Awolowo Statue Unveiled at Obafemi Awolowo University Campus in Ile-Ife

By Ojudu Babafemi

On Friday, December 5, 2025, the historic town of Ile-Ife witnessed a significant cultural milestone with the unveiling of a grand bronze statue of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. This imposing sculpture now stands prominently on the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), an institution formed from Awolowo’s visionary blueprint and proudly bearing his name.

Strategically positioned behind the architecturally striking Oduduwa Hall and overlooking Road One—the main artery greeting visitors—the statue majestically commands presence. Crafted with painstaking detail, the bronze monument cost ₦200 million and was generously gifted by Prince Yemisi Shyllon, a renowned Nigerian businessman, engineer, lawyer, and one of the country’s foremost private art patrons. Prince Shyllon’s dedication to celebrating Nigeria’s eminent personalities has been unwavering; barely three weeks earlier, he unveiled a bronze statue of Dr. Tai Solarin at Tai Solarin University of Education in Ijebu-Ode.

This latest addition to OAU’s campus is widely regarded as one of the most exquisite and authentic representations of Awolowo. Unlike other sculptures across Nigeria, this piece captures not only Awolowo’s recognizable stature but also embodies his intellect, legal acumen, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

The unveiling ceremony attracted key dignitaries, including Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, editor of the Nigerian Tribune and representative of the Awolowo family. Also present was Dr. Adeola Balogun, the gifted sculptor responsible for this magnificent creation. Prince Shyllon lauded Dr. Balogun’s artistic brilliance and personal integrity, qualities evident in every meticulous touch of the statue.

The event drew the university’s senior officers, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Adebayo Banire, numerous professors, and a vibrant gathering of students who witnessed the historic moment with enthusiasm and pride.

Prince Shyllon capped the day with an inspiring lecture on wealth, happiness, and philanthropy, urging a profound reflection on legacy and the true purpose of wealth. His message was met with a standing ovation and set the stage for a forthcoming partnership aimed at bolstering artistic innovation within OAU’s Faculty of Arts, with a vision to turn creativity into sustainable enterprise.

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Complementing the day’s celebrations was a mini-exhibition showcasing diverse art forms—from pottery to sculpture and painting—followed by a captivating theatrical rendition of Moremi Ajasoro by students from the Theatre Arts Department, beautifully tying culture to the day’s commemorations.

This event not only enriches the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo at the university but also signals a renewed commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s artistic and intellectual heritage for future generations.