In Oyo State and far beyond, tributes are pouring in today for a man whose life embodies intellect, integrity, and transformational leadership—Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, as he marks another milestone birthday says by Amofin Beulah Adeoye in his birthday message to Oyo outstanding educationist and administrator.
More than a celebration of age, today is a moment of reflection and recognition for a public servant whose quiet dedication has reshaped Oyo State’s educational landscape and whose moral compass continues to inspire a generation.
With a Ph.D. in Communication Arts and Community Development from the University of Ibadan, and a Law degree (LL.B. Hons.), Dr. Adeniran exemplifies a rare blend of academic excellence and legal acumen. From the lecture halls of Kaduna Polytechnic and Lead City University to the corridors of power in government, he has consistently brought depth, discipline, and dignity to every role.
His journey in public service began with notable strides as Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, where his people-first approach became his trademark. As Commissioner for Industry, Applied Science and Technology, and later Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Adeniran’s impact deepened.
When he took over the education ministry during a crisis marked by unpaid salaries, collapsing infrastructure, and low morale, many doubted recovery was possible. But within a short period, he cleared salary backlogs, renovated schools, revived open-day systems to reconnect schools with communities, and enforced accountability through surprise inspections. Oyo State’s basic education ranking climbed from 27th to 11th in the country under his leadership.
Now serving as Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr. Adeniran has sustained that momentum. Over 7,000 teachers and 1,000 caregivers have been employed under his watch. Rural and urban schools alike have undergone transformation, with policies leaning towards inclusivity and innovation.
Not even health challenges have deterred his commitment. During the last computer-based recruitment exercise for teachers, Dr. Adeniran was reportedly physically indisposed, yet present every day to ensure the process ran seamlessly—only seeking treatment after the mission was completed.
For those who know him beyond the headlines, Dr. Adeniran is also a loyal friend, a mentor, and a man of deep faith. Political conversations and policy brainstorming were once a Sunday staple at his Lagos home—over plates of amala and rich discourse. He has remained a pillar not only of strategy but of values.
He returned to teach at his alma mater, Muslim Grammar School, Odinjo, demonstrating humility and a commitment to nurturing the next generation. He revitalized the OYOSUBEB mosque, reinstated weekly Friday prayers, organized impactful Ramadan lectures, and strengthened interfaith harmony in the state.
His leadership has earned regional recognition, culminating in his election as Chairman of the South-West SUBEB Chairmen Forum, representing six states. Still, Dr. Adeniran remains grounded—often seen engaging directly with teachers, caregivers, and community leaders without ceremony or show.
His legacy is not in titles but in trust. Not in accolades but in lives changed.
Today, as friends, colleagues, students, and admirers celebrate Dr. Nureni Adeniran, Oyo State stands tall in gratitude. Nigeria, too, salutes one of its finest sons—a servant-leader whose life reminds us that leadership, when rooted in love and service, still has the power to transform.
Happy Birthday, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran.
May your path continue to shine as a beacon for all.
