The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, has extolled the contributions of renowned legal luminary and philanthropist, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, to humanity and national development, describing him as “a specially created blessing to humanity.”
Professor Ogunwole gave the commendation on Tuesday at the unveiling ceremony of the ultra-modern NewCruse Mother and Child Maternity Complex donated by Chief Olanipekun and his family to the State Specialist Hospital, Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State
The colourful and historic event drew prominent personalities from across Nigeria’s political, traditional, academic and religious circles, turning Ikere-Ekiti into a gathering point for national leaders and distinguished guests.
Among dignitaries present were former Governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande; Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji; Governor of Ondo State; Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa; former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Ogoga of Ikere Kingdom; Senator Adeyeye; Senator Adaramodu; Vice-Chancellors of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ekiti State University (EKSU), Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), alongside top government functionaries, legal icons, clergymen, traditional rulers and captains of industry.
The Professor of Soil Scientist said Chief Olanipekun’s life has remained a shining example of selfless service, visionary leadership and uncommon generosity.
According to him, the senior advocate of Nigeria has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to the growth of humanity through impactful interventions in education, healthcare, community development and the legal profession.
Professor Ogunwole noted that while many attain greatness, only a few dedicate their resources and influence to uplifting society and transforming lives.
He described the newly donated maternity complex as a landmark intervention that would strengthen maternal and child healthcare delivery in Ekiti State and Nigeria at large
The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the facility would not only reduce pressure on healthcare institutions but also improve access to quality medical services for women and children.
In his address, Chief Wole Olanipekun reflected on his humble beginnings and deep-rooted passion for humanity and charity.
He explained that his journey of philanthropy was inspired by gratitude to God, quality upbringing and the support he enjoyed during his formative years in Ikere-Ekiti.
The legal icon recounted how he established the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme in 1996 to support indigent but brilliant students in Ikere-Ekiti, noting that the initiative later transformed into the Wole Olanipekun Foundation (WOF).
According to the Legal Luminary, the foundation has over the years produced more than 4,253 beneficiaries across different professional fields including Law, Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy, Education, Architecture, Accountancy, Theology and Computer Science.
Chief Olanipekun stated that beyond scholarship programmes, his family has continued to invest heavily in projects aimed at improving lives and advancing societal development.
He listed several landmark projects executed over the years to include the donation of an ICT Centre to Amoye Grammar School, Ikere; a 450-capacity Law Auditorium at the University of Ibadan; a Bar Centre for the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikere Branch; the Wole and Lara Olanipekun Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge at Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo; the High Court of Ekiti State, Ikere Division; the Wole Olanipekun Senate Building at BOUESTI; and the Wole Olanipekun Law Auditorium at Babcock University.
He added that the NewCruse Mother and Child Maternity Complex represents another milestone in the family’s commitment to humanitarian service and sustainable development.
Chief Olanipekun emphasized that true fulfilment lies in impacting lives positively and contributing meaningfully to society.
Goodwill messages poured in from dignitaries at the event, many of whom described the donor as a symbol of excellence, patriotism and compassionate leadership.
The Ooni of Ife commended Chief Olanipekun for preserving the values of community service and philanthropy, while political leaders and traditional rulers applauded his consistent investment in human capital and infrastructural development.
Observers described the unveiling ceremony as not only a celebration of philanthropy but also a testament to the power of giving back to society.
The NewCruse Mother and Child Maternity Complex is expected to significantly enhance healthcare delivery within Ikere-Ekiti and neighbouring communities, particularly in the area of maternal and child health.
The event featured prayers, goodwill messages and encomiums for the donor and his family, as guests praised the remarkable legacy of service and humanity associated with Chief Wole Olanipekun.
