Obasanjo, Adesina Hail Ex-Ogun Commissioner on UK Varsity’s Achievement Award

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the President of the African Development Bank (ADB), Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, have congratulated a former Commissioner for Agriculture in Ogun State, Dr. Adeola Odedina.

Odedina was congratulated for bagging the 2024 University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, Alumni Honour Award for Lifetime Achievement.
The messages of Obasanjo and Adesina were contained in a message shared by Odedina, to journalists.
Odedina, a set of 1991, clinched the coveted price ahead of three other nominees namely Sandra Wallace CBE, James Meehan and Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim.

According to the organizers, the prestigious award recognises the outstanding lifetime accomplishments of a graduate for their ongoing and significant contribution to their profession or society since graduating.
Odedina, who has previously served as a Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure and Rector, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta has mentored no fewer than 40, 000 young Nigeria whom have expressed keen interest in smart agriculture and agro business amongst others.
The former commissioner for agriculture, edged out other finalists to emerge winner of the prestigious award.

Receiving his latest award, Odedina expressed delight over his nomination and eventual win saying: “this is the highest point of my life and career. I listened to the profile of fellow finalists, and I said, do I stand a chance? I am happy this is a reality.”
Odedina added that he received congratulatory messages over his nomination from the former president of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and the President, African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, who he describes as his mentors.

He further said: “I left Wolverhampton Polytechnic in 1991. I studied Agricultural Education and what I learnt became very handy when I was the Commissioner for Agriculture in Ogun State, Nigeria during the Covid – 19 era where I mapped out road map for agriculture.”
“Attending the University of Wolverhampton’s global award ceremony felt as grand as the Olympics – a place to participate, not just to win.

“It’s no wonder that finalists choose to celebrate their nominations like the Grammy and Ballon d’Or awards. I was thrilled and deeply honored when I received a nomination for the prestigious Alumni Honour Award for Lifetime Achievement and celebrated it wholeheartedly.
“Last night in the UK, I attended the award ceremony with my wife and daughter, telling them that simply being a co-finalist was an achievement, especially alongside such accomplished individuals – members of the British Empire (MBE), a former MP, and other distinguished figures.

“When my name was announced, my wife and daughter tapped my shoulder and said, “Daddy, it’s you.” It was a glorious moment for my family and friends, who celebrated alongside me.
“The Nigerian community within the university, including lecturers and students, felt a collective pride, and the international audience witnessed the dedication that has guided my career. I thank God for this moment and give honor to those who have supported and guided me.

“I am grateful to the University of Wolverhampton for staying connected with my journey and for nurturing my growth—my wife attests that I went to a good school!
“This institution truly equips young people with life skills and inspiration. I look forward to strengthening my bond with the university and continuing to give back.
“Special thanks to the Nigerian community in Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and the West Midlands who celebrated me on various platforms.

“A heartfelt mention to the Friends of Birmingham, including my dear friend Dr. Tunde Salawu, Chief Akinpelu, and His Royal Highness, the Osilo of Osolo, for their extraordinary support.”

Odedina who described himself as Mr. Wolverhampton in Nigeria used the occasion to recommend the university to anyone seeking life skill who wants to advance his/her career either in agriculture or any other field.