… Hails FUTA for producing globally competitive graduates

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday disclosed that future leaders must possess not only traditional leadership competencies but also the ability to navigate technological disruption, particularly in the age of artificial intelligence.

According to Aiyedatiwa, Nigeria’s future economic and technological advancement would depend largely on the quality of leadership and the strength of its educational institutions.

The governor stated this while delivering the Foundation Day lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), on the topic ‘Leadership and Organisational Performance: Technology as a Driver’.

While emphasising that technology may change the tools societies use, he stressed that leadership will always determine the direction in which societies move.

The governor maintained that while some have been wondering whether artificial intelligence will replace leaders, he emphasised that leadership still requires wisdom, judgement and emotional intelligence to properly function.

Aiyedatiwa stressed that universities must play a central role in producing a new generation of leaders capable of responding to global disruptions and emerging challenges, stating that their role goes beyond certification to shaping individuals who will influence societal direction.

The governor maintained that FUTA has over time built a reputation for producing graduates who are resilient and competitive, stating that such institutions must be focused on producing graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.

He said, “Leadership remains one of the most important determinants of organisational success. From shaping institutional vision to mobilising people and resources, effective leadership plays a decisive role in translating strategic goals into measurable outcomes.

“In the modern world, leadership must also embrace technological advancement and innovation. Institutions such as the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) occupy a strategic position in preparing the next generation of leaders who are knowledgeable, technologically capable and globally competitive.

“This is why institutions of learning are so important. They shape the leaders who will inherit the future. The responsibility of leadership therefore extends beyond managing institutions. It involves shaping the future. And the future will increasingly belong to societies that are able to cultivate leaders who understand both people and technology.”

On her part, the vice-chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, who described the institution as a dynamic academic environment matching technology with humanities to meet the needs of society, noted that technology has become central in the digital age, serving as a vital tool for leaders.

Oladiji said universities are repositories of knowledge, adding that knowledge is not generated in isolation, as engagement between scholars and practitioners strengthens intellectual growth.

She also commended the Ondo State Government’s interventions in FUTA, including the conversion of the Ondo State Specialist Hospital to a teaching hospital, water projects and road infrastructure within the campus.