Celebrating a people’s don at 55

HE is a bosom friend of Oyo state governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde. He is also one of the confidantes of the University of Ibadan’s (UI) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale. He is Pro-Chancellor, Chairman of Council, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso.  In fact, he is the only academic staffer at UI who is also a Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council of another university. Prof. Ayodeji Oludare Omole rose from a humble beginning, by a sheer force of will, determination, and steadfastness to principles to become one of the most influential figures, not only within UI, where he is a professor of Forest Engineering, but across the state. In addition to his current status as Head of Department, Forest Production and Products, Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, this one-time Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UI branch, who is also the current chairman of Senior Staff Housing Committee has a finger in every pie, with incredible success stories! He performs daring and difficult duties almost effortlessly. His capacity is consuming as he is bold and blunt, yet, simple and sincere. Prof. Omole is an audacious fellow imbued with other sterling qualities such as hard work, relentlessness and integrity.

 For Prof. Omole who is 55 years old today, as long as there are injustices to be exposed, and truths to be defended, he is there, steadfast, and unswerving. As the chairman of the Senior Staff Housing Committee, he has fought some staff members even up to the court of law in his determination to safeguard the integrity of the university. He is against those allegedly renting out the boy’s quarters of their buildings to students at exorbitant fee. It is a big offense to rent out university property. He is out to fight the menace. It can be said with sufficient justification that he is a man of steely resolve and profound patriotism. His unique blend of technical expertise, business acumen and leadership prowess has enabled him to navigate complex challenges and achieve remarkable success. However, in his teaching career over the years, Prof. Omole who is apparently a man with a coat of many colours has guided hundreds of his students through the complexities of academic rigour, making even the most intricate concepts accessible and engaging. Some of his students say he creates learning environment where curiosity is encouraged and critical thinking is nurtured. Clearly, he has nurtured dreams, ignited passions, and empowered potential. Omole’s engaging lectures and hands-on teaching approach have evidently inspired many of the students to pursue careers in forestry.

 According to one of his former students, Segun Oladele, “Prof. Omole guided us through academic challenges with his astuteness, thoughtfulness and gentleness, making tough concepts uncoil. He went above and beyond, not only imparting knowledge, but also instilling a true love for learning. Though some of us perceived his thoroughness as rigidity, it is only in hindsight that many realized the values of his focus.” Consequently, Omole is deeply revered as he has transcended the role of a mere lecturer to becoming mentor, counsellor, and unwavering supporters of many of his students. Though his birth might not have been heralded by the appearance of many stars, he has clearly risen to be a bright and shining star among the galaxy of academic stars in UI. It hardly needs to be said that he is a shining example of what could be accomplished through hard work and relentless pursuit of excellence. From his unwavering integrity to his boundless compassion, Omole exemplifies what it means to lead with honour and grace.

The question remains: where does he get the energy to function in so many capacities without signs of fatigue? The Dean of his faculty, Prof. Adejoke Akinyele, provides an insight: “Prof. Omole is a man of many parts and I have wondered and even asked him severally how he’s able to combine his many responsibilities successfully. All these positions he is occupying are very demanding, yet he has combined them with many other responsibilities admirably.” Prof. Akinyele adds: “Omole is very passionate about the progress of staff and students and he goes all out to ensure that he gives his support without restrain, either physically, morally, financially or in any form whenever it is needed. He is an asset to UI.”  Indeed, his contributions in UI and other places have been so profound and far-reaching as he is a steadfast source of strength and succour. He is not a man with shifting standards. Yet, he is humble, helpful and honest. This is well reflected in his likability by both staff and students.

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 Like bees to a honey comb, people always troop to his office in search of solutions to many issues of concern.  Interestingly, the ambience around him creates such a relaxing environment for free communication and cross-fertilization of ideas. His ability to navigate the complexities of culture and power is amazing.

However, his commitment to the greater good, rather than the personal gain is one of the reasons he stands out of the crowd. Omole’s journey is not just a story of professional achievements, it is a narrative that underscores the importance of ethical and empathetic leadership as he does his duties with vigour and rigour. Therefore, it is not out of place to celebrate the nobility of his service. His journey has been a tapestry of achievements woven with dedication and wisdom. It is against this backdrop that I join many of his family members, friends and well wishers to raise a cup of toast to many more years of quality service to humanity. A happy birthday, Prof. In this momentous milestone, I wish you the greatest goodness of God’s grace in the coming years.

• Saanu is of the University of Ibadan.