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Reviving the Literary Soul at Nigeria’s “Great Ife”

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By Shakirat Titilope Akintola

In an era where digital distraction has become a global epidemic, a historic movement to reclaim the power of the written word took center stage at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). On Wednesday, 22nd April 2026, the iconic Oduduwa Hall was packed to capacity for “LIBRARY READING TIME 2026,” an event that served as both a cultural revival and a masterclass in intellectual heritage.

Organized by the Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library, the colloquium brought together international media icons and traditional royalty to address a universal challenge: the survival of deep reading in the age of “information overload.”

A Homecoming of Global Influence

The spotlight of the event shone on Aare Dele Momodu, Chairman of Ovation Media Group and a figure synonymous with African excellence on the global stage. For Momodu, the day was a profound full-circle moment. Before the formal ceremonies, he toured the stacks of the university library where, decades ago, he served as a humble library attendant.

“My journey started through the window of this library,” Momodu reflected in an interview with Great 94.5FM. Addressing the massive audience, Momodu expressed his immense joy at seeing the hall overflowing with so many young people, noting that their presence was a powerful signal that the thirst for knowledge remains alive in the next generation.

To catalyze this growth, Momodu announced a major philanthropic contribution, donating LED Projectors to modernize the library’s infrastructure and copies of his acclaimed books, Pendulum 1 & 2 and Fighting Lions.

The Scholar-King: Bridging Tradition and Modernity

In a display of the unique intersection between African tradition and academic excellence, the event honored His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Adedokun Omoniyi Aroyinkeye I, the Orangun of Oke-Ila.

As a distinguished alumnus of the university, the “Scholar-King” received the Friend of the Library Excellence Award. His Majesty is widely recognized beyond Nigeria’s borders for founding Abolarin College, a landmark tuition-free boarding school dedicated entirely to indigent children. His presence served as a reminder that the ultimate goal of literacy is societal transformation and the empowerment of the underserved.

Textured Narratives: From Agriculture to Pop Culture

The event featured a diverse “Reading Time” session that demonstrated the interdisciplinary necessity of the library:

●      Science & Sustainability: The Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture read from Agricultural Extension for Sustainable Development, highlighting the practical application of research.

●      The Arts as a Sanctuary: The Dean of the Faculty of Arts delivered a poignant reading titled “The Library is Faculty of Arts. No Walls Needed,” reinforcing the library as a space of boundless creativity.

The emotional crescendo arrived when Aare Dele Momodu took to the lectern as the Guest Reader. He chose to read a deeply moving tribute he authored in 2009 following the death of Michael Jackson. By dissecting the tragic “grace to grass” narrative of a global icon, Momodu illustrated that reading is not just about facts—it is about developing the empathy and “human-interest” lens needed to understand the complexities of the human condition.

A Legacy for the Future

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, and the University Librarian, Dr. Olukemi Adebimpe Fadehan, emphasized that the library remains a “sanctuary where curiosity is nurtured.”

To ensure the day’s momentum survives the closing ceremony, the university officially inaugurated the H.O. Library Club. This initiative aims to foster a sustainable community of bibliophiles among the thousands of students who filled the hall.

As the “Great Ife” anthem echoed through the venue, the message to the world was clear: in the heart of West Africa, the next generation of leaders is being forged not just through screens, but through the timeless, transformative power of books.

Shakirat Titilope Akintola is a Youth Corps member serving with the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Ibadan 

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Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

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The Dominican University, Ibadan, has paid glowing tribute to its Pro-Chancellor and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to education, youth development and national progress continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

In a goodwill message issued on Sunday, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Jacinta Opara, lauded Obi’s enduring passion for quality education, noting that his consistent investments in human capital and advocacy for educational excellence have strengthened institutions and offered hope to young people across the country.

According to Opara, Obi has, through his public service and private engagements, remained a steadfast champion of education, making it a cornerstone of his vision for national development.

She said his words, actions and unwavering support for learning had reinforced the conviction that education remains the most effective instrument for building a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable society.

The university also expressed appreciation for Obi’s contributions to the institution as Pro-Chancellor, describing his leadership, generosity and guidance as instrumental to its growth and development.

The statement noted that under his stewardship, Dominican University has continued to pursue academic excellence while remaining committed to its mission of producing morally upright and globally competitive graduates.

It read in part: “As a university founded a decade ago on the rich 800-year educational heritage of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), we remain profoundly grateful for your visionary leadership, generous support and invaluable contributions as our Pro-Chancellor.”

The institution joined family members, associates and well-wishers in celebrating Obi’s milestone, praying for continued good health, wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he continues to advocate good governance, human dignity, hope and national development.

The message, signed by the Vice-Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s pride in its association with Obi, whose dedication to education, integrity and selfless service, it said, continues to leave a lasting impact on the nation and inspire future generations.

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Ooni of Ife Loses Elder Brother Prince Adetunji

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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has announced the passing of his immediate elder brother, Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi.

The monarch made the announcement in a statement released on Sunday through the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal.

Describing the late prince as a respected businessman and compassionate leader, the Ooni said Prince Adetunji lived a life dedicated to service, humility and the wellbeing of others.

According to the statement, the death of Prince Adetunji has left a deep void in the Ogunwusi family, the Ojaja Royal Dynasty and the entire Ile-Ife Kingdom.

Prince Adetunji, who was born on December 8, 1967, was a member of the Ojaja lineage of the Giesi Ruling House in Ile-Ife. He was also the Group Chairman of Primewaterview Holdings, where he earned recognition for his contributions to business development and entrepreneurship.

The Ooni noted that his late brother built a reputation as an innovative entrepreneur and visionary leader. Through his business activities, he created opportunities for many people and contributed to economic growth in different sectors.

The monarch further stated that beyond his achievements in business, Prince Adetunji was known for his generosity, kindness and commitment to humanitarian causes. He was said to have quietly supported many individuals and families, offering assistance, guidance and encouragement whenever needed.

The statement added that Prince Adetunji’s influence extended beyond the corporate world, as he remained deeply connected to his roots and maintained a strong interest in the progress and development of Ile-Ife and its people.

The Ooni described his late brother as a dependable adviser, a loving family member and a man whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

Family members, friends, associates and well wishers have continued to pay tribute to the late prince, remembering him for his humility, wisdom and positive impact on society.

The palace said further details regarding funeral arrangements and other ceremonies would be announced by the family in due course.

Prince Adetunji’s death marks a significant loss to the royal family and the people of Ile-Ife, who will remember him for his service, leadership and dedication to humanity.

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Harakati Za Holds Pan-African Conference on Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms, Regional Integration in Accra

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More than 200 delegates from across Africa are expected to converge in Accra on July 24, 2026, for an international conference on “Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms and Integration for Sustainable Development in Africa.”

The conference, organised by Harakati Za Muungano, will take place at the GNAT Hall and will bring together policymakers, academics, business leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, youth leaders and development partners to explore practical solutions for accelerating Africa’s development through deeper regional integration.

Harakati Za Muungano, a Swahili phrase meaning “Union Movement,” is a pan-African movement committed to promoting African unity, economic transformation and governance reforms that support sustainable development.

The organisation believes that Africa’s vast human and natural resources can only be fully harnessed through stronger regional cooperation, enhanced intra-African trade and governance systems that place the continent’s long-term development at the centre of public policy.

Since its establishment in November 2023, the movement has expanded its operations to 17 African countries, engaging governments, regional institutions, traditional leaders, professionals, youth groups and community organisations.

Its work focuses on policy advocacy, research, civic engagement and humanitarian initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development, strengthening regional cooperation and encouraging reforms that improve the quality of life of Africans.

The conference will provide a platform for participants to deliberate on critical issues affecting the continent, including constitutional reforms, economic restructuring, regional market integration, industrialisation, governance continuity and sustainable financing models for development.

Organisers expect the discussions to produce practical recommendations that can inform policy decisions at both national and regional levels.

A major focus of the conference will be the movement’s vision of a more integrated Sub-Saharan Africa where barriers to trade and movement are reduced, economic collaboration is strengthened and governments adopt policies that encourage long-term planning, investment and shared prosperity.

The organisation believes that greater integration will unlock new opportunities for businesses, create jobs, promote industrial growth and enhance Africa’s global competitiveness.

Organisers say the conference represents an important opportunity for African leaders and stakeholders to collectively examine bold and innovative approaches to the continent’s future.

With over 200 delegates expected from across the continent, the event is anticipated to foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen partnerships and advance a shared vision of an economically resilient, politically stable and fully integrated Africa.

-Overseeronline.com

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