The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), on Saturday, March 21, 2026, played host to a cross-section of eminent Nigerians from all walks of life who converged on the institution to celebrate the 87th birthday of elder statesman and former Secretary-General of the pan-Yoruba socio-political and cultural organisation, Afenifere, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa.
The three-in-one celebration featured the presentation of two books—Understanding Afenifere: A Historical Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organisation, written by the celebrant, and a Festschrift titled Seinde Arogbofa: A Quintessential Role Model, compiled and edited by Professor William Olu-Aderoumu and co-edited by Comrade Jare Ajayi. The occasion was capped with his investiture as a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).
Setting the tone for the celebration, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, described Arogbofa as one of the leading lights of educational development in Nigeria and a patriot par excellence. He portrayed him as a towering figure whose life embodies intellectual depth, moral authority, and enduring relevance in public service.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to society, noting that Arogbofa’s life transcends mere longevity and represents a body of work that has shaped political, cultural, and moral thought. “At this age, we are not merely celebrating the passage of time, but honouring a life that has become an institution in itself,” he said, adding that the elder statesman occupies a prominent place in the history of the Yoruba people.
The Governor further noted that Arogbofa’s years of service, including his role as Secretary-General in a socio-political movement, exemplify loyalty, discipline, and institutional memory—qualities essential for the sustainability of any movement. “For decades, he has demonstrated that public life can be principled, that activism can be refined by intellect, and that leadership can be firm without bitterness,” he stated.
He added that the ANA Fellowship investiture was a fitting recognition not only of Arogbofa’s literary contributions but also of his role in shaping enduring ideas and narratives. The Governor described elders like Arogbofa as part of the “moral infrastructure” of the state, noting that their presence serves as a check on leadership and governance. “Systems thrive when there are voices of conscience. Governments remain grounded when there are elders whose counsel is guided by principle and enriched by history,” he said.
The Chairman of the occasion and former Minister of Defence, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode (SAN), said the event was organised to celebrate works to which the celebrant had devoted his life. He emphasised that Arogbofa’s lifestyle offers valuable lessons to younger generations, challenging them to cultivate the habit of reading and writing.
According to him, the octogenarian’s book on Afenifere provides much-needed clarity on the organisation’s identity and purpose, opening new vistas for it to expand its scope and become more dynamic. Kayode stated: “Anyone who understands Afenifere will appreciate that it is a huge compendium of history, background, and evolution. He has summarised it and given us a clearer perspective. Afenifere’s role is to ensure that Yoruba culture and ethos do not fade away.”
The Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, acknowledged the importance of leaders engaging with the community. She noted that leadership goes beyond individual achievements to encompass collective growth and learning. She commended Basorun Arogbofa’s willingness to share his experiences and wisdom, encouraging attendees to seek his counsel while appealing for his continued support for the university and the wider community.
Also speaking, the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, described Arogbofa as a leader whose candour, forthrightness, and patriotic zeal should be emulated by future generations.
In his remarks during the book review, former Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Professor Femi Mimiko—represented by the Vice-Chancellor of Sam Maris University, Supare-Akoko, Professor Francis Gbore—highlighted the importance of documenting experiences for the benefit of others. He noted that Arogbofa’s books offer valuable insights into Afenifere’s history, leadership, and philosophy, underscoring his commitment to public service. He further emphasised the organisation’s evolution, leadership selection process, and key decisions as evidence of its role as a pan-Yoruba socio-political body committed to unity and structured leadership.
In his response, Basorun Arogbofa expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it not as an incentive but as a testament to his life’s work. He thanked the ANA Ondo State Chapter and its national body, led by National President Dr. Usman Akanbi, who performed the investiture, for the honour. He also appreciated the efforts of the Planning Committee, chaired by Professor Bayo Aborisade, for organising the event.
He acknowledged the support of various associations, including VICOSA, ANCOPSS, and the UI Alumni Association, which have played significant roles in his journey. Arogbofa humbly accepted the honour, noting the weight of expectations that come with it, and expressed appreciation to the FUTA community for their hospitality.
He encouraged readers to continue patronising his works, emphasising the importance of reading and writing, and praised the editors of the Festschrift for their tireless efforts in producing a remarkable collection of essays that reflect his life and achievements.
In his closing remarks, Professor Bayo Aborisade, Chairman of the Organising Committee, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all distinguished guests for their presence and support. He particularly acknowledged the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, whose presence underscored the significance of the occasion, and commended everyone for contributing to the successful launch of the books—a fitting tribute to Basorun Arogbofa’s remarkable life and contributions to Nigerian literature and socio-political development.
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