Akure, Nigeria — Former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Professor Emeritus Peter Olufemi Adeniyi, has launched a new foundation aimed at empowering individuals and advancing educational development. The Professor Peter Olufemi Adeniyi Foundation (POAF) was unveiled on November 7, 2024, alongside his autobiography, titled Lifted, at a ceremony held at FUTA.
The POAF seeks to drive positive social change through initiatives focused on scholarships, research, innovation, and policy development. Speaking at the event, Engr. Dare Ojo, a member of the foundation’s board, emphasized that the foundation’s mission is to support those who need it most. “Our goal is to empower individuals to reach their full potential,” Ojo said. “Through scholarships, skills development, and strategic partnerships, we aim to create a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive.”
Targeted beneficiaries of the foundation include students, educational institutions, educators, and leaders in the education sector. Engr. Ojo highlighted that the foundation would provide financial assistance and foster capacity-building initiatives, ultimately promoting academic excellence and innovation.
Dr. Funso Aina, who formally unveiled the foundation, urged well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative through donations and other contributions to help Professor Adeniyi achieve the foundation’s objectives.
In his address, the event’s chairman, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, described Professor Adeniyi as a man of great sacrifice and selfless service. Represented by Dr. Goke Adegoroye, former Director General of the Bureau for Public Service Reforms, Adegbulugbe commended Adeniyi’s dedication to national development, stating that the country could only progress when its workforce is motivated by more than just financial rewards.
The event also featured a review of Professor Adeniyi’s autobiography by Professor Michael Faborode, former Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University. Faborode described Lifted as “a gift to humanity,” highlighting the inspiring life story of a man who overcame challenges to become a respected educator, mentor, and leader. The book’s proceeds will go toward supporting the foundation’s activities.
FUTA’s current Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, praised Professor Adeniyi for his outstanding contributions to the university, noting that his leadership between 2002 and 2006 had a lasting impact on the institution. “His bold steps put FUTA on the global map and established a legacy of excellence that we continue to uphold today,” Oladiji said.
In his remarks, Professor Adeniyi expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support shown at the event, noting that despite his advancing age, he remained committed to leaving a lasting legacy through the foundation. “My life of impact is just beginning,” he said, pledging to use the foundation to contribute to the intellectual and social development of society.
Peter Olufemi Adeniyi, a distinguished scholar and emeritus professor of Geo-Informatics Systems at the University of Lagos, served as Vice Chancellor of FUTA from 2002 to 2006. His autobiography and newly launched foundation are set to continue his legacy of educational excellence and national development.
