Nigeria’s journey to independence on October 1, 1960, marked a significant turning point in its educational landscape. Prior to independence, the country had only one university, the University of Ibadan, established in 1948
However, the Ashby Commission report, submitted just a month before independence, recommended a major expansion of Nigeria’s university system. The report suggested establishing new universities in each of Nigeria’s three regions – Northern, Western, and Eastern – as well as the capital city, Lagos.
The struggle to establish College of Agric in Kabba Division started in mid 1960 with the Bill to establish the University of Northern Nigeria.
The Northern Executive Council and Northern Region Legislators decided to establish five new sub-campuses across five provinces out of 13 in Northern Nigeria in addition to the existing acquired colleges. This sparked a competitive battle among provinces. H.E Chief S.A Ajayi submitted a compelling request for Kabba province to host one of the sub-campuses, emphasizing its strategic importance. However, this pitch was met with strong opposition from more populous and powerful provinces.
To strengthen his proposal, Chief Ajayi wisely identified potential locations and engaged with local leaders, considering the need for expansive space to accommodate future growth.
Chief Ajayi faced significant challenges in his quest to establish the College of Agriculture in Kabba, he also leveraged his connections, good will and influence among fellow legislators, members of the executive council and his very cordial relationship with Sir Ahmadu Bello, the influential Premier of Northern Nigeria, to boost his proposal with a vote in favor of his Bill.
This strategic move was crucial in securing support for the college.
Deploying his full arsenal, Chief S.A. Ajayi’s relentless efforts ultimately led to success when the Northern Region legislature passed the bill in June 1960, establishing the University and its sub-campuses This milestone marked the beginning of Ahmadu Bello University, which would go on to become a premier institution in Nigeria.
THE JOURNEY TO ITS UPGRADE TO FEDERAL UNIVERSITY.
The legacy of His Excellency Chief S.A. Ajayi, a trailblazing pioneer in the fight for the College of Agriculture’s establishment in Kabba, has been unjustly overlooked by Okun legislators and stakeholders. Despite building upon his foundations, they’ve failed to acknowledge his groundbreaking contributions. This glaring omission was evident during public hearings for the college’s upgrade, where politicians, traditional rulers and development associations passionately presented papers and speeches emphasizing the need for an upgrade, yet conspicuously left out Chief Ajayi’s pivotal efforts.
Recently, a former senator, expected to be well-versed in Okun people’s and Kogi West’s political and developmental history, snubbed Chief S.A. Ajayi, instead attributing the credit to Sir Ahmadu Bello. Ironically, Sir Ahmadu Bello hadn’t officially visited or established ties with Kabba province until Chief Ajayi, as a legislator and member of the influential Northern Region Executive Council, extended an invitation and hosted him on a tour of Kabba Province.
This omission is uncharacteristic of Yoruba people known for their reverence and respect for history. Unfortunately, our brand of politics often prioritizes self-promotion, diminishing the achievements of others.
College of Agriculture in Kabba was not merely a benevolent gesture from the Northern Region Government. Rather, it was a hard-won achievement, secured through unwavering dedication, unrelenting perseverance and tireless efforts of visionary leader: Chief S.A Ajayi.
Regardless, “We acknowledge the collective efforts and determination of stakeholders in advancing the College of Agriculture, Kabba towards an upgrade to a Federal University. We express gratitude for their contributions and pray for continued success. May God Almighty grant our heart’s desires. Amen.”
We urge the Federal Government and National Assembly to recognize the sacrifices of the Okun people in nation-building, particularly their role in Nigeria’s independence struggle. Upgrading the Kabba College of Agriculture to a full-fledged university would be a fitting tribute to our contributions.
– Femi Ajayi
For: S.A Ajayi Foundation.
