A towering seven-foot bronze statue of Chief Obafemi Awolowo was unveiled on Friday at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife. Valued at ₦120 million by the donor, the statue depicts the sage in his Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) robes and stands 15 feet tall, including its pedestal.
At the unveiling, OAU Vice Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Bamire, described the statue as a legacy project symbolising Awolowo’s dedication to humanity. He praised the donor, Prince Yemisi Shyllon, for the generous gift, and emphasised Awolowo’s life as a lesson in selfless service.
Professor Bamire stated, “Civilisation’s soul beats strongest through its art, music, literature, and culture — principles that resonate deeply with OAU’s academic philosophy: ‘for learning and culture.’ This statue will inspire future generations with ideals of leadership, service, and excellence.”
Prince Yemisi Shyllon, Africa’s renowned art collector and philanthropist, said the project was his tribute to Awolowo’s purposeful leadership. He contrasted Awolowo’s meaningful legacy with modern obsessions over material wealth, highlighting projects such as free education, Cocoa House, Western Nigeria Television, Liberty Stadium, and OAU itself as part of Awolowo’s enduring contributions.
Shyllon urged all to live meaningful lives that positively impact humanity, just as Awolowo did before his passing 38 years ago. He added that true generosity, as taught by religious texts, is given without expectation of reward.
Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Awolowo’s daughter and Chairperson of African Newspapers of Nigeria, thanked Prince Shyllon and the university for preserving the late leader’s legacy through the statue. Represented by the Saturday Tribune Editor, Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, she said, “This statue honours a man whose selfless service continues to inspire.”
She encouraged OAU students to emulate Awolowo’s commitment to noble causes.
Among the attendees was Senator Babafemi Ojudu, who also lauded Chief Awolowo’s remarkable leadership.
