In a grand ceremony at the palace of the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, the 10th edition of the Afe Beneficiaries event unfolded, paying homage to the esteemed legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Are Afe Babalola.
Attended by the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ayorinde Ilori Faboro Olojudo of Ido/Osi LGA Faboro, and other dignitaries, the occasion sought to honor Afe Babalola’s selfless efforts in advancing the state’s development, portraying him as an epitome of cheerful giving devoid of sentiments and bias.
Annually organized on December 12, the event stands as a collective expression of gratitude from all beneficiaries who have experienced Afe Babalola’s generosity.
Chief Solomon Morakinyo, the publisher of Kayegbo Magazine worldwide, recounted his transformative encounter with Afe Babalola upon relocating to Ekiti State. Describing it as a stroke of luck and divine intervention, Morakinyo revealed that a copy of “KAYEGBO” magazine sent by the Ewi of Ado Ekiti initiated a profound relationship that has deepened over the years. Unveiling the proposed Afe Babalola Park initiative during the celebration, Morakinyo expressed his vision for a museum that would showcase Afe Babalola’s remarkable legacy.
In his address, the Ewi, represented by High Chief Ogunmodimu, Odole of Ado Ekiti, praised Afe Babalola as a giant pillar of development, emphasizing his role as a bold unifier and dream builder.
During the event, Afe Babalola, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the honor and urged everyone to embrace the spirit of giving, highlighting its impact on his own journey. Promising unwavering support, he emphasized the belief that only hard work and persistence, guided by God’s blessings, lead to true success.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards to deserving individuals within Ado Ekiti, including Afe Babalola himself, creating a tapestry of recognition for those contributing to the development of the region.
Afe Babalola, CON OFR SAN, born on October 30, 1929, in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, is a distinguished Nigerian lawyer and the founder of Afe Babalola University. With a career spanning from 1963 to the present, he is recognized for his roles as a lawyer, farmer, educationist, and educational administrator. Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has received numerous awards, including the Order of the Niger and the Order of the Federal Republic. Notably, at the age of 94, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the legal and educational landscape of Nigeria.
