National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Funmi Ojo | Ibadan
The Chancellor of Precious Cornerstone University (PCU), Bishop Francis Wale Oke
has urged old students of various institutions to contribute to their alma mater’s development, in order to promote the Institution.
Bishop Oke, who also doubles as the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and Presiding Bishop of Sword of the Spirit Ministries, made this charge during the dedication of the newly constructed Temitayo Felix Owolabi Female Hostel on Tuesday at PCU, Olaogun Ibadan in Oyo State.
Speaking to the students, Bishop Oke said, “To you, my children, I pray that you will achieve greatness in life. When you do, I urge you to remember this institution. Alumni should be committed to giving back to their alma mater as a demonstration of love and dedication to the growth and development of the school that shaped them.”
Oke, in the presence of his wife, Victoria Tokunbo Oke, expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the hostel. He appreciated the immense contributions of Reverend Dr. Felix Owolabi and his wife, Temitayo, who contributed to the success of the project.
“We appreciate the love and commitment Reverend Dr. Felix Owolabi and his wife have shown to the progress of this university. May God continue to bless and support them,” he prayed.
Representing Governor Seyi Makinde at the event, Chief of Staff Segun Ogunwuyi commended the Owolabis for their dedication in promoting education. While officially inaugurating the hostel for use by female students, Ogunwuyi prayed for God’s blessings upon the couple and their ability to do more.
Prominent personalities, including former Minister for Special Duties, Elder Wole Oyelese; former Military Governor of old Oyo State, General Oladayo Popoola; and Dr. Bayo Adegoke, graced the occasion.
The newly completed hostel, which had faced construction delays due to rising building material costs, was however completed at an estimated cost of ₦450 million.
Reverend Owolabi explained in details what motivated him to participate in the project with his wife. “Initially, I wanted to make a modest contribution towards the project, but my wife insisted that we take full responsibility for its completion. She even emptied our account for the church to support the project.”
“Years ago, even $10 was a significant amount to me. Today, amounts that once seemed monumental no longer hold the same value. I thank my wife for inspiring me to embrace this great destiny,” he added.
The completion of the hostel has brought succor to PCU students who expressed excitement and optimistic that this would alleviate the living conditions of the student in the campus.
