The Nigeria’s premier university in Ibadan was in a celebratory mood as scholars, traditional rulers, public office holders and associates gathered to honour a distinguished academic of the University of Ibadan, Professor Babatunde Ayeleru, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.
The event held on Thursday, February 12 at the Trenchard Hall of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan.
Marked by tributes and reflections, the event drew an impressive roll call of dignitaries who described the celebrant as a rare blend of brilliance, discipline and cultural depth.
The Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Kola-Daisi, alongside Olori Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja, represented His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja Arusa I.
Deliverying the Olubadan’s message, the Osi Olubadan, Oba Kola-Daisi, praised the celebrant for projecting Ibadan and Yoruba heritage positively within global academic circles.
He noted that Professor Ayeleru has distinguished himself as a respected and dependable political leader within what was described as the ‘Ladoja’s school of politics.’
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Oyebode, described Professor Ayeleru as a pillar within the Faculty of Arts, and commended his scholarship, administrative acumen and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
According to him, the university remains proud of the professor’s contributions to research and postgraduate supervision as well as intellectual depth.
Dignitaries in attendance took turns to deliver glowing tributes. They described Professor Ayeleru, former Director General of the Nigerian French Language Village, as “an accomplished scholar whose intellectual contributions have strengthened French studies and international cultural exchange in Nigeria.”
They noted in their separate addresses and remarks that the celebrant’s impact extends beyond the classroom into institutional development and mentorship.
They equally highlighted Professor Ayeleru’s role in strengthening administrative processes and deepening collegiality within the academic community.
Chairman of the occasion recalled years of professional interaction with the celebrant, characterising him as meticulous, forward thinking and deeply invested in institutional growth.
Principal officers of the university, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and former Registrar, Mr. Segun Ajiboye, also paid glowing tributes.
Others who spoke, shared personal reflections, describing the celebrant as a dependable colleague and mentor whose door remains open to students and peers alike.
Former Oyo State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Barrister Niyi Farinto, and Professor Abayomi Folorunso of Osun State University commended the professor’s intellectual rigour and consistency over three decades of service.
A delegation from the Nigerian French Language Village, Badagry, Lagos, was also present, underscoring Professor Ayeleru’s longstanding ties with the institution and his influence in advancing French language scholarship nationally.
Former Minister of Communications, Barrister Bayo Shittu, and an immediate past Vice Chancellor of the university also joined in celebrating what they described as “60 years of brilliance.”
The chairman of the occasion, in an emotional reflection, recalled his first visit to the University of Ibadan around 1971 and his experiences across the Ibadan metropolis.
He spoke of his enduring bond with Oyo State and the Yoruba people, noting that Professor Ayeleru represents the finest traditions of scholarship and cultural pride associated with the ancient city.
In his response, Professor Ayeleru, in company of his wife, expressed gratitude to God, family, colleagues and students for their unwavering support through the years.
He reaffirmed his commitment to scholarship, mentorship and the continued advancement of the humanities in Nigeria.
Other notable personalities present at the event were Former Vice Chancellor, Idowu Olayinka, ex Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Chief Oyebisi Ilaka, Mrs. Olufunke Olateju, Professor O. A. Morounkola, former Director General of the National Institute of Sports, former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeolu Adeleke, Professor Dele Adeyanjo, and Professor Mutiat Oladejo of the History Department.