The Executive Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has lauded the enduring legacy of two distinguished Nigerian engineers during the inauguration of a ₦150 million memorial endowment aimed at advancing engineering education and innovation.
The event, held at the prestigious Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, marked the formal presentation of the MicCom Memorial Endowment for Engineering Development. The initiative was established by the Ponle family in honour of the late Engr. Michael Ayantunde Ponnle and Engr. (Mrs) Comfort Olufunke Ponnle.
In his address, Governor Adeleke described the late couple as visionary pioneers whose contributions to Nigeria’s engineering and industrial sectors remain indelible. He noted that their lives exemplified courage, innovation, and a deep commitment to national development.
“They were not merely accomplished professionals but pioneers who believed in Nigeria’s capacity to build, innovate, and lead,” the governor said, highlighting their role in advancing indigenous manufacturing through MicCom Cables and Wires.
Adeleke emphasized that the couple’s success was rooted in partnership, noting how their complementary strengths helped build a formidable enterprise. While Engr. Ponnle led in business development, his wife was instrumental in ensuring technical excellence and operational efficiency.
Beyond their industrial achievements, the governor underscored their impact on human capital development, stating that they mentored and inspired generations of engineers who continue to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s technological ecosystem.
The newly inaugurated ₦150 million endowment, according to Adeleke, represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future. He outlined its key objectives, including promoting academic excellence amongst engineering students, fostering research and innovation, strengthening the link between academia and industry, and instilling ethical leadership amongst future engineers.
Commending the Ponle family, Adeleke described the initiative as a demonstration of foresight and responsibility, ensuring that the legacy of the deceased lives on through continuous support for education and innovation.
“To the beneficiaries, this is more than financial support; it is a call to uphold a legacy of discipline, innovation, and service,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that support education, innovation, and public-private partnerships, stressing that collaborations like the endowment are essential for sustainable development in Osun State.
The ceremony concluded with tributes to the late engineers, whose lives, Adeleke said, remain a testament to purposeful living and lasting impact.
