Ogun State, the gateway to Nigeria’s southwestern prosperity, is home to Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), a beacon of technical education and a lasting symbol of its founders’ vision.
As Ogun State marks its golden jubilee at 50, MAPOLY proudly celebrates 47 years of impactful service, reflecting a journey that has transformed lives and contributed significantly to state and national development.
MAPOLY traces its roots to 1976, following the creation of Ogun State from the former Western State. The Military Administrator, Lt. Col. Saidu Ayodele Balogun, identified the urgent need for an institution dedicated to advanced technical education to produce middle-level manpower essential for the new state’s growth. This vision was nurtured by successive administrations and formally realized in 1979 under Brigadier Harris O. Eghagha with the establishment of Ogun State Polytechnic.
Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, the first civilian governor, strengthened this foundation by embedding MAPOLY within his free-education policy, making the institution a pillar of accessible higher learning and a cornerstone of Ogun State’s developmental agenda.
Established to supply skilled manpower for both the state and the nation, MAPOLY began with 220 students across five departments. Temporary campuses at Onikolobo and Oke-Egunya laid the groundwork for growth, culminating in the permanent Ojere campus in 1985.
Renamed Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in 1998 in honour of its foremost benefactor, Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the institution has expanded from five to 29 departments and now admits about 10,000 students annually. Its motto, “Technology for Development,” continues to guide its vision, mission, and values.
MAPOLY graduates have distinguished themselves across technology, humanities, governance, media, finance, and industry. The institution consistently produces Chartered Accountants, seasoned professionals, and market-ready graduates who validate the foresight of its founders.
Its alumni include former governors, legislators, commissioners, industry leaders, and traditional rulers such as Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Evangelist Tope Ademiluyi; Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, former Accountant-General of the Federation; Right Honourable Oludaisi Elemide of the Ogun State House of Assembly and HRM Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, the Olota of Ota.
MAPOLY’s impact is particularly visible in Nigeria’s media landscape, where its Mass Communication graduates dominate print, broadcast, and digital platforms. A major driver of this success is MAPOLY Radio (99.7 FM), a fully licensed campus station that provides students with practical, industry-relevant training.
Leadership continuity has been central to the institution’s success, from pioneer Rector Dr. Tunji Sonola to the incumbent Rector, Arc. Dr. Babatunde Adekoyejo Jolaoso, the first alumnus to lead the institution.
His appointment symbolizes MAPOLY’s self-sustaining legacy. This journey has been supported by successive Deputy Rectors, Registrars, Librarians, Bursars, Governing Councils, and the current council chaired by Emeritus Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun.
Benefactors such as Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Engr. Joseph Adenle, Chief Kensington Adebutu, Dr. Wale Babalakin SAN, Commodore Rasheed Raji, and others have strengthened MAPOLY’s infrastructure.
Despite funding challenges, the institution has thrived largely through self-funding, complemented by TETFund interventions.
MAPOLY’s commitment to innovation is evident in the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, established in 2008, which equips students with job-creation skills.
With over 100 PhD holders among its staff, the institution continues to produce highly sought-after graduates.
In June 2025, MAPOLY held its landmark 15th Combined Convocation Ceremony, graduating over 51,000 students across multiple academic sessions. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s #2.5 million awards to best graduating students and a #2 billion intervention fund reaffirmed government support for excellence. The subsequent disbursement of the awards to the students further underscored compassion and commitment to education.
MAPOLY’s alumni achievements continue to earn national recognition, including awards at the Nigerian Media Merit Awards and Diamond Awards for Media Excellence. Institutional initiatives such as the Security Trust Fund, Sports Festival Committee, and student-led entrepreneurial projects further reflect a holistic approach to education.
From its modest beginnings in Abeokuta, MAPOLY has evolved into a critical force in national development and global relevance.
As Ogun State celebrates 50 years and MAPOLY marks 47, the institution stands as a living testament to fulfilled vision, sustained impact, and an enduring legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
Yemi Ajibola
Head, Public Relations & Protocol
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