Prof. Yusuf Ali urges collaborative education funding

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Professor of Law Practice and Kuliya of Ilorin Emirate, Mallam Yusuf Ali SAN, has urged stakeholders to recognize that there is no substitute for education, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the sector for Nigeria’s development.
He stated that the government alone cannot adequately fund education, calling on corporate bodies, individuals, and citizens to contribute towards interventions that can shape the country’s future leaders.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and immediate past Chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State University made this remark during the inauguration of a twin lecture theatre at the Faculty of Law, Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, a private institution in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. The facility was named after him by the university’s management.
Ali expressed his delight, noting that the honor was bestowed on him not due to financial contributions but in recognition of his commitment to education and societal development.

“There is no substitute for education, and it’s easier to lead knowledgeable people than ignorant ones. When people are ignorant, they fall for lies easily, but when they are educated, it becomes difficult to mislead or exploit them. It is in the government’s best interest to prioritize and adequately fund education,” he stated.
However, Ali explained that education funding should not be left to the government alone. “Education has gone beyond government funding alone. We need interventions from corporate bodies, individuals, and citizens. It should be a collaborative effort,” he added.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of Thomas Adewumi University, Professor Francisca O. Oladipo, explained the significance of naming the lecture theatre after the legal luminary. She said it was meant to inspire students, particularly those in the Faculty of Law, to aspire to greatness.
“Each time our students walk past that road and see his name, it reminds them of his achievements. It inspires them to aim high and think beyond limits, especially the law students, who aspire to attain what he has achieved,” she said.
Professor Oladipo also highlighted the university’s innovative approach to the project, which utilized sustainable materials and local resources. “The construction was done entirely in-house using laterite blocks, similar to the mud blocks used by our forefathers. Even the metal work and roofing were done without contractors. This location was once a waste dump, and now it represents a transition from waste to wealth,” she explained.
In his address, the founder of the university, Engr. Dr. Johnson Adewumi, commended Prof. Ali’s unwavering dedication to education, justice, and youth empowerment, aligning with the university’s vision.
“We are proud of the strides Thomas Adewumi University has made in its quest for academic excellence. Today’s commissioning marks another significant chapter in that journey,” he said.