By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
In a warm display of tradition, academia, and unity, the Executive of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide, led by its Worldwide President, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, paid a courtesy visit today to His Royal Majesty (HRM) Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, The Okukenu IV, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, at his palace in Abeokuta.
Oba Gbadebo, a proud alumnus of the University of Ibadan and a respected member of the UIAA Board of Trustees, welcomed the delegation with high spirits, reminiscing about his days at the university. He fondly recalled his time as a student activist and his later service in the Nigerian Army, describing the University of Ibadan as the best thing that ever happened to him and generations of its graduates.
Highlighting the university’s far-reaching impact, the royal father referenced former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s famous remark that “every graduate in Nigeria and beyond is a UIte,” because so many lecturers across higher institutions are products of the university. He also cited the literary classic Things Fall Apart, penned by the UI alumnus Chinua Achebe, to illustrate that even those who have read such books have been indirectly nurtured by the UI spirit.
Urging all UI alumni to be good ambassadors of the institution, the Alake encouraged them to embody fairness, justice, and diligence in all their endeavors. He also pledged to reawaken his activism and deepen his involvement with the association, emphasizing that he wishes to be more than just a Board of Trustees member in name.
Addressing concerns raised by Dr. Gajir, the monarch promised to review the UIAA Constitution and the documents presented to him before responding formally to the Worldwide Executive. He expressed profound joy at hosting fellow UI alumni in his palace, calling it a moment of immense pride and honor.
Earlier, Dr. Gajir had briefed the Alake on the state of the association, seeking his wise counsel and royal blessing to strengthen its activities. He expressed deep gratitude for the monarch’s generosity, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to the welfare and unity of the people.
“Your Majesty’s kindness reflects your deep-rooted generosity and inspires us to continue to uphold the values of community, service, and excellence,” Dr. Gajir remarked, praying for His Majesty’s continued good health, wisdom, and peaceful reign over Egbaland and UIAA Worldwide.
The visit marks yet another milestone in the enduring bond between the University of Ibadan and its distinguished alumni across Nigeria and beyond.