.
Fadeni told the CAC leadership, which included President Oladele, Pastor E.O. Adejobi, the General Superintendent, and Prophet Hezekiah Oladeji, the General Evangelist, all of whom were present at the event, that he would still do more than just donate the facility.
He declared: “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.”
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olasebikan Alade Fakolujo, extolled the virtues of the NAHCO Chairman pointing out that such acts of kindness and generosity that Fadeni exhibited exemplify his commitment to education and societal progress.
He said: “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. 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.”
Fakolujo pointed out that there was no iota of doubt that one of the critical challenges facing Nigeria today is the lack of modern library facilities that support development and strengthen the country’s university education system.
He noted that by investing in a library for Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Dr. Fadeni is indirectly also contributing to the strengthening of not only the country’s university system, but also the very bedrock of nation building.