By, Olawale Ogunbusola

 

Eminent Nigerians converged at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) on Saturday to celebrate the 87th birthday of elder statesman and former Afenifere Secretary-General, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa.

The occasion featured the presentation of two books, including Arogbofa’s “Understanding Afenifere: A Historical Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organisation” and a Festschrift titled “Seinde Arogbofa: A Quintessential Role Model”.

Speaking, the Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described Arogbofa as a “towering figure” whose life embodies intellectual depth, moral authority, and enduring relevance in public service.

“Arogbofa’s years of service exemplified loyalty, discipline, and institutional memory,” Aiyedatiwa said, adding that the elder statesman’s presence serves as a check on leadership and governance.

Other dignitaries, including former Minister of Defence, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, and FUTA Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, lauded Arogbofa’s contributions to Nigerian literature and socio-political development.

In his brief remarks, Arogbofa,
expressed gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the weight of expectations that come with it, emphasizing the importance of reading and writing.

The event was capped with Arogbofa’s investiture as a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).