Renowned legal scholar and university founder, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, has received a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Nigerian Branch of the International Law Association (ILA).
The award was presented during the President’s Dinner and Award Night held at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), as part of the ILA’s 8th Annual International Law Conference.
President of ILA Nigeria, Prof. Damilola Olawuyi, SAN, praised Babalola for his decades-long contributions to law, diplomacy, and nation-building. “Aare Babalola’s dedication to legal education, food security, and mentoring sets the standard for global impact,” he said.
The event was attended by dignitaries including the Gambian Minister of Trade, Hon. Baboucarr Joof, ECOWAS trade officials, and top legal practitioners from across Africa.
In a keynote conversation moderated by Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu, Babalola reflected on his journey from humble beginnings to legal icon. “I built ABUAD to transform lives and redefine the standard of education in Africa,” he said.
He emphasized agriculture as key to economic development. “If we educate our youth in agriculture, we will feed the world and earn critical foreign exchange,” Babalola added.
The evening also saw the presentation of the ILA Emerging Star Award to Emmanuel Latona Adedeji and the ILA Service Award to Ayodeji Asala.
According to Olawuyi, “This award represents the highest recognition in international law and diplomacy. It celebrates those who educate, empower, and uplift others.”
Some international attendees also commended Babalola’s. One delegate said, “His example reminds judges and lawyers alike of the importance of service to society.”
Founded in 1873, the ILA has over 4,500 members in 45 countries. Its mission is to advance the study and development of international law.
The Nigerian branch regularly organises conferences and training programs to promote excellence in the legal profession.
