OAU awards Prof. Yusuf Ali for Academic Research Excellence

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife has recognized one of its distinguished alumni, Prof. Yusuf Ali, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), with the Academic Research Excellence Award.

The 2024 OAU Academic Research Excellence Awards (second edition) took place on Tuesday at the university’s Oduduwa Hall.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simeon Bamire congratulated Prof. Ali on his remarkable achievements and significant contributions to knowledge on both national and global levels.

Bamire stressed that Ali’s selection for this prestigious award reveals his dedication and impactful contributions to the field of law and legal practices in Nigeria and beyond.

Keynote speaker Prof. Sola Akinrinade, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, praised Ali’s exemplary commitment and unique approach to his work.

Akinrinade encouraged persistence and integrity, urging Nigerians to make integrity their watchword and strive to elevate others alongside themselves.

In his acceptance speech, Prof. Ali attributed his success to Almighty Allah and acknowledged the support, guidance, mentorship, and encouragement he received from his teachers, mentors, family, and peers.

He emphasized that success is a collaborative effort and encouraged students to become ambassadors for societal improvement and future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

Ali advised students to believe in their abilities, trust in their capacities to achieve greatness, and understand that success is a continuous journey of growth and improvement.

“Receiving this award is not a reflection of my individual efforts, but testament to support, guidance, mentorship, encouragement and inspiration that I have received from my teachers, mentors, family and peers.

“It is a reminder that success is not a solidarity pursuit but a collaborative effort that requires a village of supporters to lift you up, cheer you on, drum support for you and believe in your potentials,” he stated.

Ali advised the students to be good ambassadors for the future of the society, and leaders, innovators and change-makers of tomorrow.

“You have the power to shape the world, to make a difference and leave lasting impact and legacies on those around you.

“Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities and have faith in your capacities to achieve greatness; remembering success is not a destination but a journey.

“It is a continuous process of growth and improvement, always try to better your best, challenge yourself to reach new heights, to push beyond your comfort zone and to strive for excellence in everything you do,” the legal icon said.

The event’s highlight was Ali awarding scholarships to 320 top students of the institution.