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AFE BABALOLA DAY: Ekiti kete celebrates Day in grand style, launches Transnational Education Centre for underprivileged youths
… As Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Femi Falana applaud his philanthropist legacy
Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has announced the establishment of the Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education in partnership with King’s College, London.
This initiative is aimed at offering brilliant but underprivileged young Africans the opportunity to earn university degrees without attending traditional institutions.
Babalola made the disclosure at the inaugural Aare Afe Babalola Day, held on Friday, 18th October 2024, at the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti’s palace in the Ekiti State capital.
The first of it’s kind event celebrated Aare Afe Babalola’s achievements and his contributions to education, law, and philanthropy.
Speaking on his decision to create the Centre, Chief Afe Babalola noted that it was inspired by his own journey, having obtained university degrees through self-study without attending secondary school or university.
He expressed his desire to provide similar opportunities to others facing financial and educational barriers.
Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), hailed Babalola as a man of destiny who rose from humble beginnings to reach the pinnacle of success.
Falana lauded his remarkable contributions to education and philanthropy, noting that Afe Babalola has carved out a special place for himself in these fields.
“Afe is a man of achievements who deserves to be celebrated not just by the Ado community, but by Ekiti people as a whole,” Falana said.
He also praised the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, for his unwavering support of Babalola, calling the annual celebration of Aare Afe Babalola Day a unique honour.
In his remarks, Oba Adejugbe described Babalola as a “faithful servant of the Ado-Ekiti community” and a staunch supporter of his reign.
He highlighted Babalola’s global reputation and the lasting legacy he has created, noting that his contributions to the town, state, and nation are exemplary.
“Aare Afe Babalola is a man whose legacy will endure, and we are honoured to celebrate him while he is still with us. His impact on education, law, and humanity at large cannot be overstated,” the Ewi said.
The Ewi further reiterated his earlier declaration from the Udiroko Festival, held on August 21, 2024, that October 18th would henceforth be dedicated to Aare Afe Babalola Day, to be celebrated annually.
The event was graced by dignitaries from various walks of life, as well as sons and daughters of Ado-Ekiti from home and abroad.
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