By Ajetunmobi Olamide
The Department of Mass Communication, The Polytechnic Ibadan, witnessed a historic moment on Friday 7th November, 2025, as the 2005 Alumni set commemorated their 20th anniversary with the commissioning of the refurbished departmental building, new media facilities, and renovated studios. The event was graced by distinguished alumni, lecturers, and top management staff of the institution.
The celebration commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Adio Bukola, who expressed profound joy and gratitude for the remarkable transformation the department has experienced over the years.
“It is a day of joy and testimony,” he said. “Today, we have people who passed through this institution and have returned to give back to their alma mater as we mark 20 years of the greatest department in The Polytechnic Ibadan.”
The opening prayer was led by Mr. Mukadam, one of the proud alumni of the 2005 set, followed by a goodwill message from Mr. Yemi Akande, the current Alumni 2025 Set President. He thanked God for the journey so far and commended his colleagues for their collective contributions toward the department’s growth. Akande also lauded the department’s management for their continued support, describing their bond as one that has spanned over 27 years.
In his address, the Head of Department, Dr. Olusoji Olatunji, described the Mass Communication Department as one of the foremost and most respected in The Polytechnic Ibadan. He emphasized that the department remains committed to grooming great minds for the media industry. Dr. Olatunji hailed the alumni’s gesture as a noble act of corporate social responsibility and commended the progressive leadership of the Acting Rector, Dr. Abideen Lasisi.
Dr. Olatunji further announced that the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has approved the structural division of the department into three professional units. He also presented a “shopping list” of essential needs, including solar-powered air-conditioning systems, advanced communication equipment, a digital live broadcast system, an editing suite, low-energy studio lighting, and television screens, all aimed at supporting the department’s vision of becoming a fully-fledged faculty.
He concluded by saying:
“God bless the 2005 Alumni Set, God bless Mass Communication, God bless The Polytechnic Ibadan, and God bless Nigeria.”
Retired veteran lecturer, Mr. Adejumobi, fondly referred to as “Baba Adejumobi,” who taught in the department for over 35 years, expressed his joy at witnessing the success of his former students.
“Look at my children, now my bosses,” he said joyfully. “God has propelled this great department and will continue to.”
He appreciated the 2005 Alumni Set for their support during his retirement in 2019 and expressed optimism that greater achievements lie ahead for the department.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Yemi Adedokun, a lecturer and member of the 2005 Alumni Set, commended his colleagues for their remarkable efforts in ensuring the success of the commissioned projects.
As part of their contribution to academic excellence, the alumni announced an annual award of ₦100,000 and ₦50,000 respectively for the best graduating students over the next five years, alongside priority internship opportunities for outstanding graduates.
In his remarks, the Acting Rector, Dr. Abideen Lasisi, praised the department for its long-standing record of excellence, describing it as a role model for other departments in the institution.
“This department has done wonderfully well. In fact, you are a role model to other departments, there is no doubt about that,” he said.
Dr. Lasisi appreciated the department’s management and lecturers for their contributions to its continuous growth. He also commended the donors for their generosity and called for sustained support toward further development.
The Rector later inspected and officially commissioned the refurbished building and renovated studios, a project marking the fourth major intervention by the alumni body.
The event ended on a celebratory note, symbolizing not only a milestone anniversary but also a renewed commitment to academic excellence and professional advancement.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Acting Registrar, Mr. Joseph Ogunjimi; Mr. Akeem; Dr. Ajibola, Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; Dr. Olatunji, HOD, Office Technology Department; lecturers, staff, and management of the Mass Communication Department.