By Omowunmi Sanni

For their dedication, professionalism and outstanding service delivery, the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) recently rewarded 157 staff members with a total sum of N11.85 million.

The occasion was the second edition of the institution’s yearly Distinguished Service Lecture and Awards, initiated as a platform to recognise staff contributions, promote institutional values, and stimulate discourse on public service excellence.

Two staff members, one from teaching and one from non-teaching, were selected as the best overall staff and received N1 million each. Ten other staff members were recognised in their respective schools and units, with each receiving N250,000. An additional 147 staff members drawn from academic departments and service units were awarded N50,000 each.

Addressing the gathering, the Rector, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, said the financial reward was designed to appreciate committed staff and motivate the workforce to do more.

Beyond staff recognition, the ceremony also featured the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to three Nigerians for their enduring contributions to education, governance, leadership and national development.

The recipients were the Chairman of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Tajudeen Olusi, the pioneer Rector of the college, Mr Majekodunmi Okufi, and retired Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Ishola Olorunnimbe.

Abdul stated that the award was in recognition of their exemplary leadership, which has left indelible footprints in their respective spheres of influence.

“By celebrating these distinguished personalities, we are not only recognising their remarkable efforts, but also setting a high standard for others to emulate,” the rector stated.

He added that the award reinforces the institution’s belief that true leadership is measured by service, vision, and the positive transformation of society.

In separate remarks, the awardees urged the institution to sustain the tradition to encourage greater devotion to service.

On his part, the Governing Council chairman, Prof. Funso Afolabi, said reforms in institutions have become expedient due to rapid socio-economic transformation and rising public expectations.

Afolabi, represented by a member of the council, Ebenezer Akinbolade, stressed the need to sustain a culture of excellence within the public service.