Afe Babalola

**Afe Babalola: A Distinguished Nigerian Legal and Educational Administrator** Aare Afe Babalola, CON, OFR, SAN (born October 18, 1929, in Ado Ekiti, Southern Region, British Nigeria, now Ekiti State, Nigeria), is a highly distinguished Nigerian lawyer, farmer, educationist, and educational administrator. He is widely recognized for his profound contributions to the legal profession in Nigeria and his transformative impact on higher education, primarily through the establishment of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD).Early Life and Education Born in Ado Ekiti, Afe Babalola pursued his education through external study programs. He successfully obtained a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of London. In 1963, he was called to the England bar and became a member of Lincoln’s Inn, London, marking the formal beginning of his legal career.Legal Career and Progression Babalola began his legal practice in Ibadan, Oyo State, as a litigation lawyer at Olu Ayoola and Co, law firm. His career soared, and he quickly established himself as a leading legal luminary. In 1987, he was conferred with the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the highest rank for a legal practitioner in the country. Throughout his decades-long career, he has been an active figure in both domestic and international arbitration, serving as a prominent advocate and legal consultant. His law firm, Afe Babalola & Co., maintains offices in major Nigerian cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.Major Achievements and Notable Works Afe Babalola's influence extends far beyond the courtroom. His commitment to education led to several significant roles and achievements: * **Afe Babalola University (ABUAD):** In 2009, he founded Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), serving as its Founder and Chancellor. The university was established to promote high-quality education in Nigeria and quickly garnered recognition, being ranked the second best private university in Nigeria in 2013. * **University of Lagos:** He served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council for the University of Lagos from 2001 to 2007. * **National Honors and Recognition:** His contributions to the nation have been recognized with high honors, including Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). * **Legal Accolades:** He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (FNIALS) and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb.). He has also received numerous honorary degrees, including a Doctor of Laws from the University of London.Current Status Aare Afe Babalola remains actively involved in his educational and legal ventures. Despite his advanced age, he continues to advocate for the advancement of education and the practice of law in Nigeria. He is married to Modupe Mercy Babalola and is a father to nine children.