By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
In a royal gathering that celebrated heritage, leadership, and intellectual legacy, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, Worldwide President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), led the Association’s Executive on a landmark courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, The Okukenu IV, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland.
The visit, held at the Alake’s palace in Abeokuta, was marked by heartfelt reflections, powerful symbolism, and a renewed commitment to the values of Nigeria’s premier university.
Welcoming the delegation with regal warmth, Oba Gbadebo—himself a distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan and a member of the UIAA Board of Trustees—fondly recounted his student activism days and his journey through the Nigerian Army. He described his time at UI as one of the most defining chapters of his life, proudly affirming that “UI was the best thing that ever happened to me and many others.”
The monarch echoed former President Goodluck Jonathan’s famous words that “every graduate in Nigeria is a UIte” because of UI’s far-reaching academic influence, particularly through the lecturers it has produced across Nigerian institutions. He also referenced Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, written by a UI alumnus, as evidence of the university’s cultural and intellectual penetration. “If you’ve read Achebe’s book,” he said, “then you’ve been touched by the spirit of UI.”
In a moment of reflection and recommitment, Oba Gbadebo pledged to become more active in UIAA affairs beyond his role as a trustee. “I want to do more than just bear the title,” he said, assuring the visiting team of his support for the association’s mission.
Addressing matters raised by Dr. Gajir, including key issues about the association’s growth and structure, the monarch promised to review the constitution and relevant documents and to respond after due consideration. He also expressed immense joy in hosting fellow UI alumni, saying their presence brought pride and renewed purpose.
Dr. Gajir, in his remarks, described the visit as strategic and symbolic, saying the Executive came to brief the Alake on the state of the UIAA and to seek his royal advice and blessing. He expressed profound appreciation for the monarch’s warmth and generosity.
“Your Majesty’s kindness reflects your deep-rooted generosity and inspires us to uphold the values of community, service, and excellence,” Dr. Gajir said, offering prayers for the monarch’s continued reign in peace, wisdom, and good health.
The visit not only reinforced the enduring legacy of the University of Ibadan but also deepened the bond between its alumni and one of the institution’s most illustrious sons.
