In a significant ceremony celebrating academic excellence and social activism, a leading Nigerian university administrator has been honoured with a major continental prize.
Prestigious Award for Courageous Advocacy
Prof. Toyin Falola, the renowned African historian and public intellectual, has presented the esteemed Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Prize for Distinguished Public Activism and Service to Dr. Oyebola Ayeni, the Registrar of Lead City University in Ibadan.
The award recognises Dr. Ayeni's courageous advocacy, her dedicated service to humanity, and her sustained commitment to advancing the progress and welfare of women in society. The presentation took place in January at the Toyin Falola @73 Conference, an event that gathered leading scholars, policymakers, activists, and development practitioners from across Africa and the diaspora.
Honouring a Legacy of Activism
Announcing the honour, Prof. Falola explained the significance of the prize. He stated that it is reserved for Africans who have distinguished themselves through selfless service, principled activism, and an unwavering commitment to humanity, with a special focus on women's rights.
"The Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Prize for Distinguished Public Activism and Service is given to an African who has distinguished herself in courageously promoting the common cause of humanity on various fronts, and particularly with respect to women's rights," Falola said. He emphasised that the recipient must have demonstrated a commitment to championing the cause of the voiceless and collaborating with others for women's welfare.
He described the award as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, one of Africa's foremost nationalists, feminist activists, and educators, whose work continues to inspire generations.
A Humbling and Meaningful Recognition
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Oyebola Ayeni expressed that she was deeply honoured to receive an award named after such a formidable figure. She described the recognition as both humbling and profoundly meaningful.
"This award recognises courageous service, advocacy for the voiceless and sustained commitment to the progress and welfare of women in society. To be associated with the legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is an honour I cherish deeply," Dr. Ayeni stated.
She added that this honour has strengthened her resolve to continue promoting equity, inclusion, mentorship, and opportunities for women and young people across various institutions and communities. "I accept this honour with gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility to continue working with others to build a more just and inclusive society," she affirmed.
Celebrating Institutional Leadership
The event was also a moment of pride for Lead City University as a whole. The institution's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Aderemi Adeyemo, was recognised as the recipient of the 2026 Thabo Mbeki Award for Excellence in Leadership. This award acknowledges his significant contributions to institutional development and leadership excellence.
Dr. Ayeni concluded her remarks by thanking the organisers of the Toyin Falola @73 Conference, the University of Texas at Austin, and Lead City University for the platform and honour. She dedicated the award, saying, "I share this award with every woman whose resilience inspires change and every ally who believes in building a more just society."
