“This honour is not only for him, but also for the entire people of Ekiti State. He is one of our leaders and a guiding light and shining star”
By Nudoiba Ojen
IT was yet another moment of honour for the Ekiti-born legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN on Sunday as yet another honorary degree of Doctor of Law and Administration was conferred on him by Babcock University.
The honour was conferred on him during the convocation ceremony of the institution where Olanipekun, who is a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, was also the convocation lecturer.
The Vice-Chancellor, Babcock University, Ilisan- Remo, Prof. Tayo Adeola, explained that the decision to honor Chief Olanipekun and Mrs Bukola Smith in the occasion, was due to their notable contributions to national growth and development.
Prof. Adeola hailed their achievements and emphasized the university’s commitment to recognizing individuals who have positively impacted the society.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who was also in attendance at the ceremony, acknowledged Chief Olanipekun’s contributions, which he said extended beyond Nigeria’s borders but recognized globally.
Governor Abiodun commended Babcock University for their choice in honoring Chief Olanipekun and another distinguished personality, Mrs. Bukola Smith.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, reiterated his administration’s commitment to human capital development targeted at nurturing leaders across various fields and bringing the state to greater national and global prominence.
Governor Oyebanji who extolled Chief Olanipekun’s sterling qualities as a legal luminary and a highly respected leader in the State, described him as a global star who has continually brought pride and recognition to Ekiti State.
The Governor said his administration’s huge investment in human capital development is geared towards producing more professionals and leaders in the mold of Chief Olanipekun in different areas of human endeavors.
While expressing gratitude to the authorities of Babcock University for recognizing and honoring Chief Olanipekun, Governor Oyebanji said the accolades showered on the respected legal icon also reflect the excellence of the entire state.
“I must, on behalf of Ekiti State Government, appreciate the management of Babcock University for joining the list of many universities that have honored Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN).
“This honour is not only for him, but also for the entire people of Ekiti State. He is one of our leaders and a guiding light and shining star. To me personally, he is like a father,” Governor Oyebanji stated.
Chief Olanipekun, in the convocation lecture, urged the graduating students to remain focused, resolute and dedicated to the nation’s development as he encouraged them to continually seek knowledge and use it for the betterment of the society.
