The Group Chairman of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree on Saturday by Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Ogunbiyi was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Management degree alongside four other distinguished individuals, including the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the 48th convocation of the university, held at the institution’s Amphitheatre.
Mrs. Tinubu was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Administration degree, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe received an honorary Doctor of Science in Energy Planning and Management, while Olukotun Karl Toriola and Daere Akobo were awarded honorary Doctors of Science in Engineering and Business Management, respectively.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, stated that all the awardees were well deserving of the recognition. He explained that the university decided to honor them for their distinguished contributions to the development of their respective fields.
After receiving his award, Ogunbiyi expressed his gratitude to the university, saying it was a great honor. “It’s a moment of great excitement,” he added.
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Ogunbiyi, a proud alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), formerly known as the University of Ife, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics, earning a Second Class Upper Division. Over the years, he has consistently contributed to the development of his alma mater and pledged to continue these efforts.
Reflecting on his recognition, Ogunbiyi said, “This is an incredible achievement from a prestigious institution like OAU. It was unexpected, but as events unfolded, I could sense it coming, especially after being conferred with the highest honor from the alumni association—Commander of Great Ife.”
He continued, “This recognition is truly special. As an alumnus, I’ve been doing my part to support the university, particularly at the faculty level. I am committed to ensuring continuity and will continue working to uphold the values that earned me this honor.”
The Chancellor of the University, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe, also congratulated the awardees. He described the awards as a testament to the university’s appreciation of their contributions to the progress of humanity and the institution’s welfare.
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