Ekoti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has described legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola as a man who has immortalised himself through his immense contributions to education and human capital development.
Oyebanji made the remark on Saturday during the annual Afe Babalola Day celebration held at the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe.
Represented by Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye, the governor said Babalola’s legacy in law, education, and philanthropy has positively shaped the lives of thousands of Nigerians.
He noted that Babalola’s achievements extend beyond his professional success, highlighting his major contributions to the state’s economy and youth empowerment.
“Chief Babalola is the highest individual taxpayer in Ekiti and the second-largest employer of labour after government,” Oyebanji said.
“He has not only built the best private university in Ekiti but has also touched countless lives through his generosity and vision.”
The governor praised Babalola’s consistent support for the state government, describing him as a father figure whose counsel has helped ensure stable governance.
In his remarks, Chief Afe Babalola expressed gratitude for the honour and reiterated his lifelong commitment to serving humanity and fighting poverty.
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He recalled that the creation of Ekiti State in 1996 was meant to foster growth and development, a vision he has worked tirelessly to achieve through education and empowerment.
“I think daily about the welfare of my people. As long as I live, I will live for them,” he said.
During the event, the ABUAD founder donated ₦100 million to two cooperative societies to provide low-interest loans and support small businesses.
Babalola urged governments at all levels to move beyond food handouts and focus on job creation and access to capital as sustainable empowerment measures.
The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, commended Babalola for his lasting contributions to poverty reduction and community development, describing him as a model of selflessness and service.
“History will forever be kind to Chief Afe Babalola,” the monarch said.
