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Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi Visits Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Hails Founder on Remarkable Journey, Achievements

Published

3 weeks ago

June 28, 2026

Eric

By Shakira Akintola

It was an afternoon of reflection, intellectual exchange and mutual respect at the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre in Ibadan on Saturday as the Vice Chancellor of Baze University, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, paid a courtesy visit to veteran journalist, media entrepreneur and public intellectual, Aare Dele Momodu.

The conversation, which traversed journalism, politics, literature, scholarship and leadership, evolved into a compelling discourse on legacy, with Professor Adeniyi encouraging Momodu to document the wealth of knowledge and experiences he has accumulated over decades of public life.

According to the academic, while many people make an impact during their lifetime, only a few intentionally preserve their ideas for generations yet unborn.

“One of the most difficult things for anybody to do, sir, is to think consistently and put your thoughts down,” Adeniyi observed. “People may leave this world, but their thoughts remain. Even in those days when it was not possible to document ideas the way we do today, generations still found ways to preserve them because of the substance they contained.”

He noted that Momodu’s influence extends beyond journalism and politics, saying his experiences deserve to be captured in books and memoirs that will continue to educate and inspire future generations.

Responding, Momodu reiterated that while politics remains an important aspect of his life, it has never defined the totality of his purpose.

“Politics for me is part-time,” he said. “If you have a voice, then use it well.”

He also reflected on his formative years in Ile-Ife, recalling how growing up in the ancient town exposed him to some of Africa’s greatest literary minds, particularly Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.

“My first encounter with Soyinka was political in nature,” Momodu recalled, explaining how reading the works of renowned African writers helped shape his worldview and deepen his appreciation for literature, public discourse and leadership.

The discussion later shifted to scholarship, with Momodu revealing that he still hopes to pursue a doctoral degree.

“I am hoping to do a PhD one of these days,” he said. “A lot of people say I’m not a journalist anyway, but I try my best to remain a writer, even if not a career journalist.”

While applauding the aspiration, Professor Adeniyi encouraged him to view academic fulfilment beyond the acquisition of certificates.

“I’m not discouraging you from doing a PhD,” he said. “But there are so many routes to it. The reason why you want to do a PhD should not simply be because of the certificate. It should be professional.”

The Vice Chancellor argued that Momodu’s decades of international exposure already constitute a unique body of knowledge that deserves to be documented.

“I was telling your staff when we were going round that you are one of the most travelled Nigerians,” Adeniyi said. “One of the best ways to be educated as a human being is travelling because it is very exposing; it is civilising. You have been exposed to all these opportunities. The plan is not to forget to document them.”

He described Momodu’s remarkable journey—from journalism and publishing to business, diplomacy and public engagement—as an invaluable repository of experiences capable of enriching scholarship and inspiring younger generations if carefully preserved.

Momodu disclosed that he has already begun taking steps in that direction.

“I have someone working on my biography now,” he revealed, drawing an approving response from the Vice Chancellor, who described the decision as timely and significant.

The exchange also underscored the enduring relevance of journalism and ideas in shaping society. Adeniyi praised Momodu’s ability to remain influential across different spheres of national life, while Momodu maintained that the greatest responsibility of anyone blessed with influence is to use it in service of society.

The visit concluded with Momodu expressing appreciation to Professor Adeniyi for making the journey to Ibadan despite the heavy traffic before inviting guests at the Leadership Centre to engage the scholar during an interactive question-and-answer session.

More than a conversation between two accomplished Nigerians, the encounter served as a thoughtful reminder that while achievements may define a lifetime, it is the deliberate preservation of ideas, experiences and lessons that ultimately secures an enduring legacy.

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Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

Published

1 day ago

July 20, 2026

Eric

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

Published

1 day ago

July 20, 2026

Eric

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

Published

2 days ago

July 19, 2026

Eric

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