Adeleke Commends N150m Support from MicCom Family to OAU

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Adeleke Commends N150m Support from MicCom Family to OAU

By Waliu Adetokun,Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State on Thursday praised the Ponle family for establishing a N150 million memorial endowment aimed at advancing engineering education and innovation in Nigeria.

The endowment, named the MicCom Memorial Endowment for Engineering Development, was unveiled at Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in honour of late Engr. Michael Ayantunde Ponnle and his wife, Engr. (Mrs) Comfort Olufunke Ponnle.

Addressing guests at the ceremony, Adeleke said the initiative goes beyond remembrance, describing it as a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

“We are remembering two exceptional lives while celebrating a legacy that continues to build, to teach and to inspire,” the governor said.

He noted that the late engineers made significant contributions to Nigeria’s industrial growth through their MicCom Cables and Wires enterprise, at a time when indigenous manufacturing was still developing.

“They were not merely accomplished professionals but pioneers who believed in Nigeria’s capacity to build, innovate and lead,” he added.

Adeleke also highlighted their role in mentoring young engineers and technicians, stressing that their impact extended far beyond their immediate achievements.

“Many who passed through their influence have gone on to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial and technological ecosystem,” he said.

Describing the endowment as strategic, the governor said it would support outstanding engineering students, promote research and innovation, and strengthen collaboration between academia and industry.

“This endowment is not merely symbolic but strategic.

It promotes academic excellence, strengthens research and innovation, bridges the gap between theory and practice, and instils leadership and ethical responsibility,” he stated.

He commended the Ponle family for what he described as a thoughtful and forward looking initiative.

“This reflects not only love and remembrance but also responsibility and foresight. By investing in education, you have ensured that their legacy will remain a living force,” Adeleke said.

The governor urged prospective beneficiaries to see the opportunity as both a privilege and a responsibility.

“You are not just receiving support; you are inheriting a legacy of discipline, innovation and service. You must carry it with a sense of purpose,” he said.

Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening education and encouraging partnerships that drive development in the state.

The event was attended by academics, industry stakeholders, students and other dignitaries, who gathered to honour the late engineers and witness the launch of the endowment.