Valedictory Lecture: Professor Ogunsanwo Concludes 46 Years of Distinguished Service at OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY
Valedictory Lecture: Professor Ogunsanwo Concludes 46 Years of Distinguished Service at OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY
The Faculty of Science, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, celebrated Professor Babatunde Munir Ogunsanwo as he delivered his valedictory lecture, marking the end of an illustrious 46-year career in academic service.
The lecture, titled “Aílélé But The Beat Goes On,” was held at the OOU Staff Hall, Ago-Iwoye, and attracted academics, traditional rulers, government representatives, family members, friends and former students who gathered to celebrate his remarkable contributions to the university and the academic community.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Olutunde Odetunde, while the citation of the retiring professor was read by Dr Omowunmi Banjo of the Department of Microbiology.
Among the dignitaries present were the Deputy Vice Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Hon. Salami Isiaka Abiodun; the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, HRM Oba Dr Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; HRM Oba Sikuru Adeyiga Adeyilo, the Onirolu of Irolu; Ogun State Commissioner for Environment and President of the Sagamites Club, Hon Ola Oresanya; the Asipa of Egbaland, Rasheed Adisa Raji; and High Chief Agbakin Kunle Owonifari.
Also in attendance were Professor Olu Faboya, Professor Ogunsanwo’s supervisor; former Provost and Chancellor, Professor Biyi Afonja; former Vice-Chancellor and Aare Olúomo of Egbaland, Professor Afolabi Soyede; Dean of Student Affairs, Professor D.K. Oduyale; and former Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Tola Oduyale.
The Vice-Chancellor of OOU, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, who was unable to attend, was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Dipo Olubumeyin, a Professor of Economic History.
Other notable guests included Mr Sammy Ogunjimi, Chief Executive Officer of Codix Holdings Limited.
One of the most touching moments of the occasion was Professor Ogunsanwo’s heartfelt tribute to his wife, Dr Yetunde Olajumoke Ogunsanwo, popularly known as Mrs YOO. Describing her as a “peerless woman, an exceptional wife, an exemplary mother and an incomparable companion,” he acknowledged her love and unwavering support, which he said had enriched his life beyond measure.
In his remarks, Professor Ogunsanwo also recognised individuals he described as the “gladiators” who struggled alongside him to make the university a better institution. Among those acknowledged were Femi Adeyemi, Tayo Omoniyi, Akin Onigbinde, Dr Gbenga Ogunbote and Professor Afolabi Soyede. He equally paid tribute to some of the university’s departed builders, whose contributions remained significant to its growth and development.
In recognition of his years of dedication and commitment to academic service, the Faculty of Science presented him with a send-forth gift. His former students also presented a separate gift in appreciation of his impact on their academic journeys.
The students commended him for his commitment, expressing their appreciation for his guidance and assuring him that he would always remain an important part of their lives, regardless of his retirement.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Acting Chairman of the Faculty of Science Social and Welfare Committee, Dr Comfort Senjobi.
After 46 years of dedicated academic service, Professor Ogunsanwo leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, mentorship, commitment and contributions to the growth of Olabisi Onabanjo University. Although his active years of service have come to an end, the impact of his work and the lives he has influenced will continue to resonate within the academic community.
