The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Prof. Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, Ph.D, FCA, has led members of the University’s Management Team on a condolence visit to the residence of the late Yeye Owa of Ijesaland, Dame Eunice Olayinka Obaleye, M.O.N., who recently passed on at the age of 88.
The delegation was warmly received by the children and family members of the deceased industrialist and philanthropist, who expressed appreciation to the University leadership for identifying with them during their moment of grief. The visit afforded members of the University community the opportunity to pay glowing tributes to a woman whose life was marked by uncommon service, enterprise and commitment to the development of Ijesaland and humanity.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Asaolu described the late Dame Obaleye as an extraordinary personality whose contributions to economic growth, community development and philanthropy would remain indelible in the annals of Ijesaland. He noted that her unwavering commitment to societal advancement made her a beacon of hope and inspiration to many generations.
In a heartfelt condolence message entered in the condolence register, the Vice Chancellor wrote: “Mama, we shall sincerely miss you. Just when the donation of the Entrepreneurship Building donated to the University was gaining traction and we were hopeful that the building would be completed and commissioned by you, alas, we heard about your departure. May God grant you eternal rest, Amen. Sun re o, Mama oninu re!”
Prof. Asaolu further remarked that the University community received the news of her passing with deep sadness, especially considering her generous support towards the institution through the donation of an Entrepreneurship Building project aimed at fostering innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial excellence among students.
The Vice Chancellor recalled that Dame Obaleye’s remarkable life was defined by diligence, resilience and an uncommon passion for wealth creation and commerce. Her numerous investments and business ventures created employment opportunities and stimulated economic growth across Ilesa, Ijesaland, Osun State and Nigeria at large.
Widely celebrated as a foremost entrepreneur, industrialist and philanthropist of Ijesa extraction, Dame Obaleye deliberately deployed her energy, wealth and resources towards promoting commerce and empowering countless individuals. Her outstanding contributions earned her the prestigious national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (M.O.N.) and subsequently informed her installation by His Imperial Majesty, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, as the first Yeye Owa of Ijesaland.
Responding on behalf of the family, the children of the late matriarch expressed gratitude to the University Management for the visit and pledged to uphold and sustain the enduring legacy of their mother. Special prayers were thereafter offered for the peaceful repose of her soul, with attendees reflecting on the tremendous impact of a woman whose life exemplified service, generosity and unwavering dedication to community development.
He also served as Deputy Editor at Sahara Reporters Sports and worked as Content Manager for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), contributing significantly to sports journalism and digital content development in Nigeria.
Known for his strong storytelling ability and editorial expertise, Olayinka Olawole has covered a wide range of subjects, while also building a reputation in digital storytelling, audience engagement, and content optimisation for online and media platforms.
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