CELEBRATING A LIVING ANCESTOR:
A Father’s Day Tribute to Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON
On this special occasion of Father’s Day, I proudly celebrate a living legend, an extraordinary statesman, and my great benefactor, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
Today, I pay tribute to a man who stands tall like an Iroko tree—firmly rooted in integrity, vision, excellence, and selfless service to humanity. From humble beginnings, he rose through determination, discipline, and unwavering faith to become one of Nigeria’s most respected legal luminaries, educationists, philanthropists, and nation-builders.
Aare Afe Babalola’s remarkable journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to noble ideals. His life story continues to inspire generations of Nigerians to dream beyond limitations and pursue greatness with purpose.
Through the establishment of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), he has created more than a world-class institution of learning; he has built a lasting legacy. The university stands today as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, character development, and transformational leadership, positively projecting the image of Ekiti State and Nigeria across the globe.
His contributions to education, agriculture, healthcare, community development, and philanthropy have touched countless lives and brought hope to many. Indeed, his life remains a powerful testimony to the truth captured in the title of his celebrated autobiography: “Impossibility Made Possible.”
Today, we celebrate not only his longevity but also the enduring impact of his vision, generosity, wisdom, and service. He is truly a rare gift to our generation—a moral compass, a fountain of inspiration, and a shining example of purposeful living.
As we honour fathers around the world today, I am especially grateful for the fatherly support, mentorship, and encouragement that Baba Afe has extended to me and countless others. His influence transcends family ties and reaches into the lives of all who have been privileged to encounter his generosity and wisdom.
Congratulations, Baba Afe, on this Father’s Day celebration.
May Almighty God continue to bless you with sound health, peace, strength, and many more years of impactful service to humanity. May your light continue to shine brightly, guiding present and future generations along the path of excellence, integrity, and nation-building.
Long live my benefactor, famous kinsman, distinguished patriot, and living ancestor, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON.
— Femi Alufa
Publisher/CEO, EKITI SUMMIT News Media Group.