“Building Legacies: Governance, Successor-generation and Continuity”, a lecture delivered by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) at the 2026 Afe Babalola Distinguished Personality Lecture, last Tuesday, was thought-provoking, incisive and, unsurprisingly, received a standing ovation.
The ovation, at the event held at the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), reflected the impact the offering made in extending the boundaries of knowledge and contributing to more rigorous thought. It revealed Oyebanji’s affinity for intellectual curiosity and the institutions founded on knowledge – an area where ABUAD has made its mark in a remarkably short time. In a country that must valourise intellectual capital to remain competitive, we owe a debt of gratitude to both BAO and ABUAD.
The Federal Government deserves commendation for its pledge – which will hopefully be translated into reality – to commit 1% of its revenue to research and development. This is a vital move that should have been initiated fifty years ago, as is the case in countries that had the foresight to picture the future. Nevertheless, it is a case of “better late than never.”
Oyebanji should follow suit by devoting at least 0.5% of Ekiti State’s revenue to research and development, teaming up with cutting-edge institutions such as ABUAD to carry it through. This will positively impact Ekiti State’s economy by creating a synergy that links the outcomes of applied research to a commercial framework, ultimately catalyzing long-term development.
We welcome this collaboration between BAO and ABUAD, and we look forward to seeing it deepen in the years ahead.
In a fortnight, we will provide a rigorous review of this forward-looking analysis. It is a conversation readers won’t want to miss.
May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!
