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A leader with a Midas touch


Some people come into your life and leave an indelible mark. They have what is called the Midas touch. Some are friends, some are family, and some are teachers.

Such is Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran of Lautech. My first encounter with him was in 1993 during my third year at uni (LAUTECH). He thought Metallurgical and Material Engineering. He was so good at teaching the course that he made me fall in love with Metallurgical Engineering....Till today he calls me by my Matriculation number, 260, everywhere he sees me. Don't ask me why....He makes you feel special and seen by amplifying your virtues. He looks out for you. He is one of the reasons I am here today.

I was hired at Lautech in 1998 immediately after my national youth service as a junior faculty. I quickly completed a master degree at Uni of Ibadan and was looking for Ph.D. opportunities abroad. When I finally landed one, I needed a letter of support from Lautech for my visa application. It must be signed by the Vice Chancellor (VC) who was then Prof. Salau of blessed memory. All hope of getting the VC to sign my letter was almost lost, while my interview at the Canadian Deputy High Commission was the next day. I remember him taking me to meet the VC around 6 PM in the middle of a major meeting to get him to sign my letter using his goodwill. The rest is history. I got the visa and left to study at one of the best schools in the world.

Prof. Ojediran is kind and generous with the gifts God has given him. His oratory and diplomacy ability are unmatched. They were on display many times when he led crisis resolutions, especially with agitating students and staff.

As you turn 70 and retire from the profession I know you love, may God bless you and give you rest for the rest of your days, sir. Thank you.

Akinbode Adedeji - 260...

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