Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and legal scholar, Aare Afe Babalola, has been celebrated by constitutional lawyer Professor Mike Ozekhome for his contributions to the legal profession, education and philanthropy as he marks his 97th birthday.

In a tribute titled “Afe Babalola SAN at 97 — The Man and His Lessons,” Ozekhome described the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, as an example of perseverance, humility, integrity and commitment to nation-building.

Ozekhome highlighted Babalola’s rise from a modest background in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, to becoming one of Nigeria’s most prominent legal practitioners and educationists.

He noted that Babalola pursued his education through private study before obtaining qualifications in economics and law. Babalola was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1963 and became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1987.

According to Ozekhome, Babalola’s career demonstrates that a person’s circumstances at birth need not determine the limits of their achievements.

The tribute also highlighted Babalola’s contribution to education through the establishment of Afe Babalola University, which has developed into a major private university in Ekiti State, with investments in healthcare, agriculture and other sectors.

Ozekhome said Babalola’s achievements offer important lessons for young Nigerians, particularly the value of hard work, lifelong learning and turning ideas into practical projects.

He also praised the legal icon’s commitment to mentoring younger professionals, describing humility and the willingness to support others as important qualities of lasting greatness.

Another lesson identified in the tribute was the importance of integrity, with Ozekhome urging young people to prioritise a good reputation over shortcuts to wealth or recognition.

He further encouraged young Nigerians not to abandon their ambitions because of age or delayed opportunities, pointing to Babalola’s establishment of the university later in life as an example of the value of pursuing a vision.

Babalola’s educational journey is documented by Afe Babalola University and other institutions. He studied through correspondence and private study before proceeding to higher education in the United Kingdom, where he obtained qualifications in economics and law.

As part of his birthday message, Ozekhome wished Babalola continued strength and good health, celebrating what he described as a life marked by professional excellence, mentorship and service to humanity.

The tribute concluded with a call for Nigerians, particularly young people, to draw inspiration from Babalola’s determination, commitment to education and efforts to build institutions that serve society.