NAAT Inaugurate New Executives

NAAT  Inaugurate New Executives

By Odeyemi Ibukun And Aladegbola queen

Photos By: Zannu Oyindamola 

The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) recently marked a momentous occasion as they inaugurated new executives at the esteemed Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) in Ikorodu.

 The event was held at the Faculty of Agriculture, a venue that could accommodate 500 attendees who were filled with enthusiasm and anticipation as the new leaders assumed their pivotal roles in serving the academic community.

Comrade Uthman Olayinka, the Branch Coordinator, opened the event with warm words of welcome and appreciation for the distinguished guests who graced the occasion. 

Among these luminaries were Deputy Vice Chancellor Mrs. Basirat Oladipupo, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya. Also present were Com. Okulaja, the Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at LASUSTECH, zonal coordinator Com. Moruf Balogun, the secretary, Mrs. Salvador Kuburat, and many other attendees who had gathered to witness this momentous occasion.

Uthman Olayinka also emphasized the significance of LASUSTECH hosting universities from the South West region, highlighting the institution's pivotal role in the academic landscape.

In response, Mrs. Basirat Oladipupo extended her warm welcome to everyone in attendance and expressed her profound gratitude to NAAT for organizing this event. She acknowledged the contributions of union leaders such as ASUU, LASU, and SANU, highlighting the importance of these associations in the academic ecosystem.

Furthermore, Mrs. Basirat Oladipupo stressed the critical role that NAAT plays in promoting research, innovation, and technological advancement. 

She underlined how these advancements not only benefit the economy but also enhance the social well-being of society. 

"For LASUSTECH, a renowned institution that consistently produces high-quality graduates equipped with the skills required for success in their chosen fields, the establishment of NAAT represents a pivotal opportunity to further expand the frontiers of technology, she said.

Mrs. Basirat Oladipupo expressed her belief that NAAT would facilitate valuable collaboration between students and industry experts, leading to practical solutions for the economic challenges of our time.

Furthermore, she noted that NAAT would serve as a catalyst for entrepreneurship and job creation, demonstrating its potential to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the region.

During the event, a representative from the Nigeria University Pension Management Company (NUPENCOM) also had the opportunity to speak. They emphasized the high-quality services they provide and the benefits of working in collaboration with universities. 

In their words, "We are specialized PSA for the University, and we hold periodical meetings where interaction takes place."

As the evening continued, cultural dancers took the stage, showcasing the rich heritage of the region, with performances that celebrated Eyo and honored cultural groups such as the Ijebus, Egbas, Ekos, Oyos, and Ilorins.

A significant moment during the event was the official recognition of NAAT as a union within LASUSTECH. This recognition led to the dissolution of the old executives, paving the way for fresh candidates to present their manifestos and elaborate on their intentions and plans once they assumed their respective positions within NAAT.

One of the candidates, Com. Akinwunmi Adesokan, vying for the role of Financial Secretary, promised transparency and accountability in managing the union's finances, ensuring members were well-informed about the financial records.

Com. Taiwo Fathia Gbemisola, contesting for the position of Treasurer, shared her commitment to maintaining meticulous financial records, providing annual and monthly reports, and ensuring full accountability.

Com. Olaitan Peter Adediran, who sought to become the Assistant Brand Secretary, pledged to provide unwavering support to the Brand Secretary and Chairman in an advisory role.

Com. Olatayo Agogo, a candidate for the role of Branch Secretary, shared his extensive experience as a former union secretary during his school days.

 He laid out a comprehensive five-point leadership plan, which included elements such as Efficiency and Organization, Advocacy and Support, Education and Appliance, Unity and Solidarity. He underscored the importance of collective support in elevating NAAT to greater heights.

Com. Olorunfemi Adewunmi, who vied for the position of Vice Chairman, vowed to be a reliable and supportive figure to the Chairman, complementing the leadership team.

The contestant for the role of Chairman simply promised to lead by example and serve as a source of inspiration for others.

The much-anticipated election took place, and the process was conducted meticulously by the Electoral Committee. The results were subsequently announced:

- The Financial Secretary received 35 valid votes.

- The Treasurer garnered 35 valid votes.

- The Assistant Branch Secretary secured 35 valid votes.

- The Branch Secretary was favored with 35 valid votes.

- The Vice Chairman obtained 34 valid votes and 1 invalid vote.

- The Chairman received 34 valid votes and 1 invalid vote.

Following the announcement of the election results, the new Brand Chairman received the brand certificate, and all the newly elected executives solemnly swore their oaths of allegiance and office.

In an interview with Com. Uthman Olayinka, the newly elected Chairman, he expressed his satisfaction with the event and its significance. He conveyed his optimism that they had successfully laid a foundation for a robust and effective union, and he assured all stakeholders that NAAT could anticipate a more vibrant and proactive organization in the future.

Com. Olurinde Joseph, the NAAT South West Zonal Coordinator, also shared his thoughts on the event, describing it as satisfactory. He extended his appreciation to the organizing committee for their dedicated efforts and offered valuable advice to the newly elected executives. He stressed the importance of being transparent and specific in their actions and encouraged them to keep their members well-informed and engaged in their endeavors.

Com. Olatayo Agogo, the new Branch Secretary, was unequivocal in his commitment to the union's members. He emphasized that service would be at the forefront of his role, and he vowed to protect the welfare and interests of NAAT members diligently.

Among the distinguished guests present at the event were Com. Olurinde Joseph, NAAT South West Zonal Coordinator, Com. Basirat Oladipupo, the Deputy VicVice-Chancellorpresenting the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, Com. Mrs. Omobolanle, Com. Femi Oshun, Com. Olumide Joseph representing Com. Ikoma, Com. Agnes Funmilayo, Com. Busari Ayinde, who represented the NASU chairman, Com. Odunuga Janet, Barrister Alake, Doc. Adeyeye, Mrs. Oloyinka Kolawole, and Com. Olabiran from UNIOSUN, along with Com. Okulaja.

The inauguration of the new NAAT executives at LASUSTECH was an event filled with promise, commitment, and hope for a brighter future in the field of academic technology. It represented a significant step toward fostering research, innovation, and technology development, with the potential to impact not only the academic community but also the broader society and economy.

 The elected officials, having received the trust and mandate of their peers, now bear the responsibility of translating their promises into meaningful actions for the betterment of their institution and region.