Afe Babalola Biography, Age, Wife, Net Worth

Afe Babalola, a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, educationist, and philanthropist, is a prominent figure whose influence extends across multiple fields. Born on October 30, 1929, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Babalola has made remarkable contributions to law, education, and agriculture. He is the founder and chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), a leading private university in Nigeria that reflects his commitment to academic excellence and societal development.

Afe Babalola Biography

Aare Emmanuel Afe Babalola, widely known as Afe Babalola, CON, OFR, SAN, was born on October 30, 1929, in Ekiti State, Nigeria. He is a prominent Nigerian lawyer and the founder of Afe Babalola University. Despite facing significant challenges due to limited formal education in his early years, he has risen to become one of Africa’s most esteemed legal figures. His remarkable journey from modest beginnings to a towering presence in the legal field underscores his remarkable determination, self-directed learning, and unyielding perseverance.

Afe Babalola Educational Background

Afe Babalola’s early education began at Emmanuel Primary School in Ado-Ekiti. Due to limited resources for further formal education, he took an unconventional path by pursuing private studies. He earned his Senior Cambridge School Certificate and A Levels. Babalola subsequently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics. Later, he pursued a law degree at the University of London and was called to the Bar in England in 1963, becoming a distinguished member of Lincoln’s Inn.

Afe Babalola Career

Afe Babalola started his legal career in Ibadan, working for Olu Ayoola and Co. In 1965, he established his law firm, Afe Babalola & Co. (Emmanuel Chambers), which has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading law firms. He was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987. His contributions extend beyond the legal field; he served as the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos from 2001 to 2008, during which he was recognized as the best Pro-Chancellor of Nigerian universities.

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Afe Babalola Awards

Afe Babalola has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his exceptional contributions to law, education, and food security. His awards reflect both national and international.

• Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR): This is one of Nigeria’s highest national honors, awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation.
• Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON): Another prestigious Nigerian national honor, recognizing outstanding service to the country.
• Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa): In 2015, Babalola became the first African to be conferred with an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D) degree by the University of London.
• Queen Victoria Commemorative Award: Awarded at the Socrates Award of the European Business Assembly in Oxford, UK, this honor recognizes significant contributions to business and society.

• African Man of the Year in Food Security (2014): This award highlights Babalola’s role in enhancing food security across Africa.
• African Award in Education (2011): This accolade acknowledges his contributions to educational development in Africa.
• Congressional Commendation: Conferred by the US Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, this commendation recognizes his impact on international development.
• Inducted into the African Hall of Fame (2016): Babalola was honored by the Advisory Board of the African Leadership Development Foundation, Inc., USA, and African Leadership (UK) Limited for his significant contributions to African society.

Afe Babalola Age

Afe Babalola is 95 years old as of 2024, he was born on October 30, 1929.

Afe Babalola Personal Life

Afe Babalola is married to Modupe Mercy Babalola. Together, they have nine children, including notable figures like Bolanle Austen-Peters and Folashade Alli (SAN).

Afe Babalola Wife

His wife, Modupe Mercy Babalola, has been a supportive partner throughout his life. Their children have followed in their father’s footsteps of excellence and leadership in various fields.

Afe Babalola Children

Afe Babalola is the proud father of nine children, each of whom has forged their path while upholding the family’s esteemed legacy. His son, Olatunde Babalola, is a distinguished lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). He has often spoken about how his father, Afe Babalola, has supported and encouraged him to carve out his path in the legal profession.

Among his children are Bolanle Austen-Peters, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry known for her work in theatre and film production, and Folashade Alli, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and has built a successful legal career, following in her father’s footsteps.

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In addition to these notable figures, Afe Babalola’s family includes three other daughters who are trained as lawyers, continuing the family’s strong tradition in the legal field.

Afe Babalola Net Worth

Afe Babalola’s net worth is estimated to be around $350 million as of 2024. This reflects his successful career in law, education, and agriculture. His investments include Afe Babalola University and various philanthropic activities that have significantly impacted many lives.

Afe Babalola Social Media Handles

Afe Babalola maintains a presence on social media, where he shares insights into his work and contributions to society. His social media handles are primarily associated with Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) and his law firm, allowing followers to stay updated on his educational initiatives, legal insights, and philanthropic endeavors. While he may not be personally active on all platforms, his institution’s profiles and websites serve as a hub for information related to his activities.

LinkedIn: Afe Babalola University

Twitter: @Abuad_Uni

Instagram: @abuad_uni

Website: www.abuad.edu.ng