From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin, Mr Kunle Akogun, has received another honour from his home community, with the Oke-Ode Elite Youth Development Forum (OEYDF), recognising his contributions to peace, education and community development.
Akogun was honoured recently at the Igbomina House, Ganmo, barely a month after receiving a similar recognition from the University of Ilorin Chapter of the Igbomina National Students Union (INSU).
The event attracted traditional rulers, academics, journalists, professionals, friends and family members, among other dignitaries.
The Elesa of Oke-Ode Land, HRH Oba Mufutau Ibrahim Akanbi Adebayo, Ilufemiloye I, described Akogun, who is a member of the Oke-Ode Traditional Council (Elesa-in-Council), as a worthy ambassador of the community whose life exemplifies hard work, integrity and patriotism.
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The monarch said the award was a recognition of Akogun’s dedication, impactful service and commitment to humanity, noting that his influence had extended beyond Oke-Ode.
According to him, Akogun’s contributions “have inspired many” and remained significant to the community’s pursuit of greatness and all-round development.
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the ceremony, Akogun said being honoured by his own people was particularly meaningful to him.
“Nothing could bring a patriot more happiness than being recognised and honoured by his people,” he said.
The veteran journalist noted that it was increasingly uncommon in contemporary society for people who are neither political office holders nor wealthy individuals to be recognised for their contributions to community development.
He explained that his efforts towards the development of his ancestral community were never motivated by the expectation of receiving awards or other forms of recognition.
Rather, he said, his involvement was driven by the desire to give back to the community that played a significant role in making him who he is today.
Akogun expressed appreciation to the organisers for considering him worthy of the honour, promising to continue contributing his quota to the development of Oke-Ode, Nigeria and humanity.
Among those who attended the ceremony were the General Manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM, Mr Idris Ibrahim; Deputy Editor of the UNILORIN Bulletin, Mr Abubakar Imam; Kwara State Correspondent of The Punch, Mr Tunde Oyekola; as well as relations, friends and colleagues of the award recipient from within and outside the community.
