Boss Picks
Why I Want to Represent Epe at the Federal House – Princess Aderemi Adebowale
By Eric Elezuo
When you talk about agility, passion for service, commitment, determination and focus, one woman possesses all in good quantity. She is Princess Aderemi Adebowale – a kind mother, adorable wife and an administrator of great repute. In this brief chat, she explains the force that drives her aspiration to represent Epe Federal constituency in the House of Representatives. Excerpts:
Would you please fill us in as to what your credentials are considering the position you are vying for and what prompted you to take such a decision?
First of all, I am a people-oriented person. I love people, and desires to be with them always. This quality prompted the establishment of DeboR Zero Hunger Foundation, which primary goal is to feed school children. The vision came when it dawn on me that some children in Lagos don’t have access to breakfast before going to school. How can they therefore, concentrate? How can they face or hear the teacher? This draws down their academic level, and they will remain on a depreciation level. But when they have something in their stomach, they would be alert, ready to learn and their grades would improve. I did all this in Epe Federal Constituency. I started with a meal a day where I gave the children bread and beans with fruits like orange to provide them with vitamin C. However, the cost was a bit high, moreover it was more of lunch than breakfast.
In the alternative, I sourced the most nutritious of drinks and snacks at the Balogun Market by myself, and changed their diet. The feeding was by choice. No one was forced to take his, but every child was given. You therefore, have the privilege to either accept or decline. I replicated the programme in the riverine areas too. They used that as breakfast and felt okay.
Not only that, I also undertook infrastructure repairs functions like when I renovated the nursery section of Odomola Primary School in my father’s hometown. All these were even before I ventured into politics.
Apart from the exhibition of your milk of human kindness, what professional jobs have you undertaken?
I have practiced journalism as a freelancer, writing for The Nation Newspapers. That was in 2013 through to 2014. I wrote on relationship matters because I care for people. I must add that all these while, I was romancing politics on the side. Like I said, I care for people a lot and everything I do is people-centered. I have realized that for me to affect people on a larger scale, politics is the way to go, and that explains my decision to join the mainstream politics. While some people go into politics for their personal gain, that is not my orientation. I have lived in the United States of America for 30 years, and it has shaped my people centred orientation. Over there, there is a sort of unwritten law about being ones brother’s keeper. I have imbibed that culture.
While romancing politics on the side, what were you involved in?
I was on ground in 2011 for Fashola’s re-election. Also, in 2015, I campaigned vigorously for Governor Akinwummi Ambode and President Muhammadu Buhari, which of course was part of our mandate in APC. Again, and more importantly, I was the sole administrator of Iru Victoria Island LCDA.
Okay, let me preempt you there. Somebody must have been a great motivation and inspiration for you to aspire political power. Who is that one great inspiration?
Right now, my greatest inspiration is Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and I will tell you why. Number one; she is a woman and two, she is a selfless person. In 2011, I followed her activities including producing souvenirs for her, and was mesmerized by her carriage and personality. The same in 2015. But when I went to serve in Victoria Island under Eti-Osa, which is part of the senatorial district she covers, I was able to study her very well. She is full of interesting and courageous activities – on a regular basis, she calls a stakeholders’ meeting and presents a report. The report card is a documentation of everything she has done, every project she has covered. This she does on a quarterly basis.
She is also giving to the grassroots people, majorly the women and the youths, people who wish to augment their merchandise, those seeking jobs and many others. Currently, she has a number of young girls she is mentoring.
And of course, she is married to a giant – a selfless father and an all-round achiever – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Why is she very quiet about her good deeds?
Well, I think it’s just the kind of person that she is, and I am emulating her. In truth, I have the same passion myself. If I am asked to rate all the senators in Nigeria, I’ll give her the highest grade.
Why? Because she is a woman?
No. Not at all. As a senator, I give her number one and as a woman I’ll give her A+. She has redefined the popular statement by making it what a man can do better, a woman can do best and that is one of my slogans. I am sorry to say this, it is not as if the other senators are not performing, she just surpasses all of them. We women, we tend to put in our mother-instincts into our work, and this helps in propelling us forward than our male counterparts.
Okay! Before we get back to the role model thing again, we know you must have had quality education. What is your educational background like?
I started my primary school at Ireti Boys and Girls school, Ikoyi but was transferred to Christ Church Cathedral School where I finished primary school. I went to Yaba College of Technology, but stayed for only one year before travelling abroad to study Nursing. It must interest you to know that my father, and in fact everyone in my family is business oriented. There are 25 of us; two are late and about 21 of us are into our own businesses. I’d wanted to setup my own nursing outfit so I studied for my RN.
…RN is an abbreviation for?
Registered Nurse; it’s a professional nursing vocation that qualifies me to open my own nursing agency. I have an Associate Degree in Nursing to become a Professional Registered Nurse in 2006.
At the same time, I was running a sandwich programme at the Lagos State University (LASU) in Political Science and Education. This was because I knew one day I was going to go into politics.
I also have a Masters in Public Health from the International University, Bamenda, Cameroon. All these were happening even as I was doing my business on the side. In between, I started Remindales Healthcare Agency, the Serenity Manor which is a nursing home, Remsen Investment, Purple Heart Construction among others. In fact, I pride myself as an expert in multi-tasking, and I enjoy it. Even now, I run a Talk show programme on TV and still coordinating my campaign for my political aspiration. I will be holding a mega rally on the 7th of September before the primaries on the 27th.
Princess Adebowale on a visit to the first baby of the year 2017
What will you say is responsible for this burst of energy?
I don’t know and I can’t say. Maybe because I’m a Leo and we are always very energetic or maybe I got it from my parents. I’m not just the kind of person to sit back. I am active, energetic. I’m innovative and love to be creative. I read and study a lot. Where do I get the strength from? I think that’s just how I am.
What are you promising the people of Epe as their representative?
In 2015, I contested for the House of reps for the first time. There were 11 of us then and I was the only woman and I was told to step down. Ever since then, I have been an ardent follower of His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, believing and supporting his goals and agenda, and I must say he has performed beyond the expectation of everyone including myself.
Sometime in June 2016, I was appointed a sole Administrator for Victoria Island even as my political base is in Epe. However, Oba Idowu Oniru, Akinogun II, who I reverence so much, and the royal family welcomed me with open hands, but the people themselves were not very thrilled, perhaps because I was more like a foreigner in their midst.
Notwithstanding, I brought in my vibrancy and wowed them with my work and vision. Now, they were thrilled. I carried out the mandate of His Excellency to the latter. I kicked off my stewardship by empowering the women. I cooperated with agencies and corporations including LASSA, Zenith Bank and others to change the face of Victoria Island. With LASSA, we renovated a hall, and while they took some parts for their offices, I had a large chunk for women empowerment training. Here, women were trained on makeup skills, head gear tying, photography, fashion designing and many others.
Princess Adebowale with her team feeding primary school pupils
While partnering with the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the able leadership of Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, I created an Information Technology centre. The good thing is that everything about the centre was ready in one week, and it was named after Chief (Mrs.) Akande in appreciation of her support. Before long, we graduated 60 persons (men and women) from the centre. My administration was involved in roads construction and renovations. Let me tell you, I don’t just give instruction and sit back, I go to the site and monitor the actual work being done. Someone once walked up to me and commended my tactics with a promise to vote for APC in all elections. We renovated six roads among which is Bishop Kale road and everyone was happy
On the governor’s instruction, I totally overhauled Eko Hotel roundabout and set up the park you see there today in splendor. We did all that. It is called Serenity Parks and Gardens to depict peace, and located at the Eko Hotel roundabout opposite Zenith Bank. I must appreciate Zenith Bank for their support and partnership in making the place the beauty it is today.
On sensitisation tour with Youth Corps members
We were also able to conduct three medical missions, starting from August 10, 2016 (my birthday) when we ran free eye test, blood pressure check and we also administered medications. On the second mission, we partnered with Eko Club International and another association from the United States. The third mission was wholly in partnership with the Lagos State government. We achieved much and more within the 13 months at our disposal.
Consequently, if I can do that much in someone else’s environment, it means I can do much more in my own place. Without sounding boastful, I must say that there are people who have been on the seat for eight years and cannot accomplish half of what I did in 13 months.
What prompted your interest to contest the Reps seat?
Thank God for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who made all of us realize we are aspirants through his public proclamation. I therefore, said to myself that in my division a woman hasn’t really come out. Much as we have done things but we haven’t been very active on the political front. I reasoned that if I can represent myself very well in all my endeavours then I can represent the women in Epe Federal Constituency and more importantly, represent my people of Epe generally. I have a wonderful track record in business and as LGA sole administrator in Victoria Island. My interest is prompted by the desire to replicate what I did in Victoria Island and in private business in Epe Federal Constituency – among my own people.
Also, those in the Diaspora are looking out for people like me to make the place better so that they can come up home and join the rebuilding process. In fact, a lot of people are looking up to me to make a major difference, and I cannot fail them. It’s not just about me or my people here, it transcends to my people outside the country because we want them to come back home. They want to come home to a replica of what they are used to out there.
On another selfless community service
I want to create a space where people will detest collecting N5, 000 to vote in elections, rather empower them to make N5, 000 daily, and by the end of a four year tenure, he or she would have earned seven million, 300 thousand naira – that is what an average Nigerian should be earning.
Since you declared your intention to run for this position, what would you say the reception has been like?
Tremendous! Remember, I said I wasn’t out rightly interested in this position but as a firm believer in God, I prayed, I said God, if this isn’t your will, don’t allow anyone believe in me, but if it is, let me see the sign. Ever since, the response has been positive and welcoming. In fact, there was a time I felt like crying and I said, God this is not me this is you. I am just an instrument; just use me to change and better peoples’ lives. The reception, without mincing words, has been very overwhelming.
Why the House of Reps? Why not LG chairman or state House of Assembly
Well, when we were appointed sole administrator, a caveat was attached which prohibits contesting for local government chairmanship, so that one was out of it.
Now, for the House of Assembly, it goes beyond what I can say in an interview but I felt that since I came out for the House of Reps in 2015, why not come and try it again?
Again, in Epe we have three local governments that make up the constituency, and each of the house must go one term, and allow another to go.
So, you’re saying the incumbent has gone for his LGA?
It’s an understanding. One good thing about the whole set up is the absence of godfatherism. It is a good start. We the women are coming out to say let us do our best, let us show our people that we can represent them and progress their interest. We just want to show that we are vibrant, strong, active and full of ideas just as it is in other countries.
She cares so much for children
We understand that there are five of you contesting. What would you say you have or possess that these other persons don’t and would give you an edge?
First of all, they are all my brothers, but what do I have that they don’t? Well, I’m a woman and they are not. Two, I have worked in Victoria Island and people have seen my performance and I think my track record speaks for me. In my hometown, every December 27 is set aside for celebration and bonding. It is mostly centred on the youth because I love them and we have a splendid working relationship. Last year’s edition was awesome.
Much as I am a Christian, we also gather during Ileya festivals and felicitate with one another. I do that in honour of our father, who himself was a Moslem.
I am a contributor to the AMBSAM Memorial Foundation in honour of those who died in the 2015 general elections; about six of them. Presently, we are building a state of the art CPR center at Epe General Hospital. AMBAM is a group that is so dear to my heart, and I made history as the first woman to join the foundation. At the moment, I am the Assistant Secretary. I have done more than these and I think it is time I helped my people better on a higher political level. And that informed my resolve to seek election to the House of Representatives.
Ma, what would you say about this statement “absolute power corrupts absolutely?” All these things you are doing, you did when you didn’t have a lot of power but what is the promise that when you get there, you would keep on being a lover of the people?
I believe so much in foundational knowledge, that is the knowledge and training one acquired during his formative years. In essence, if all the time I had been here and I have not been corrupted, I doubt if I would ever be. I am very open to people, and will never change that stance.
Okay ma. What we are saying is that people make promises when going for positions, but when they finally get there, they forget everything
I am not wired that way. Remember, I have been a Sole Administrator before so I understand these things but that is not my attitude. I am a people oriented individual. What I want is to always bring the best out of people at all times. Coming out is not a do-or-die affair. If God says yes, who can say no? If I win, I am not going to be arrogant. I was in Victoria Island and you know it is one of the moneymaking hubs in Lagos State but I wasn’t rude or proud. I had an opendoor policy and people could come into my office and talk to me.
I would continue to look after myself with prayer, ask God for wisdom, knowledge and understanding and pray he guides and directs my steps.
By Eric Elezuo
The tears were palpable. The grief was tangible, and emotions ran high as the 41 years old, Philip Neilson Charles Taylor Jr, son of former President of Liberia, Charles Ghankay Taylor, and former Vice President of Liberia, Jewel Howard-Taylor, was laid to rest in Monrovia, Liberia.
The events, which gathered and reunited the best of Liberian elites, spanned an activity-filled four days, creating an atmosphere of united-in-grief.
With two former presidents, Mrs Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Dr. George Opong Weah, joining the incumbent president, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, in solidarity with the parents of the deceased, who also were top executive members of government at different levels and different times, the atmosphere was quickly charged with the colours of Liberia, and the tears of a nation greatly bereaved.
Born on September 2, 1984, the young Charles Taylor lived till January 20, 2026, when he succumbed to a respiratory ailment at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia, Liberia. He was aged 41, and survived by his mum and dad, and five children among brothers and sisters, uncles and aunts, and other relatives. He was the only child of his mum, Mrs. Howard-Taylor.
He was a graduate of Political Science from the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences of the African Methodist Episcopal University, and a recipient of many awards, cutting across orthodox, academic and social cares.
The funeral obsequies kicked off in earnest on Wednesday at the County Administrative Building Gbarnga City, Bong County, Liberia, where dignitaries gathered to eulogise life and times in what appeared to be a Service of Songs and Tributes, in addition to Lying-in-State of the beloved of the son, after the initial removal from A. Stryker Funeral Home. The body three other stops at diverse locations before returning.
Conducted by General Overseer & Founder
Peace Praise Full Gospel Church, Apostle Dr. Lucy C. H. Bulgar, with the theme, “THE GRAVE AWAITS YOU”, the solemn dovetailed into sections of quiet eulogy, praises, songs and special presentations.
Taking his text from II Corinthians 5: 10, which says For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad, and Hebrews 9: 27, which says, And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, Apostle Bulgar led the congregation through redecorating themselves to God as death is inevitable.
With Life Reflections of deceased read by his son, Charles Ghankay Taylor IV, the floor was opened for high profile tributes by the Liberian President, Vice President, Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, former presidents Sirleaf and Weah, the National 55th Legislature, Chairman, Ovation Media Group and former Presidential Candidate, Chief Dele Momodu, Founder, African Women Leadership Organization, Hon. Elisha Attai.
Tributes were also received from major political parties; The National Patriotic Party of Liberia and The Mighty Congress for Democratic Chang as well as from churches, institutions, organisations, members of the immediate and extended families and his children.
Below are excerpts of the memorial tributes from the deceased’s parents:
A MOTHER’S MEMORIAL TRIBUTE BY JEWEL HOWARD-TAYLOR
My beloved son,
Philip Neilson Charles Taylor
There are no words strong enough to describe the pain of standing here today. No mother is ever prepared to say goodbye to her only child. You were my heart walking outside my body, my greatest blessing, and my deepest love.
Philip, from the moment you came into my life, you changed everything. You gave me purpose beyond measure and a love so pure it reshaped my soul. You were my joy in quiet moments, my pride in your growth, and my comfort in times when life felt overwhelming.
Your smile carried warmth. Your presence brought peace. Your spirit carried gentleness and strength all at once. You were thoughtful, kind, and full of promise. You loved deeply, and you were deeply loved. Losing you has left a space that nothing on this earth can fill.
As your mother, my heart is broken. There are days when the grief feels unbearable, when the silence where your laughter once lived feels too heavy to carry. Yet even in this pain, I remain grateful to God for the gift of you for every moment, every memory, every embrace, and every lesson you unknowingly taught me about love, patience, and faith.
Though your life on this earth was far too short, your impact was lasting. You mattered. You were seen. You were cherished. And you will never be forgotten. Philip, I release you now into God’s eternal arms, trusting that you are at peace, free from pain, resting in divine light. While I must walk this journey without you by my side, I carry you forever in my heart. Sleep on, my precious son.
Rest in eternal peace.
Until the day we meet again.
– Mama –
A FATHER’S TRIBUTE TO HIS SON BY CHARLES GHANKAY TAYLOR I
A TRIBUTE IN PRAYER FROM FORMER PRESIDENT H. E. DAHKPANHAN DR. CHARLES GHANKAY TAYLOR I, ON THE OCCASION OF THE LOST OF HIS BELOVED SON, PHILIP NEILSON CHARLES TAYLOR.
As we gather here today to celebrate the life of my son, Philip Neilsen Charles Taylor, let us begin with thanksgiving and blessing to the Most High God- the King of the Universe – the righteous Judge who is true and perfect in all His works. For all His ways are justice. He is a God of faithfulness, without iniquity, righteous and fair, and we thank Him for the blessings He bestowed upon Philip during his sojourn on this earth.
Now, let us bless the Lord our God. Blessed are You, O Lord my God, King of the Universe.
I thank You, the God of my forefathers, forever and ever. You are the Rock of my life and the Shield of my salvation from generation to generation. You are the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. You give us life, and You uphold us to continue to do Your will and to serve You wholeheartedly. Amen and Amen.
Philip… Philip…
Your father cannot be here today to say goodbye to you personally as you journey onward to your eternal home. But he has sent your sister, Charen Zally, to read these words so that you may know what is in his heart:
“My son, I love you. There were rocky and difficult steps along the way, but life itself is a battle. As you travel on, let not your soul be troubled. Your mother and I now release you into the infinite mercy and perfect will of the Lord God.
We forgive you for any time you may have angered us or sinned against us whether against our property, our honor, or in any way whether accidentally, carelessly, or intentionally; whether through speech, deed, thought, or intention; whether in this life or beyond. We forgive you fully.
May it be the will of the Lord our God and the God of our forefathers that whatever sins you may have committed before Him, may He, in His great mercy, forgive you, cleanse you, and receive your soul in peace.”
O God our Father, we plea that you blot out his transgressions in Your abundant mercies, but not through suffering as he journeys to Your eternal world. Amen.
Philip, our dearly beloved son, was a blessed young man. His father, Dr. Charles Ghankay Taylor, served as President of this glorious and blessed nation. His mother, Honorable Jewel Howard-Taylor, also served as Vice President at a different period, with great honor and distinction.
We bless God that Philip was given to us for a season and has now been summoned home to be with Him.
He is in a better place. And so, we are not here today to mourn without hope. I do not question the quality of the judgment of Almighty God.
Who can say to God, “What are You doing?” No one.
For God alone rules above and below. He gives life and permits death; He brings down to the grave and raises up.
O Most High God, You are righteous. You gave Philip to us, and You have taken him back. Blessed be Your holy name.
With righteousness in Your right hand and correction in Your left, You judge Your creation.
We accept Your judgment for you are the knower of all mysteries and keeper of all secrets.
And now O God our Rock, we plead for mercy. Do not set our iniquities before You.
O God, Relent your anger concerning us, Your servants. Let not our trespasses bring separation between You and us.
Have mercy on the remnant of our family, the flock of Your hand.
And say to the angel of death, “Hold back your hand.”
O God in your infinite mercy, show us your mercy and kindness, and do not erase our memory from before your throne.
To you alone we honor and glorify in Jesus precious name.
Amen.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, this is not a sight any parent should ever have to see.
It is a very, very bitter pill to swallow.
This pain is deep.
It is personal.
My grief is sharper because of many variables surrounding this loss.
I know that perhaps millions of people-here at home, in the diaspora, and across our world-have experienced this kind of sudden flood of unanticipated emotion and though I am not easily moved to tears, I must admit that I am overcome with deep grief.
It hurts. Yes, it truly hurts.
For Parents are not meant to bury the fruit of their own loins. It should be the other way around.
Yet God understands this mystery. He is just. He knows best.
To our families, I say: let us celebrate his life, because God alone knows the absolute truth about His creation. We, as human beings, understand only relative truth through our finite minds.
And perhaps more importantly, we must realize that Philip is not “dead,” but has been born into a new life with Almighty God.
Death, in its deepest sense, is not the end-even in the relative sense.
He is now journeying to higher planes of existence for ages upon ages. The universe is our home, and before the end of time, we will explore its farthest reaches.
Even now, we dwell within the infinite mind of Almighty God, and our possibilities remain infinite both in time and in space.
And at the end of the grand cycle of the ages, God will gather us unto Himself. Then we shall know the whole truth-the truth of being at one with Him.
Philip will be there. And we will meet again.
And I say to Jewel: we loved Philip deeply, but God loved him more and has called him home. Rest in your faith that it is well.
To Philip’s children, his brothers and sisters, his aunts, cousins, nieces, and all his extended family: I assure you that he is safe and protected with the Almighty – the “Knower of All Mysteries.”
In moments like this, we must examine ourselves in quiet retrospection. Reflection is necessary as we try to understand this great mystery of life and death. As it is often said: the past is a statement; the future is a question.
In closing, on behalf of our bereaved families all of them and in my own name, I extend heartfelt thanks; to the President of our nation, President Joseph Boakai and his family; members of his government; former officials of government, bishops, pastors, deacons, laymen and laywomen; the Imam and members of the Muslim community; our chiefs, elders, zoes, and our ancient ancestors the custodians of the land; and all the people of our unique Liberia, our “coat of many colors.”
We also thank nationals of foreign lands and members of the diplomatic community for their expressions of sympathy and condolences in this time of profound grief.
Shalom.
Rest in peace, Phil.
Rise in glory.
May flights of angels sing you to your rest.
Amen.
A TRIBUTE: WE CELEBRATE A UNIQUE AND EXTRAORDINARY SON – CHIEF DELE MOMODU
Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen. Due to time constraints, please, permit me to stand on already established protocols.
I have come from Nigeria to join families and friends of the TAYLORS OF LIBERIA, not to mourn and inter CHARLES TAYLOR JR., but to celebrate their unique and extraordinary son, an only child of my very dear friend and Sister, former Vice President, DR JEWEL HOWARD-TAYLOR, one of Africa’s most notable leaders of the 21st century.
In our grief, let’s not forget to thank God for this special gift. At 42, Charles has succeeded in reuniting the wonderful people of Liberia. Look around this gathering and see the array of the creme de la creme of society, the rich, the poor, there’s no discrimination. We are all one held together by Almighty God. That is the privilege Charles has granted us on this auspicious day. On a personal note, it has taken Charles to bring me back, the Kiazolu of Grand Cape Mount County, to Monrovia.
Let me leave this congregation with a food for thought. In celebrating Charles, let’s remember the popular Yoruba adage which tells us that the death that takes away our neighbours and contemporaries is only
reminding us that our own will come, sooner or later. The reason we must all make the world a better place…
Thank you and God bless the Republic of Liberia.
SHORTLY before the end of the service, the father of the deceased made a special of a song with the title, “Hold back the Night”, and which was rendered by a A joint assembly of the New Life Mission Choir and, The National Evangelical Mass Choir of Liberia.
The congregation was thereafter permitted to view the remains of Philip Neilson as the service came to an end.
The funeral rites continued the next day at Peace Praise Gospel Ministries, Barnesville Township, Montserrado County, Liberia, where the congregation erupted in more songs and tribute to the memory of the deceased.
On the night of the same day, a Wake Service was organised at the Harvest International Cathedral, Tubman Blvd., Congo Town, Monrovia, Liberia.
The remains of Philip Neilson were finally committed to mother-earth after a funeral service at the Harvest International Cathedral, Tubman Blvd., Congo Town, in Monrovia, Liberia, with close family members and friends in attendance, and conducted by His Eminence Archbishop Nicolas Duncan-Williams, of the African Chapel International, Accra, Ghana, and supported by other eminent spiritual leaders including Archbishop Isaac A. Winker of the Isaac Winker Global Ministeries International.
Philip Neilson was buried at the Shiata Flowers and Vaults Cemetery, Lower Careysburg, Monrovia.
Charles Taylor Jr may have died, and been buried, but his death has become a unifying force for the Liberians as the crème de la crème of the nation were brought together irrespective of political alienation or differences, as one indivisible people.
By Eric Elezuo
The idea behind one of Nigeria’s elevated private higher institution of learning, the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) is not only humongous, but filled with classy intentions, beautiful landscape, and professionalism in tutelage and character molding.
A visit to this great citadel of learning is not a one day affair, cause no one can see ABUAD in One day; not even in one week, one month or a year, as this reporter can attest to. ABUAD is huge. ABUAD is large. ABUAD is an institution beyond the literary definition. ABUAD is a dream projected to last a lifetime, and it has not failed to live up to billing.
Navigating through the bustling streets of Ado-Ekiti via the centre of Ekiti Parapo Arena, and into the gracious Olusegun Obasanjo Way enroute Aye Ekiti, the institution is situated at an altitude of over 1,500 feet, and located on a 130-hectare piece of land; large enough to birth a kingdom, and accommodate whatever facility dreamt of.
The Boss learnt that the institution was established to address the mismatch between academic programmes and the demands of the labour market in Nigeria.
Established in 2009, in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, by a distinguished legal icon, academic pillar and seasoned entrepreneur, Prof Afe Babalola, ABUAD has distinguished itself as a force to reckon with in the fields of research and training, developing and churning out creative minds, who have constituting a megaforce in global development.
By the benefit of hindsight, the University offers Academic programmes in seven Colleges: Sciences, Law, Engineering, Social and Management Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Pharmacy and Postgraduate Studies. Beyond the academic ratings, ABUAD boasts of the very best of facilities for health, recreation, environmental, electricity, agriculture and more. It is also a centre of academic discipline with academic and non-academic staff of repute, whose stock-in-trade remain the production of all-round, well-tutored and easy-to-fit personality.
The institution is managed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof Smaranda Olarinde, which academic and administrative catalogue is quiet envious to behold.
By every standard, the institution merits its Time Higher Education (THE) Impact ranking as at 2025 as the 84th in the world, 3rd in Africa and 1st in Nigeria. Great feat!
The Engineering College, one of the foremost architectural intelligence on the ABUAD land, is built on three and half acres of land, and is reputed to be one of the largest in Africa. The college was inaugurated by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Campuses
Admission requirement
The admission requirement for the school varies between the different colleges. However, as with all Nigerian universities, for undergraduate programs the candidate is required to have at least 5 credits in subjects such as mathematics, English language and any other three subjects that are relevant to the course of study. The student is required to have passed the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), after which the candidate is expected to take an oral interview with an academic staff of the prospective college before admission can be given. The university also offers direct entry admission to students who wish to transfer from another university or have undergone either an Advanced Level program or a degree foundation program. The level at which they are admitted into is decided by the college and varies among them.
Undergraduate colleges
The university operates a collegiate system and has six major colleges. They are the College of Engineering, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, College of Sciences, College of Law, College of Social and Management Sciences, and College of Pharmacy. Some of the colleges offer post graduate programme in some departments.
The College of Law
The College of Law is fully accredited by the National University Commission (NUC) of Nigeria. The college consists of fully furnished classrooms, a common room, a library containing law journals and articles, and a moot court for students to have court practice sessions. There are a number of student chambers in the college backed by a staff mentor who battle against each other in moot court sessions. Associate Prof. Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde (FCAI) is the pioneer provost of the college of Law and is still the current provost of the college; she is also the acting vice chancellor of the university. The College of Law, which is regarded as one of the best law colleges in Nigeria, offers both undergraduate and post-graduate degrees (master’s level) in law.
The College of Engineering
The college of engineering was accredited by both the NUC and COREN during their one-week visit to the college. The main engineering building which houses laboratories, a central engineering library, lecturer rooms, an auditorium, a central engineering workshop and a certified Festo training center. The engineering building is named after the former Nigerian president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and was commissioned by him on 20 October 2013 during the university’s first convocation ceremony. Prof. Israel Esan Owolabi served as the pioneer provost of the college of engineering; he stepped down from the post in 2015 and he is currently engaged in teaching activities in the electrical/electronics engineering programme.
Academic programs
- B.Eng. Mechanical Engineering
- B.Eng. Mechatronic Engineering
- B.Eng. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- B.Eng. Petroleum Engineering
- B.Eng. Civil Engineering
- B.Eng. Chemical Engineering
- B.Eng. Computer Engineering
- B.Eng. Agricultural Engineering
- B.Eng. Biomedical Engineering
- B.Eng. Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
The College of Sciences
The College of Sciences is one of the pioneer colleges of the university after the university’s approval by the Nigerian University Commission (NUC). The university admitted students at inception on 4 January 2010.
Academic programs
- B.Sc. Microbiology
- B.Sc. Human Biology
- B.Sc. Biotechnology
- B.Sc. Biochemistry
- B.Sc. Chemistry
- B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry
- B.Sc. Computer Science
- B.Sc. Geology.
- B.Sc. Physics with Electronics
- B.Sc. Physics
- B.Sc. Petroleum Chemistry
- B.Arch Architecture
The College of Social and Management Sciences
At inception, on 4 January 2010 the university admitted students into the College of Social and Management Sciences, being one of the pioneer colleges of the university. The session ran smoothly without hitches from 4 January to August 2010. The second session of the university started on October 4, 2010, with over 1,000 students. So far the, university has maintained strict compliance with its academic calendar which makes it possible for students to pre-determine their possible date of completion of their programmes even before enrolment. It has been the policy of the university to post on-line students’ results within 24hours of approval by the Senate.
Academic programs
- B.Sc. Economics
- B.Sc. Accounting
- B.Sc. Banking and Finance
- B.Sc. Business Administration
- B.Sc. Tourism and Events Management.
- B.Sc. Political Science
- B.Sc. International Relations and Diplomacy
- B.Sc. Peace and Conflict Studies
- B.Sc. Intelligence and Security Studies
- B.Sc. Social Justice
- B.Sc. Communication and Media Studies
- B.Sc. Marketing
- B.Sc. Entrepreneurship
- B.Sc. Sociology
The College of Medicine and Health Sciences
The college commenced activities in October 2011 having been approved by National Universities Commission.
Academic programs
- Medicine and Surgery (M.B.B.S)
- B.NSc. Nursing Sciences
- B.MLS. Medical Laboratory Science
- B.Sc. Anatomy
- B.Sc. Physiology
- B.Sc. Human Nutrition and Dietetics
- B.Sc. Pharmacology
- B.Sc. Public Health
- Pharm.D Pharmacy
- B.DS. Dentistry
- OD. Optometry
The College of Arts and Humanities
Academic programs
- B. A. Performing Arts
- B. A. English
- B. A. History and International Studies
- B. A. Linguistics
The College of Agriculture
Academic programs
- B. Agric. Animal Science
- B. Agric. Agricultural Economics
- B. Agric. Extension Education
- B. Agric. Crop Science
- B. Agric. Soil Science
Postgraduate college
The university operates a collegiate system and has five major Postgraduate colleges. They are the College of Engineering, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, College of Sciences, College of Law and College of Social and Management Sciences.
ABUAD INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT
To harness thorough academic and character building, the institution is operated off the national grid as it is run on its own power project, with a dam that powers its electrical needs.
HEALTH AND AGRICULTURE
ABUAD operates of the best medical schools and facilities in the country as it boasts of almost all equipment, space and atmosphere for sundry medical conditions, with reputable medical personnel to complement the environment.
In the vein, the institution runs a developed farming culture, that accommodates rearing of livestock and production of cash and food crops.
The farm sits on a large expanse of loamy soil, complimented with consistent flow of irrigation and drainage, and maintained with the classic of horticulture. The settlement is run by a team of professionals made up of Agroeconomists, horticulturist and more.
It is also worth knowing that the school has its Cassava Processing Factory just as it operates a self sustaining Carbonated Drink Factory.
ABUAD practically offers everything!
ABUAD’S FOUNDER, AARE AFE BABALOLA
Born in 1929, Aare Afe Babalola SAN is one of the most distinguished legal luminaries of his generation, renowned both in Africa and globally for his profound contributions to the legal profession and the advancement of education. With over five decades of uninterrupted legal practice, Aare Babalola’s career is a testament to exceptional dedication, strategic advocacy, and visionary leadership.
A highly accomplished advocate, he has led some of the most celebrated cases in Nigerian legal history, representing high-profile clients, including government institutions, multinational corporations, and individuals. His advocacy spans domestic and international courts, including contributions as a consultant to the Federal Government of Nigeria, World Bank, and various conglomerates. His extensive experience includes his role in arbitration, both locally and internationally, where he remains a respected authority. Aare Babalola has appeared in numerous landmark cases, shaping Nigerian jurisprudence and establishing himself as one of the nation’s most formidable legal minds.
His influence goes beyond the courtroom. As the Founder of Afe Babalola & Co. (Emmanuel Chambers), one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, Aare Babalola has trained over 300 lawyers, including 14 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), judges, and attorneys-general, making his chambers one of the most significant contributors to the legal profession in Nigeria. His exceptional litigation skills and legal acumen earned him the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987, cementing his place at the pinnacle of legal practice in the country.
A renowned scholar and author, Aare Babalola has authored several authoritative legal texts, including Injunctions and Enforcement of Orders and Law and Practice of Evidence in Nigeria. His contributions to legal education extend to teaching at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and delivering lectures at prestigious universities such as the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan. His popular column, YOU AND THE LAW, published in the Nigerian Tribune, reflects his commitment to educating the public on legal matters.
Beyond his legal practice, Aare Babalola has made extraordinary strides in education. His experience as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (2001-2007) exposed him to the declining standards of education in Nigeria, spurring him to establish Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
ABUAD has quickly become a beacon of academic excellence, setting new standards in Nigeria’s educational system. His efforts in education have been recognized globally, with numerous honorary degrees from universities, including the University of London, University of Lagos, and Ekiti State University.
Aare Babalola’s leadership in academia and law has earned him numerous accolades, including the Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), and international recognition such as the Queen Victoria Commemorative Award at the Socrates Awards in Oxford, UK. He was named Africa Man of the Year on Food Security and awarded an Honorary Doctor of Management by the Federal University of Technology, Akure. His groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire generations of lawyers and leaders across Africa and beyond.
In addition to his legal and educational contributions, Aare Babalola remains a committed philanthropist and advocate for reform in various sectors. His vast experience, unmatched expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him not only a legal icon but also a trailblazer in the fight for quality education and justice.
Key Achievements:
- Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), 1987.
- Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).
- Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
- Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Lagos (2001-2007).
- Founder and Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
- Queen Victoria Commemorative Award winner, Oxford UK.
- Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
- Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of London, Ekiti State University, University of Lagos, and more
ABUAD is a legacy, just like its Founder, Afe Babalola SAN.
Photos: Ben Osei and Ken Ehimen
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