ILA Congratulates Afe Babalola On Declaration Of Afe Babalola Day In Ekiti

The International Law Association (ILA) has extended its congratulations to Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), Chancellor and Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), following the royal proclamation by the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, designating October 18 as Afe Babalola Day.

On August 23, Oba Aladesanmi officially declared that Aare Afe Babalola, revered as “The Pride of Ado Ekiti,” will be celebrated annually on October 18, starting from 2024. This recognition places Babalola among a select few Nigerians to receive such an honor.

In a congratulatory letter, Professor Damilola S. Olawuyi (SAN), President of the International Law Association, Nigeria, and a United Nations Independent Expert, lauded Babalola as a “living legend” and a “foremost mentor.” Olawuyi highlighted Babalola’s exceptional contributions as an advocate, educator, philanthropist, and global citizen, noting that his dedication to educational reform, justice, and philanthropy makes him a worthy recipient of this prestigious honor.

“We are incredibly proud of our Patron, Aare Afe Babalola, and look forward to organizing a World Press Conference on October 18 to celebrate Afe Babalola Day,” Professor Olawuyi stated.

Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), a founding patron of the ILA Nigeria, is a distinguished lawyer, philanthropist, and advocate for quality education in Nigeria. His university, ABUAD, has been ranked as the number one institution in Nigeria for impact by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, and 2024).

The International Law Association, founded in 1873 in Brussels, is committed to the study and development of international law, as well as the promotion of global peace, equity, and justice. The Nigerian branch regularly hosts events and conferences to further these goals.