The Public Voice

On February 4, 2024, the Public Voice News Agency team had the privilege of sitting down with the Head of the Department of Public Administration for an insightful conversation about the department's new program initiatives. The interview began with warm introductions, and the HOD welcomed the team with enthusiasm, sharing a brief history of the department. He highlighted its foundational role within the university, tracing its roots back to the Institute of Administration. Over time, the department has evolved, even giving rise to other departments like Local Government Studies. Reflecting on its academic journey, the HOD noted that the department initially focused solely on postgraduate studies. However, in 2009, it expanded to include undergraduate programs, introducing the BSc in Public Administration. Now, the department is taking another bold step forward with the development of new programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. While some programs have already recei...

The grand finale of the Humanities Continental Cup took place on Wednesday, February 6, at the Obafemi Awolowo University Mainbowl, where the undefeated Public Administration team faced off against a determined Business Administration side. Both teams came in with high energy, knowing that only one would leave as champions. The match exploded into action early on, with Public Administration striking first. Their star forward and tournament top scorer, Mubarak (Mubby), found the net after a well-placed assist from Ola, setting off wild celebrations. However, the lead was short-lived as Business Administration quickly responded with an equalizer before the excitement of the first goal could settle. The first half ended 1-1, keeping the tension high. The second half saw both teams return with renewed determination, but it was Business Administration who took control, scoring a crucial goal to take the lead. From that moment on, Public Administration threw everything forward in search of a...

  The second edition of the NAPAS Marathon took place this morning, kicking off at the Faculty of Administration, looping through the Maintenance shortcut, and returning to the starting point. The event saw an exciting turnout, with participants from all levels—Part 1 to Part 4—eager to compete. As the race began, some inexperienced runners took off at sprinting speed, a mistake that cost many of them dearly as fatigue set in before the first lap was completed. Despite receiving tips from the defending champion and current Sports Director, many new runners ignored his advice, learning the hard way that a marathon is more about endurance than speed. The turning point of the race came at the Local Government Bus Stop during the second lap when Part 4 student Hojutex surged ahead, taking the lead and never looking back. His stamina and strategy saw him cross the finish line first, securing the top spot in this year’s edition. The surprise of the race, however, came from the Part 1 stu...

The much-anticipated NAPAS Congress meeting finally commenced at 3:08 PM after an initial delay for which the President apologised. As Congressman Abisola led the opening prayer, the room settled into an air of focus and anticipation. The agenda for the day was promptly adopted following a motion by Congressman Ejiro, while the minutes from the previous Congress was read, and in the absence of corrections, adopted by Congressman Ayomide, The General Secretary of the department. Key Discussions Financial Updates: A Call for Dues Payment The Financial Secretary took the floor, stressing the urgent need for stalites to pay their outstanding dues. With less than 10% of members having completed their payments, concerns were raised about financial sustainability. As an incentive, it was confirmed that membership packages would be distributed before the end of the session, reinforcing the necessity of clearing outstanding dues. Sports and Social Updates Congressman Badmus Abdulrahman, th...

The sitting commenced at 2:45 PM with an apology for the late start. Napasite Al-ameen led the opening prayer, followed by the singing of the anthem. The roll call was taken, and the Clerk of the house read resolution of the last sitting and it was adopted with the Speaker’s endorsement. Matters Discussed 1. Petition on Honourable Selection Process The Clerk of the House raised an observation regarding a petition submitted by the Class of Undaunted, challenging the transparency and consultation process in the selection of honourables. The petition called for corrective measures to uphold democratic values. The Speaker addressed concerns regarding Honourable Candidate Adedayo (Kabiyesi), stating that he had volunteered for the position and that the Electoral Commission oversaw the selection. However, Napasite Feranmi raised concerns about the commission’s transparency, describing the process as fraudulent. Honourable Chioma suggested refunding any financial transactions involved, and th...

The Public Administration football team has secured their place in the final of the Humanities Continental Cup after a tense semifinal clash against the Philosophy team. The match had everything—intensity, controversy, and a thrilling penalty shootout that ended 5-4 in favor of NAPAS. From the kickoff, it was clear that both teams came prepared. The game was tightly contested, making it hard to predict a winner. However, Philosophy struck first, taking an early lead and putting NAPAS under pressure. Despite multiple attempts, Public Administration couldn’t find the equalizer before halftime, and they went into the break trailing 0-1. Determined to turn the game around, NAPAS came into the second half with more energy, pushing for an equalizer. Their efforts paid off late in the game when a Philosophy defender committed a handball inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot, awarding a penalty to NAPAS. Their ever-reliable forward, Mubby, stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into ...

The Public Administration football team wrapped up their group stage campaign in the Humanities Continental Cup with yet another victory, defeating their opponents 1-0 in today’s match. This makes it five wins in five matches, proving their dominance in the competition. A Game of Comfort With their spot in the semifinals already secured, today’s match was more of a luxury for NAPAS. Win, draw, or lose—it wouldn’t have changed their qualification. As a result, the team stepped onto the pitch without pressure, simply enjoying the game. Despite not playing with full intensity, the quality of the NAPAS team was still too much for their opponents. Even without the usual hunger for victory, they controlled the game effortlessly. Slade Secures the Win The only goal of the match came in the first half, courtesy of a Part 4 student, Slade. His well-placed finish was enough to seal the win, as NAPAS remained in control for the rest of the match. Their opponents struggled to keep up, unable to br...

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, stands as one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning. Established in 1961, the university has played a vital role in advancing education and leadership in Nigeria and beyond. Its history is deeply rooted in Nigeria’s post-independence drive for academic excellence and innovation. The Birth of a Vision Originally named the University of Ife, OAU was founded as part of Nigeria’s regional approach to education. The Western Region government, led by Premier Chief Obafemi Awolowo, envisioned a university that would cater to the unique educational needs of the region. The institution was officially inaugurated on June 8, 1961, making it the second university established in Nigeria after the University of Ibadan. The university admitted its first set of students in October 1962. Initially, administrative functions were handled in Ibadan before the university relocated to its permanent campus in Il...

The Public Administration football team continued their impressive run in the Humanities Continental Cup, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over the Accounting team in Matchday 4. This latest win extends their unbeaten streak to four games, further proving their dominance in the competition. A Focused Start The Public Administration team arrived at the pitch early, taking time to warm up and mentally prepare while waiting for their opponents. By 11:00 AM, the referee signaled the start of the match, setting the stage for an intense battle. First Half: A Tight Contest Both teams came prepared and determined, showing strong defensive discipline. The first half was a display of resilience, with neither side allowing a breakthrough. Public Administration earned two free kicks and a corner, while Accounting managed one corner, but neither side found the back of the net. The halftime whistle blew with the scoreboard still locked at 0-0. Second Half: Public Administration Takes Control The se...