Whenever the contemporary history of the struggle for the creation of Ekiti state is chronicled, Aare Afe Babalola’s name would readily come up for recognition because of his heroic efforts. The affirmation was made during a courtesy visit to the Founder and president Emeritus of ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola by the Utility Committee of Ekiti State Council of Obas.
Led by its Chairman, His Royal Majesty Oba Oyebade , the Ologotun of Ogotun Ekiti, he described Aare as an Icon of progress and development in Ekiti state whose rare philanthropy cannot be undermined but endeared himself to well-meaning citizens of the State.
He lauded Aare’s qualities of hard work, perseverance, relentlessness and untiring pursuit of desirable goals which were the premises on which the creation of Ekiti State hinges.
On education, Oba Oyebade reiterated Aare’s activities and contributions which could not be discountenanced. He specifically mentioned that Aare Afe Babalola single handedly donated an Ultra modern auditorium to the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti and sacrificed time and good portion of his resources to ensure that the Federal Polytechnic was brought to Ado Ekiti.
Responding, Aare Afe Babalola thanked them for the visit and kind words. While wishing them peaceful reigns in their various communities, he called on citizens to fully appreciate the principles of hard work, resilience and discipline as the only strategy for achieving rapid economic growth and social stability.
The Founder of ABUAD urged the visiting Traditional rulers to be agents of positive change by supporting worthy projects and visions that will propel their State to the forefront.
Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of his fellow Obas, Oba (Dr) Adeleye of Ikoro-Ekiti promised their total support for Aare Afe Babalola and his visions and prayed for Aare’s good health and long-life.
Earlier, the traditional rulers had embarked on a guided tour of the University and its farms led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sidi Osho.