By Duchess Ifeoluwa
The serene campus of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, transformed into a spectacular arena of culture, sports and celebration as staff, students and distinguished guests gathered to honour the institution’s Founder, Chief Michael Ade Ojo, on the occasion of his 88th birthday.
The grand celebration, tagged “2026 Founder’s Day Celebration: Sports and Cultural Fiesta,” brought the university community together in an atmosphere of excitement, unity and pride, showcasing the institution’s enduring commitment to holistic education through the harmonious blend of academics, sports and cultural values.
Speaking during the event, the Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Professor Philip Oguntunde, emphasized the importance of developing well-rounded individuals, noting that sports, culture and academics constitute a powerful combination capable of producing responsible, productive and globally relevant citizens.
According to him, the university remains committed to nurturing students who excel intellectually while embracing the values of teamwork, discipline, creativity and cultural identity.
The Chairman of the Sports and Recreational Committee, Professor Babatunde Akanji, disclosed that the Sports and Cultural Fiesta was conceived through the combined initiative of staff and students as a platform to celebrate the Founder’s enduring vision and strengthen community spirit across the university.
This year’s celebration, themed “Echoes of Our Roots: A Celebration of Culture and a Battle of Pride,” lived up to expectations as one of the most colourful and engaging events in the institution’s history.
The Cultural Day Showcase turned the campus into a vibrant mosaic of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Students adorned in traditional attire from various ethnic groups thrilled the audience with captivating cultural dances, traditional performances, live musical renditions, indigenous cuisines and breathtaking exhibitions that reflected the country’s diversity and cultural wealth.
For hours, the university community was immersed in a carnival-like atmosphere as drums reverberated across the campus and colourful displays captivated spectators.
A major highlight of the celebration was the active participation of the Founder himself. Chief Michael Ade Ojo, accompanied by his wife and members of his immediate family, joined students and staff in the festivities, sharing moments of admiration and excitement as participants showcased remarkable cultural creativity and artistic excellence.
Visibly delighted by the performances and overwhelming display of unity, the renowned industrialist reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that empower young people and prepare them for leadership in an increasingly competitive global environment.
He expressed his determination to continue supporting programmes capable of transforming lives and producing globally competitive graduates, stressing that healthy competition, sportsmanship and cultural ingenuity remain invaluable assets in today’s interconnected world.
The celebration also featured the highly anticipated Founder’s Cup Inter-Faculty Sports Competition, which drew enthusiastic participation from students and staff across the university.
For three exhilarating days, faculties battled for supremacy in football, basketball and several other sporting and recreational events. Spectators thronged the sporting venues, cheering their teams in contests marked by skill, determination and exemplary sportsmanship.
The competition not only showcased athletic talent but also strengthened camaraderie, teamwork and inter-faculty relationships, further reinforcing the university’s reputation as an institution that promotes excellence beyond the classroom.
Among the highlights of the sporting fiesta were the staff athletics competitions, where academic and non-academic staff demonstrated exceptional fitness, enthusiasm and competitive spirit.
In the Deans of Faculties (Champions of Enthusiasm) category, Professor S.O. Gbadamosi of the Postgraduate School emerged winner, followed by Professor A.A. Akande of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Medical Sciences, while Dr. A. Okediji of the Faculty of Engineering came third.
The Heads of Departments race was won by Professor Crosby Taiwo of the Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences. Professor A.A. Akande secured second position, while Engr. A. Fawolu of the Physical Planning and Works Services Department finished third.
In the Senior Staff (Male) category, Dr. A. Fadahunsi emerged champion, with Dr. Ademola Oni taking second position and Mr. Ebenezer Adeojo placing third.
The Senior Staff (Female) race saw Mrs. Motunrayo Rotimi claim first position, ahead of Mrs. Esther Afolayan and Mrs. Mercy Oludoyi who finished second and third respectively.
For the Junior Staff (Male) category, Mr. Oluwaseun Olatunde emerged winner, while Mr. Gbenga Bankole and Mr. Michael Aruwa secured second and third positions respectively.
As the festivities drew to a close, participants described the event as a fitting tribute to a visionary founder whose investment in education continues to transform lives and expand opportunities for young Nigerians.
Beyond the glamour and excitement, the celebration served as a powerful reminder of the values upon which Elizade University was founded—academic excellence, cultural pride, unity, innovation and service to humanity.
The 2026 Founder’s Day Celebration ultimately stood as a vibrant affirmation of the institution’s identity and aspirations, bringing together generations of students, staff and stakeholders in a shared celebration of heritage, diversity and excellence.
For many in attendance, it was more than a birthday celebration; it was a testament to the enduring legacy of Chief Michael Ade Ojo and the remarkable journey of Elizade University as a world-class institution committed to producing future leaders equipped for national development and global impact.
