Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, will on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, host a valedictory event in honour of Professor ’Tola Badejo (KWJ), celebrating his remarkable 47-year career in active service and his outstanding contributions to teaching, research, university administration, and scientific development.

The event, scheduled to commence at noon at the BOOC, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, will bring together members of the university community, colleagues, scholars, family members, and well-wishers to celebrate the distinguished academic and administrator.

Professor Badejo, an internationally recognized entomologist, is also one of the few acarologists in Africa, a renowned taxonomist and an environmental scientist whose research has contributed significantly to the understanding of soil biology and biodiversity.

His academic career at Obafemi Awolowo University spans 45 years, from 1981 to 2026. During his years of service, he established himself as a respected researcher, scholar, and teacher, contributing to scientific knowledge both within Nigeria and internationally.

His scholarly accomplishments include describing and naming 22 species of oribatid mites from Nigeria and Brazil. He has also served as an adjunct researcher at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, and held visiting research positions in the Netherlands and Brazil.

Professor Badejo’s international recognition includes fellowships with the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in Germany. Beyond research and teaching, he has distinguished himself in university administration, having served as Vice-Chancellor of two universities.

A major highlight of the valedictory event will be the public presentation of a book edited by Professor Badejo, titled “Attainment of a Green World: Illusion, Reality or Tantalizing Mirage?” The book will be reviewed by Professor JFK Akinbami of the Centre for Energy Research and Development, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

The celebration offers an opportunity to reflect on Professor Badejo’s professional journey, his contributions to scientific research and higher education, and the lasting influence of his work on generations of students, researchers, and academics.