You are a worthy founding father, Jawondo hails Balogun at 90
By Abubakar Imam
The Dean of the Faculty of Arts, University of Ilorin, Prof. Ibrahim Abdulganiyu Jawondo, has paid glowing tributes to the pioneer Head of the Department of History and International Studies, University of Ilorin, Dr Saka Adegbite Balogun, on the occasion of his 90th birthday as he described him as a worthy founding father and outstanding statesman.
Prof. Jawondo, who is also a former Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ilorin, made the remarks last Wednesday (July 29, 2026) when he paid the renowned historian a congratulatory visit at his Ogbomoso, Oyo State residence. Dr Balogun attained the age of 90 penultimate Wednesday (July 22, 2027).
The Dean explained that Dr Balogun is not just the pioneer Head of the UNILORIN Department of History but also one of the surviving founding fathers of the University.
The Dean, who is also a former Head of the Department, thanked Dr Balogun for his services and sacrifices, which not only made the Department one of the best in the country but also a most visible and viable institution.
He said that the name of Dr Balogun would remain imperishable in the history of the University, including that of its Muslim Community under whose Chairmanship the first mosque on the main campus was built.
Aside his contributions to the growth and development of the better by far University, Prof. Jawondo recalled that Dr Balogun also served Oyo State and the nation in different capacities. He explained that Dr Balogun gave a very good account of himself as a one-time Chief of Staff to a former Governor in Oyo State.
Prof. Jawondo said that it was a pleasure that Dr Balogun is still mentally and physically strong at 90, saying that the celebrant has become a walking encyclopaedia of not just the Department, the Faculty and the University of Ilorin at large but also that of Ogbomoso and Yorubaland, and indeed Nigeria.
The Dean assured Dr Balogun and all those who retired from the services of the institution that the University would continue to relate with them and follow the progress they are attaining even in retirement.
While wishing Dr Balogun many happy returns, Prof. Jawondo prayed to Allah to grant him longer life, sound health and happiness to enable him reap the fruits of his labour to the fullest.
