Aiyedatiwa Calls for Technology-Driven Leadership at FUTA Foundation Day Lecture

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called for leadership models anchored on innovation, adaptability and technological competence, stating that effective leadership remains central to shaping national and institutional futures.

He made the remarks on Thursday, April 16, 2026, while delivering the Foundation Day Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), titled “Leadership and Organisational Performance: Technology as a Driver.”

Aiyedatiwa said leadership must evolve in response to rapid technological disruption, stressing that universities should serve as convergence points for innovation, leadership development and technological advancement. He noted that while leadership can be studied academically, its effectiveness is ultimately determined by experience, adaptability and sound judgement.

He emphasized that technology should not replace leadership but enhance it, describing it as a key enabler of organisational efficiency, communication and decision-making. According to him, institutions and nations succeed or fail largely based on the quality of leadership guiding their processes.

The governor further stated that leaders must be technologically literate to remain relevant in a rapidly changing global environment shaped by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He highlighted the role of digital systems in transforming communication and accelerating information flow, describing the world as an interconnected “global village.”

He also underscored the importance of universities of technology in national development, noting that institutions like FUTA play a critical role in producing skilled graduates capable of driving industrialisation and innovation.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, described the Foundation Day Lecture as a longstanding intellectual tradition aimed at strengthening engagement between the university and its host communities.

She said FUTA continues to maintain a tradition of inviting distinguished public figures and scholars to contribute to national discourse, while integrating teaching, research and innovation to address real-world challenges.

Prof. Oladiji also highlighted ongoing efforts by the university to improve infrastructure, student welfare and institutional partnerships, including upgrades in security, transport systems and accommodation through public-private collaborations. She acknowledged the support of the Ondo State Government in improving road networks and water supply within the institution.

She reaffirmed FUTA’s commitment to producing graduates who are innovative, resilient and globally competitive, capable of contributing meaningfully to technological and national development.