By Basheer Luqman Olarewaju anipr
It was the 2011-12 academic session at Kwara State Polytechnic, and life in Block G, in room 18, fondly called “Up NEPA Boys,” was a vibrant mix of gists, debates, and friendly banter. One afternoon, as my friends and I sat in our room discussing the brilliance of Kwarans who lived in Lagos, we suddenly heard a commanding voice echoing through the compound. My friends—a mix of Lagos-based Kwarans from Oke Ode, Offa, Laduba, and Ijagbo—insisted that only Lagos-bred Kwarans excel academically. I was quick to counter their stance, declaring that brilliance knows no geographical limitation. Little did we know that a tall, fair-skinned, and eloquent figure about to stride into the hostel compound would settle the debate once and for all.
He arrived with an aura of confidence that silenced the entire Block G. His slim frame belied the commanding presence he carried. From his firm handshake to his engaging conversations, it was clear that this young man wasn’t just another student. My initial assumption was that he must be the Student Union President—his charisma and natural leadership exuded that level of authority. A quick inquiry later revealed his name: Tajudeen Habeeb, an Ilorin-bred student leader with a reputation for brilliance, resourcefulness, and unmatched wit. My friends, who had so passionately argued about Lagos-bred intellect, were left speechless. For the first time, they admitted that homegrown Kwarans like Tajudeen were just as, if not more, brilliant.
As a Student Union leader, Tajudeen was nothing short of exemplary. His oratory skills, coupled with his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, earned him the admiration of both students and staff. He went beyond the call of duty to champion causes that improved the lives of students and fostered unity on campus. Whether it was navigating the complexities of student grievances or organizing impactful events, Tajudeen’s leadership was marked by innovation, empathy, and results. He wasn’t just a leader; he was a beacon of hope, proving that Ilorin-bred talents could shine just as brightly, if not brighter, than their counterparts.
Now, as he contests for the position of National Alumni Publicity Secretary, it’s clear that Tajudeen Habeeb is the perfect candidate. His track record as a student leader speaks volumes about his capability to excel in any leadership role. He has the brilliance, the charisma, and the dedication needed to represent the Kwara Polytechnic Alumni Association with distinction. Tallest is not just a round peg in a round hole; he is the tallest among us, ready to elevate the association to greater heights. With Tallest at the helm of publicity, the future of the Alumni Association looks brighter than ever.