Ede Elders Celebrate Abiola Odejide at 80, Hail Her as Humanist Par Excellence

The Ede Elders Council has honoured renowned academic, Abiola Odejide, on the occasion of her 80th birthday, describing her as a humanist par excellence and a distinguished daughter of Ede.

In a statement issued by its President, Alhaji Sulaimon Ademola Adebayo, and signed by the Council’s Director of Publicity, Chief Dr Ayodele Adeyemo, the group praised the Professor Emeritus for her outstanding contributions to academia, community service and humanity.

The council noted that Odejide, a Professor of Communication Arts, has consistently exemplified the virtues of humility, discipline and cultural refinement, describing her as a true embodiment of the Omoluabi ethos associated with Ede indigenes.

According to the statement, although she was born into the prominent Ayoade family of Ede, she grew up with modesty and grace, qualities that have defined her personal and professional life despite her numerous academic achievements and leadership roles.

Vice Chairman of the council, Chief Dr Bayo Ojo, said Odejide had, from an early age, demonstrated exceptional promise, particularly in her educational pursuits, distinguishing herself among her peers.

He commended her diligence and discipline, which he said culminated in a successful academic career at the University of Ibadan, where she rose to become Deputy Vice Chancellor—the first woman to hold the position at the institution.

Ojo further highlighted her contributions to community development, religious activities and family life, describing them as exemplary and worthy of emulation.

Also speaking, Adeyemo, who was once a student of the celebrant at the University of Ibadan, described her as a mentor, counsellor and role model to many.

He noted that even at 80, Odejide remains intellectually active and continues to inspire younger generations through her scholarship and personal example.

“She is many things to many people—a great teacher, a dependable mentor, a caring figure and an accomplished academic,” Adeyemo said, adding that her life reflects “the kindness and grace of God.”

Odejide, an authority in Communication Arts and English Language, is also recognised for her expertise in children’s literature. She spent decades teaching at the University of Ibadan, where she held several key positions.

The Ede Elders Council described her as an international scholar of repute and a woman of dignity, wishing her many more years of good health, peace and continued service to humanity.