By Adeola James
Eminent Nigerians gathered at Abeokuta Club on Friday to celebrate with the former Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University and Life President of Abeokuta Club, Professor Afolabi Soyode on the occasion of his 85th birthday and presentation of a book, ‘The Making of a Life President’.
The event attracted eminent personalities from across the country who gathered to honour the respected academic, administrator and community leader for his outstanding contributions to education, public service and the development of Egbaland.
Among the eminent personalities at the gathering are former Ogun State governors, Chief Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, alongside the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, who all paid glowing tributes to the celebrant
Speaking on behalf of Chief Osoba, former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adekunle Adeyemi, described Prof. Soyode as an erudite scholar, accomplished administrator and exemplary community leader whose impact has continued to resonate across Ogun State and beyond.
He said the former vice-chancellor had consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the progress of Egbaland and Ogun State through selfless service, integrity and visionary leadership.
Adeyemi prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health and long life for the octogenarian, describing him as a role model worthy of emulation.
Former Governor Ibikunle Amosun congratulated Prof. Soyode and his wife, acknowledging the vital role of family support in the celebrant’s remarkable accomplishments over the years.
According to Amosun, Professor Soyode remains one of Ogun State’s most respected elder statesmen, having served with distinction and integrity in every public office entrusted to him.
He noted that the celebrant’s life reflects the enduring values of discipline, excellence, hard work and commitment to duty, which have continued to inspire younger generations.
The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, also extolled Prof. Soyode’s exemplary career, describing his 85th birthday as a milestone deserving of celebration.
The monarch praised the former vice-chancellor for his immense contributions to academia, leadership and community development, recalling his distinguished career from the University of Ibadan to his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Oba Gbadebo further commended Prof. Soyode’s commitment to the advancement of Egbaland and his invaluable service as Life President of the Abeokuta Club, noting that his dedication has earned him widespread respect.
He prayed that God would continue to grant the elder statesman and his wife good health, strength and many more years of fruitful service.
Speaking on behalf of the Soyode family, Otunba Wale Soyode applauded the celebrant’s enduring contributions to education, institution building and community leadership.
He described Prof. Soyode as an inspiring teacher, accomplished economist and committed leader whose influence has positively impacted countless lives through scholarship, public service and mentorship.
The highpoint of the celebration was the public presentation of Prof. Soyode’s book, Abeokuta Club: The Making of a Life President, which chronicles the history, values and leadership journey of one of Egbaland’s foremost socio-cultural organisations.
