ACU Council Member, Prof. Kolawole Marks 80th Birthday with Autobiography Donation to University

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, witnessed a symbolic celebration of legacy and scholarship as a member of its Governing Council, Prof. Gabriel Ayowole Kolawole, marked his 80th birthday with the donation of copies of his autobiography, “I Am Gabriel Ayowole,” to the institution.

The book presentation, held at the university’s Council Chamber, was received on behalf of the institution by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, alongside members of the university’s management team. The event also drew the presence of fellow Governing Council member, Bishop Babatunde Ogunbanwo of the Ijebu South-West Diocese, who joined in celebrating the milestone.

Prof. Kolawole’s autobiography documents his life trajectory from humble beginnings in Okemesi-Ekiti, where he was born into a family of 19 children, to becoming a distinguished academic and faith-driven scholar with international recognition. The narrative captures his early struggles, including being carried across rivers by his father as a child, and traces his progression into a celebrated professor, mentor, and globally respected scientist.

His academic and professional accomplishments include recognition as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (London) and the Nigerian Academy of Science, alongside a career that spans teaching, mentorship, and scholarly contribution in Nigeria and South Africa.

The autobiography was described at the event as both a personal memoir and a motivational text, presenting what observers called a “practical blueprint for resilience,” especially for individuals navigating socio-economic limitations. It emphasizes themes of perseverance, faith, education, family balance, and long-term impact.

Speaking ahead of the presentation, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Oduwole congratulated the celebrant on reaching the milestone age of 80, commending both his academic legacy and his gesture of donating the book to the university. She described the act as a contribution to institutional memory and student development.

Attendees at the event described Prof. Kolawole as “a worthy ambassador of faith and learning,” noting that his life story reflects a blend of academic excellence and moral grounding.

The celebration concluded with tributes celebrating his impact on scholarship, mentorship, and service to humanity.