The Sigma Club of the University of Ibadan recently inducted businessman and philanthropist Sir Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu into its prestigious roll of honour, marking him as the 51st esteemed member of the club.
This historic induction took place outside the University of Ibadan, breaking a tradition of 73 years, during the 2023 Sigma Guest Luncheon and Induction event held in Lagos. The event celebrated Adebutu’s 88th birthday.
Chairman of the occasion, Professor Gabriel Ogunmola, emphasized that honorees must be individuals with a proven track record of accomplishments, serving as a source of inspiration for club members. Adebutu was chosen for this honour based on his outstanding achievements and his dedicated service to humanity and Nigeria.
“From the modest beginnings of a group of gentlemen undergraduates at the University of Ibadan 73 years ago,” Professor Ogunmola remarked, “has emerged a great Nigerian: a patriot, a philanthropist, a prominent businessman, and a significant figure in our society — Sir (Dr) Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu.”
Sigma Chief Eniola Moses Oluwajenyo hailed Adebutu as a living embodiment of the virtues upheld by the Sigma Club. He described Adebutu as a remarkable, respected, and honourable man deserving of recognition, highlighting his remarkable accomplishments, impeccable qualifications, and, most importantly, his extensive philanthropic endeavours, which align seamlessly with the values of the Sigma Club.
Sigma Chief also shared plans for the construction of the Sigma House at the University of Ibadan, which will serve as a residence for university students.
Following his formal induction into the Sigma Club, Adebutu expressed his deep appreciation for the club’s decision to extend this honour to him in Lagos, recognizing that such a gesture transcends typical chieftaincy and traditional honours. He warmly embraced his new identity as a Sigmite.
During the event, awards of recognition were presented to distinguished old chief Sigmite members and some other past members who had made significant contributions and sacrifices for the club. Honorees included Dr. Gani Adeniran, Dr. Adeduntan Akinsola Kazeem, CEO of First Bank, Nebolisa Arah, Francis Kudayah, Adetunji Lamidi, the Vice President of FCMB, and Victor Etuokwu, a Director at Access Bank.
The event was attended by both current and former members of the Sigma Club, as well as representatives from other social, sports, and traditional clubs. Also present were traditional rulers, friends, and family of the celebrant, and a diverse array of distinguished guests.
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