The founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Afe Babalola, has renewed his commitment to deploying personal resources towards improving education in Nigeria, stressing that quality and accessible education remain the foundation for the country's prosperity.

Babalola made the remarks at ABUAD following his decoration as the Icon Man of the Year 2026 by Triangle News International Magazine at a ceremony held in London, where he was represented by the university's Vice Chancellor, Smaranda Olarinde.

The elder statesman traced his commitment to education to his own personal experience. "As my personal story clearly shows, education remains the surest passport out of hunger, poverty, and despair. It has therefore been my lifelong desire and commitment to provide the same opportunity for transformative education, which Wolsey Hall gave to me and to millions of underprivileged people in Nigeria and across the globe," he stated.

Babalola highlighted the university's growth since its establishment, pointing to its performance in global rankings as evidence of the institution's impact. "Since its establishment in 2009, ABUAD has grown remarkably in reputation and impact. The university has received several national and international recognitions, including being ranked in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings as 84th in the world, 3rd in Africa, and 1st in Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025," he disclosed.

He dedicated the award to the students and alumni of ABUAD, crediting their achievements with positioning the institution as one of the leading universities in Nigeria and beyond.

Reaffirming his broader vision, Babalola stated, "I wish to use the occasion of this milestone recognition to assure you that our story of redefining education in Nigeria has only just begun. Nigeria, Africa, and indeed the world will become more peaceful, more prosperous, and more progressive when quality and affordable education is made accessible to all."

CEO of Triangle International Magazine, Olufemi Salako, said Babalola was considered for the award due to his extraordinary achievements in legal practice, educational innovation, philanthropy, and institution building, describing him as a symbol of possibility and transformative leadership across Africa.