Ado Ekiti — "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." These words of Mahatma Gandhi have been the guiding principle for Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, a philanthropist who has dedicated his life to serving humanity through his extraordinary gestures.
His latest act of kindness was said to have left a lasting impact on his hometown, as he recently donated a state-of-the-art senate building to Ekiti state - owned University of Education, Science, Technology, known as Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, (BOUESTI).
From supporting education through scholarships and healthcare initiatives, to providing relief packages and economic empowerment programmes, Olanipekun's unwavering commitment to giving back has inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps.
Speaking at the inauguration of the of the edifice, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, commended Olanipekun for advancing education in Nigeria, describing his contribution to the development of education as a lasting legacy for future generations.
The minister highlighted the importance of such investments, saying, "this building symbolises Chief Olanipekun's unwavering commitment to education and the empowerment of future leaders."
The minister expressed optimism that BOUESTI would continue to produce innovators and scholars that will propel Nigeria's progress in the 21st century, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM).
In his remarks, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who commended Olanipekun for his generosity, as well as his remarkable contribution to the improvement of education infrastructure in the state, thanked him for remaining committed to the development and progress of the state.
Describing Olanipekun as a pillar of development in the state, Governor Oyebanji said his contribution has significantly impacted various sectors, adding that his dedication to community service has set a benchmark for others to follow.
While calling on other prominent Ekiti indigenes to contribute towards building a brighter future for the state, the governor noted that collective efforts are essential for meaningful development of the state.
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"Today's event is very significant in the development of this university and the overall development of education in our state, I therefore congratulate Chief Olanipekun and his wife and the entire university community on the completion of this magnificent edifice.
"As a government, we understand the importance of education to the overall development plan of Ekiti State. Indeed human capital development is one critical item in our shared prosperity agenda as encapulated in our six-pillars. Our government remains committed to continuous improvement of our education infrastructure to facilitate a conducive learning environment at all levels of education," the governor added.
