President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of the former governor of old Oyo State, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.
Tinubu, in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, extended his sympathies to the Olunloyo family and all who knew and respected the late elder statesman and scholar.
The former governor reportedly died a few days before his 90th birthday.
Dr. Olunloyo, renowned for his mathematical prowess, obtained a PhD in applied mathematics and number theory from St. Andrews University in Scotland at 25.
In 1962, at just 27, he became a commissioner in the old Western Region. He served multiple times as commissioner in the Western State, which succeeded the Western Region.
His leadership as the founding rector of The Polytechnic Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic established enduring academic and administrative foundations in the two institutions.
President Tinubu paid tribute to Dr Olunloyo’s remarkable academic and professional journey and his fervent belief in education as a transformative tool for national development.
“Dr. Olunloyo will be celebrated in academic circles for his brilliance and foundational contributions to applied mathematics and number theory. As an educator, he profoundly influenced future leaders and fortified educational institutions,” President Tinubu stated.
Reflecting on Dr. Olunloyo’s tenure as governor of the old Oyo State, President Tinubu remarks: “Although his time in office was brief, his tenure was marked by exceptional vision and leadership. The abrupt end to his administration due to military intervention did not deter him from continuing to serve the nation.”
President Tinubu further applauded the late governor for his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity, progress, and intellectual advancement, emphasising that his contributions will remain enduring milestones in the nation’s history.
“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and bring solace to all who mourn this distinguished statesman, “the President concluded.
