Oyebanji celebrates Afe Babalola’s service to humanity

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded legal icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), for his investment in education and human capital development.

Speaking at the Annual Afe Babalola Day held at the palace of the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, Oyebanji, represented by his deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, said the elder statesman had touched many lives through his career in law and the establishment of ABUAD.

“The name Afe Babalola is special to us in Ekiti State and particularly to Governor Oyebanji in so many ways.

“Firstly, he is the highest taxpayer as an individual in Ekiti State. Secondly, he established the best private university in Ekiti State, which makes him the second-highest employer of labour after the government.

“Thirdly, he is a leading light in terms of philanthropic gestures for individuals and institutions in our dear state and Nigeria.

“With all these, you have successfully immortalised yourself in the hearts and memories of the people. You have a proud legacy that will be difficult to erase. The name Afe Babalola has become an institution that opens any door in Nigeria and anywhere on the African continent,” Oyebanji stated.

The governor praised the legal luminary for supporting the state government, noting that his advisory role had strengthened good governance in Ekiti.

Chief Babalola thanked the organisers of the event and recalled the struggle for the creation of Ekiti State, saying it was aimed at building a strong economy and empowering the people.

Babalola thereafter donated N100 million to two cooperative societies, in addition to the N250 million he gave in 2024.

The Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, lauded him for his generosity and described him as a role model whose legacy will inspire future generations.