By: Fémí Emmanuel
The Ogbomoso Restoration Movement, based in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, held a landmark event on Thursday, May 22, 2025, as it organized a valedictory lecture in honour of the late Professor Oyekale Oyedeji, a revered academic icon. The ceremony took place at the University Hall and marked yet another significant stride in the organization’s commitment to celebrating excellence.
The event commenced at exactly 10:26 a.m. and was coordinated by Mr. Benjamin Onigbinde, the convener of both the Ogbomoso Restoration and Ogbomoso Movement. He formally welcomed and introduced the distinguished guests in attendance.
Among the dignitaries present were members of the Soun-in-Council led by Kabiyesi Olaoshebikan Onifedegbo of Fedegbo, Alhaji Kasali, the Abese of Abese, and Kabiyesi Adeyemi, representing His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III. Also in attendance were several academic leaders, including the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Olatunde Razaq Kalihu, who was ably represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Araromi.
After the formal introductions, the Vice-Chancellor declared the lecture open and delivered a welcome address. In his speech, he highlighted the significance of the lecture and commended the Ogbomoso Youth Movement for initiating such a commendable and impactful event.
The highlight of the ceremony was the keynote address delivered by Professor Akintade Dare, Special Adviser to Chief Sunday Dare. His lecture was titled “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Africa.” Professor Dare emphasized that technological advancement, when properly utilized, can significantly enhance Africa’s sustainable development. He highlighted smart energy solutions, such as solar grid power, which have already started powering various industries across the continent.
He also spoke on the relevance of smart education through e-learning platforms that provide broader access to knowledge, as well as smart healthcare, citing the example of the Dental Panorama Radiographic System at Bowel Hospital, Ogbomoso, which is comparable to similar systems in the United States.
Professor Dare further stressed the importance of scientific policy and governance in achieving development goals and called for increased innovation in agriculture. He noted that new farming techniques and the design of advanced machinery have made farming more efficient—all as a result of strategic application of science and technology.
The event concluded with tributes to the late Professor Oyekale Oyedeji. The Chairman of Ogbomoso Academicians, Professor Olagbemiro, represented by Professor Alice Jekayinfa, extolled Professor Oyedeji’s virtues. She praised his early financial contributions towards the establishment of Ogbomoso University and offered heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Ogbomoso community.
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, represented by Kabiyesi Olaoshebikan Onifedegbo, described the late Professor Oyedeji as a philanthropist, a courageous leader, and a God-fearing man who remained deeply committed to the progress of Ogbomoso people both at home and abroad.
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