Amidst controversies over alleged defamation in Dele Farotimi’s book, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System’, Afe Babalola has been named the 2024 Best Nigerian Patriot for his contributions to national development.
The notification of the award was conveyed in a letter addressed to the legal icon, co-signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Selection Committee, Prof. Joseph Mfon and Prof. Barika Saro-Laka, respectively.
In the letter, the association described Afe Babalola as a detribalised nationalist whose selfless contributions have left a significant impact, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and beyond.
The association highlighted the reasons for honouring Aare Afe Babalola: Employment Creation: Providing over 1,600 jobs to Nigerians across various tribes and cultures.
Legal Excellence: Producing the highest number of lawyers in Africa, including over 100 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), as well as Judges and Attorneys General of the Federation.
Educational Development: Establishing the self-funded Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), aimed at reducing illiteracy, crime, and ignorance in Nigeria.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Labour House, Abuja, on Thursday, 9th January, 2025.
