Founder and Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) has once again stressed the urgent need for Nigeria and Africa at large to invest more in agriculture and entrepreneurial education as key strategies for achieving sustainable development and boosting intercontinental trade.
Babalola made this known after receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Law Association (ILA), Nigerian Branch, during its 8th Annual International Law Conference held at ABUAD.
“Investment in agriculture will not only ensure food security and make Africa the food basket of the world,” he said, “but it will also attract foreign exchange and direct investments that our continent desperately needs.”
He also advocated for entrepreneurial education as a way to equip young Africans with the skills to solve local problems, build businesses, and become drivers of national development.
A Night of Accolades and Global Dignitaries
The conference was a star-studded event, moderated by Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu, and attended by top dignitaries and international law experts, including:
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Prof. Damilola Olawuyi (SAN) – ILA Nigeria President and UN Working Group expert
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Hon. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof – Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, Gambia
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Amb. Muhamadou Musa Njie – Gambia Ambassador to Nigeria
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Mr. Kolawole Sofola – Director of Trade, ECOWAS Commission
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Prof. Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde – Vice Chancellor, ABUAD
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Legal luminaries such as Mark Mordi (SAN) and Chief Kayode Aderemi
Babalola’s legacy was celebrated as that of a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a titan in law, education, agriculture, and philanthropy. Notably, he is a two-time recipient of the African Man of the Year in Food Security (2014 and 2024).
Recognising the Next Generation
Other notable recognitions included:
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Emmanuel Latona Adedeji – Winner of the ILA Emerging Star Award
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Ayodeji Asala – Recipient of the ILA Service Award as ABUAD chapter president
Prof. Olawuyi praised Babalola’s contributions to international law, development, and mentorship, calling him a symbol of excellence in education, foreign policy, and nation-building.
“We are greatly inspired by his dedication to empowering others. He exemplifies everything we hope to achieve as international lawyers,” said Olawuyi.
About the ILA
Founded in Brussels in 1873, the International Law Association promotes the study, clarification, and development of international law. It now has over 4,500 members in 45 branches globally, and holds consultative status with several UN agencies.
The Nigerian branch continues to foster impactful conversations on law, development, and diplomacy—values Aare Afe Babalola has upheld throughout his life.
