The Joint Action Committee (JAC), of Tertiary Institutions in Oyo State, led by its Chairman, Dr Kola Lawal, paid a condolence visit to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, at his private residence in Ibadan.
The visit was to express their heartfelt sympathy over the demise of his elder brother, Mr. Sunday Makinde.
The JAC delegation comprised union leaders from various tertiary institutions across the state, who conveyed their condolences and offered prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Sunday Makinde.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of JAC, extolled the virtues of the deceased, describing him as a man of integrity who left a positive impact on those around him.
He also prayed for strength and divine comfort for the Makinde family and the entire state during this period of mourning.
In addition to delivering the condolence message, the JAC Chairman seized the opportunity to express appreciation to governor Makinde for his unwavering commitment to the development of tertiary education in the state. He particularly commended the Governor for the recent 25 per cent increase in subvention to tertiary institutions, a move aimed at enabling them to implement the new minimum wage from January 2025.
However, he noted with concern that despite receiving the additional funds, some institutions have yet to disburse the new minimum wage payment to their staff as was done at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso and the Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo.
Responding to the delegation, Governor Makinde expressed his gratitude to the JAC leadership for their thoughtful visit and for standing with him and his family in this difficult time. He appreciated their prayers and kind words, acknowledging the role of the academic community in the progress of the state.
Addressing the concerns raised by the JAC Chairman, Governor Makinde assured them of his commitment to the continued improvement of tertiary education in Oyo State. He stated that upon resuming official duties, he would look into further ways to enhance the sector. Furthermore, he pledged to investigate the delay in the implementation of the minimum wage payment, despite the approval and release of fund for the purpose.
