OYSCATECH HONOURS SARAFA OLAONIYE FOR PHILANTHROPY, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora [OYSCATECH] on Tuesday, 28th July 2026 conferred its Award of Excellence in Philanthropy and Community Development on Hon. Sarafa Olaito Olaoniye.

The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the institution’s 4th Biennial Conference held at the College campus in Igboora. The theme of the conference was _”Integrating Science, Technology and Management for Resilient and Sustainable Modern Agricultural Practice.”_

The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. (Mrs.) Adebanke Oyelakin, said the award was instituted to recognize personalities of proven character, diligence and commitment to societal development. She congratulated the recipients and charged them to remain dedicated to humanitarian service.

Hon. Olaoniye, a leading grassroots mobiliser and APC Flagbearer for Ibarapa Central/Ibarapa North Federal Constituency for the 2027 election, was represented by Mr. Femi Fatunbi.

Speaking on his behalf, Mr. Fatunbi announced a donation of ₦500,000 to support the College’s programmes in agricultural research, innovation and youth empowerment. He described the award as a call to greater service, noting that Hon. Olaoniye remains committed to people-oriented leadership and sustainable development through education and agriculture.

The College, in its citation, recognized Hon. Olaoniye for his outstanding contributions to community development, philanthropy and the promotion of science and technology-driven agriculture in Ibarapa land and Oyo State.

PROFILE OF HON. SARAFA OLAITO OLAONIYE

Hon. Sarafa Olaito Olaoniye is a visionary leader, educationist, businessman and committed public servant known for service, integrity and love for his people.

He began his education at Igboora High School and obtained a degree in Insurance from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He later earned a Master’s degree in Managerial Psychology from the University of Ibadan. He also served as a Lecturer at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Adeseun Ogundoyin Campus, Eruwa, where he mentored many young people.

In public service, he served with distinction as Vice Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government and later as Caretaker Chairman of the same council. His administration was noted for purposeful leadership, accountability and people-centered projects that directly impacted lives.

As a businessman and philanthropist, Hon. Olaoniye has for decades empowered youths and women, sponsored education, and supported vulnerable members of the community. He is widely celebrated as a bridge-builder and a true son of Ibarapa land.

Today, he stands as the All Progressives Congress [APC] Flagbearer for Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The OYSCATECH honour adds to his growing recognition as a leader committed to grassroots development, education and agricultural advancement in Oyo State.