The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Okitipupa branch, Ondo State, has honoured the founder of Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, as the ‘Diamond of the Legal Profession in Africa’.
The Chairman of the NBA Okitipupa branch, Omotola Odusola, while speaking at the weekend in ABUAD, described Babalola as a beacon of excellence and an icon of resilience.
He added that the honour is to celebrate “the unmatched contributions of the legal luminary, entrepreneur, and philanthropist to jurisprudence, legal advocacy, education, and societal advancement.”
According to him, “Today, we gather to recognise an extraordinary individual whose name resonates far and wide, a luminary who has blazed trails across the fields of law, education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
“I speak of none other than Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, PhD—a towering figure whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
“Your commitment to community development is evident in your instrumental role in the creation of Ekiti State, the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic in Ado-Ekiti, and your contributions to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti.
“It is no exaggeration to say that you embody the qualities of a true statesman—a man whose life and career reflect an unrelenting commitment to the upliftment of society. For your unparalleled achievements, you have been recognised with numerous national and international honours, including the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), among others.”
The Chairman described Babalola as a colossus in the legal profession, adding, “The establishment of Emmanuel Chambers in 1965 marked the beginning of a legal dynasty that has nurtured over 1,500 legal practitioners, including judges and senior advocates. Your courtroom advocacy and contributions to Nigeria’s legal jurisprudence have shaped landmark cases that remain points of reference to this day,” he said.
Babalola expressed gratitude to the NBA Okitipupa branch for the honour, pledging his partnership with the NBA branch towards advancing the legal profession in society.
The elder statesman said, “The English language lacks words to truly express what the mind feels. However, I say thank you very much indeed.”
“Today marks the beginning of me being a partner to you there. Whatever you want to do, I want to have a hand in it.”
The Vice-Chancellor of ABUAD, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, extolled Babalola’s towering achievements.
She remarked, “On behalf of the entire university, and especially our highly esteemed chancellor, founder, and proprietor, governing council, and Senate, we want to say a big thank you to you. Daddy, you deserve this over and above. Despite your proliferation in all areas of human endeavour, especially legal practice, you have always stood at the apex nationally and internationally.”
Olarinde highlighted Babalola’s enduring legacy in education, legal practice, and humanity, adding, “You have done so much for the legal profession, for jurisprudence worldwide, and for the justice system. This recognition will inspire you to continue to achieve even greater heights.”
The delegation was taken on a tour of ABUAD’s flagship facilities, including the Independent Power Plant, FESCO Factory, Greenhouse, Cassava Factory, and Wheat & Rice Factory, among others.
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