From foundation to growth: MURIC salutes Abdul-Hameed’s achievements at Federal Poly Ayede

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Oyo State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) hasl commended Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed for what it described as transformative leadership that laid a solid foundation for the growth of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede during his tenure as the institution’s pioneer Rector.

In a statement issued on Friday by the group’s General State Secretary, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, MURIC explored the opportunity to celebrated the outgoing Rector on several national recognitions, including the Face of Living Hero of Academic World Award 2025, Best Rector of the Year 2025, and the Fiscal Discipline and Ethics Compliance Award conferred by the Centre for Ethics and Self Value Orientation.

According to MIRIC, Abdul-Hameed assumed office about five years ago when the polytechnic was still in its formative stage with limited infrastructure and administrative structures. However, through what it described as visionary leadership and dedication, the Rector laid a strong foundation that transformed the institution into a fast-growing centre of academic activity.

MURIC noted that despite the challenges typically associated with establishing a new tertiary institution, Abdul-Hameed mobilised experienced professionals and deployed his administrative expertise to build critical academic and operational structures.

Within the five-year period, the institution introduced about fourteen academic programmes while recording notable progress in infrastructure development, including substantial work on the permanent site of the polytechnic.

The organisation further observed that the outgoing rector established durable administrative frameworks capable of sustaining the institution’s growth beyond his tenure.

“MURIC recognises that pioneering leadership carries a unique responsibility because it sets the direction for future administrations. Engr. Dr. Taofeek Abdul-Hameed has demonstrated that responsibility with distinction and has set a benchmark for pioneer Rectors of federal polytechnics in Nigeria,” the statement said.

The group also commended Abdul-Hameed for promoting staff welfare and institutional harmony, particularly through the creation of staff unions to protect workers’ interests and foster a stable working environment.

In addition, the religious right group highlighted his commitment to staff development, noting that several members of staff benefitted from local and international training programmes designed to enhance professional competence and institutional productivity.

The statement equally acknowledged the supportive role of the institution’s Bursar, Alhaja Rashidah Oladepo, whose cooperation and dedication, it said, contributed significantly to financial discipline and administrative stability within the Polytechnic.

MURIC also praised Abdul-Hameed’s efforts in strengthening relationships between the institution and its host communities, noting that his administration prioritised engagement with local stakeholders to promote mutual understanding and development.

Particularly highlighted was the impact of the Polytechnic’s Entrepreneurship Development Centre, which has helped empower youths with practical skills while deepening community relations.

“As he bows out of office with honour and distinction, we pray that Almighty Allah rewards his dedication, grants him greater opportunities for service, and makes his future endeavours even more impactful,” Muric concluded.