Prof. Olugbenga Oke-Samuel – A Most Deserved Honour
By Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, FCIArb, FNIALS
It comes as no surprise that the Makanre community in Ondo State will come together in April 2025, in unity and pride to celebrate one of our own—a remarkable scholar, an inspiring leader of youth, and a committed academic: Professor Olugbenga Oke-Samuel. Former Dean of Law at Adekunle Ajasin University, and the trailblazing pioneer Dean at Thomas Adewumi University, Oko, Kwara State—his journey is a testament to resilience, intellect, and purpose.
The organizers of this celebration deserve our gratitude. In a society where all too often the spotlight is reserved for the wealthy or politically connected—regardless of substance—it is refreshing and deeply meaningful to see a community choose to honour a quiet achiever; someone whose legacy is being written not with noise, but with true impact. That this recognition is going to a university teacher speaks volumes—not just about the honouree, but also about the values of those honouring him. It sends a powerful message: in Idanre, we still honour integrity, we still uphold merit, and we know the difference between true worth and hollow noise.
Prof. Olugbenga Oke-Samuel is no stranger to me. I have known him since our childhood days. From early years in primary and secondary school, through to his university education and rise in academia, I have watched his journey with admiration and pride. At every stage, he has been consistent— humble, amiable, sociable and principled.
He brings to every responsibility a fine blend of deep intellect, an unwavering sense of duty, and an enviable capacity to lead with both heart and wisdom. He is, quite simply, the kind of person any community would be proud to have—and ours is indeed fortunate.
Our late mentor, Prof. Yomi Dinakin (of blessed memory), shaped me in profound ways—first at the University of Lagos and later at Adekunle Ajasin University. And while I do not say this to boast, I am deeply thankful to have played a small role in shaping the professional and academic journey of Prof. Oke-Samuel. I have no doubt that he, too, will lift many others—he already is. This celebration is proof.
Dear brother and learned friend, congratulations on this well-earned recognition. This is not just a celebration of what you have accomplished—it is a signal of even greater things to come. Your light is only beginning to shine its brightest.
Keep rising. Keep shining. You are unstoppable.
Warmest congratulations,
Yemi Akinseye-George