The Minister of Communication, Mr Adebayo Shittu, said a Technology and Innovation village would be established in Oyo State to make the nation a reservoir of technologists.

Shittu said this at a grand reception organised for him in Ibadan by the 1973 set of Old Students of Baptist High School (BHS), Saki.

He said the Federal Government was committed to development of the nation's youths in new technology, adding that Gov. Abiola Ajimobi had been informed of the plan in order to provide land.

“This is not the only project of the government, we will also build knowledge centres in our schools.”

On 2019 governorship race in Oyo, he said that it was only God that grants man the grace of occupying positions.

“l have served as a member of the House of Assembly, a Commissioner and now a Minister. However, becoming a governor should not be taken for granted.

“If one believes in the Almighty God, whatever he or she desires will come to pass.”

The minister said that the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo was his political mentor, adding that BHS Saki gave him the opportunity to be what he is today.

Shittu, who recalled how he started school in Ghana after he followed pupils to the Independence Day Celebration in the country, described himself as `a lucky man’ who destiny led to greatness.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Isaac Koleoso, expressed happiness that many old faces had converged to celebrate Shittu.

He said Shittu had made giant strides in politics, urging him not to relent in his commitment toward the development of Oke-Ogun, Oyo State and the nation at large.

Dr Niyi Ogundiran said BHS has produced several personalities, who had excelled in their various careers, among whom was Shittu.

He described Shittu as a man who never allowed his ambition to be washed away by any form of blackmail but gave his best in every positions he occupied and very intolerant with corruption.

“He is generous, a business innovator, publisher, prolific writer and highly principled. He trained three lawyers, who are now Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

“He is an incorruptible ambassador and lawyer of the poor masses.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Bayo Shittu.

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