A group of Ekiti indigenes based in the United States, under the banner of Ekiti Kete Coalition, USA, has honored the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, with the prestigious ‘Outstanding Achiever of All Time’ award.
This recognition comes in appreciation of Babalola’s significant contributions to the development and creation of Ekiti State.
In addition to honoring Babalola, the group also presented the ‘Outstanding Political Icon’ award to the Senate Leader and Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
Presenting the awards during a ceremony in Ado-Ekiti, the President of Ekiti Kete Coalition, Hon. Joe Olugbamila, emphasized the importance of celebrating Afe Babalola while he is still alive, citing his immense impact on education, healthcare, the legal profession, and his philanthropic efforts towards the growth of the state.
Olugbamila also praised the Ado-Ekiti community for designating October 18 as Afe Babalola Day, a gesture he believes will help ensure future generations appreciate the elder statesman’s contributions. However, he criticized the Ekiti State House of Assembly for rejecting a bill that sought to declare an official Afe Babalola Day, urging Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other stakeholders to revisit the matter.
“We need to celebrate our revered legal icon while he is alive,” Olugbamila stated. “Baba Afe has made tireless contributions to the development of our state and country. His work in establishing ABUAD, the multi-system hospital, and the industrial park are testament to his vision and dedication.”
In response, Afe Babalola expressed gratitude to the group for recognizing his efforts from abroad. He thanked them for proposing the idea of a day in his honor and reiterated his commitment to building a better society.
Babalola urged Nigerians to adopt a mindset of hard work and determination, stressing that the country is blessed with vast resources. He noted that he founded ABUAD to produce graduates who would play key roles in reshaping the nation and called on citizens to foster love and unity in their communities.
