Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has called on Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) to take a leading role in developing homegrown technologies to drive Nigeria’s industrial transformation. He made this call while delivering the 36th Convocation Lecture of the institution, titled ‘Developing Exportable Alternatives for Nigeria’s Economic Recovery,’ on Tuesday.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of processing and value addition in the country’s economic development, stating, “The machines and technologies that can make this happen should come from institutions like Yabatech.” He cited key sectors, including agriculture, energy, and technology, urging the college to develop innovations that would turn Nigeria’s natural resources—such as cocoa, lithium, and solar energy—into high-value products for local consumption and export.

“The technologies that will transform our limited-value cocoa beans into limitless-value chocolate, our lithium reserves into high-tech batteries, and our solar and wind energy potential into abundant electricity—these should come from Yabatech,” he asserted.

In addressing the 2024 graduating class, the governor inspired the students to embrace innovation and overcome challenges. He reminded them that the journey ahead may not always be easy, but it is those who tackle challenges head-on who will succeed. “The future of Nigeria depends on your courage to innovate,” he told them.

The event also saw the participation of Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Economic Adviser Dr. Tope Fasua, who echoed Sanwo-Olu’s call for local economic development. Fasua stressed the need to add value to Nigeria’s primary products and retain the wealth within the country rather than exporting raw materials. He urged Yabatech to assist in safeguarding Nigeria’s economy through technological advancement.

In his address, Yabatech Rector Dr. Abdul Adedotun shared the challenges the college faces, including rebuilding the Bakassi Hostel and improving staff welfare. He called for government support to help address these issues, which he said are crucial for the continued growth of the institution.

The Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Funso Afolabi, also acknowledged the remarkable achievements of the graduating students and thanked their families and sponsors for their support.