The College of Medicine, University of Ibadan's Management Team, including the Provost, Professor Olayinka Olusola Omigbodun FAS, joined the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale FAS mni, and other Principal Officers of the University in a heartfelt condolence visit to the family of the late Otunba Subomi Balogun at their family estate in Ijebu-Ode on Friday, 7th July, 2023. The visit was a poignant gesture to offer comfort and support to the grieving family as they mourned the loss of the renowned philanthropist and business mogul.
During the visit, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale FAS, mni, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, spoke warmly of the indelible impact made by Otunba Subomi Balogun's philanthropy, which has positively influenced the lives of countless individuals. To honour his enduring legacy, the University of Ibadan proudly named an edifice after him, the "Otunba Subomi Balogun International Conference Centre." The Vice-Chancellor encouraged the Balogun family to continue Baba's philanthropic endeavours and suggested the consideration of an endowment in the family's name as part of the University's 75th Foundation celebrations in November 2023.
In their response, Mr. Jide Balogun, representing the family, expressed deep appreciation for the long-standing relationship between his father and the University of Ibadan. He assured the University that the family is committed to upholding Otunba Subomi Balogun's philanthropic legacy and pledged to explore further partnerships with the institution to carry forward his impactful work.
During the visit, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Olayinka Olusola Omigbodun, led a heartfelt prayer for continued progress, protection, peace, and unity within the Balogun family. She extended profound condolences to the family for their irreparable loss. Professor Omigbodun assured the family that both the College of Medicine and the University of Ibadan would forever cherish the memory of the late Otunba Subomi Balogun for his significant contributions to society and would ensure that the legacies he had established would continue to thrive.
The University of Ibadan delegation, along with the Provost of the College of Medicine, were warmly received by the widow, Olori Abimbola Balogun, and the sons of the deceased, Messrs. Jide, Ladi, and Gboyega Balogun.
The delegation from the University of Ibadan consisted of:
- Vice-Chancellor, Professor K.O Adebowale, FAS, mni
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin.), Professor E.O Ayoola
- Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Oke Saliu
- Bursar, Mr. Adewuyi Popoola (represented by Mr. S. O. Olojede)
- Provost, College of Medicine, Professor Olayinka O. Omigbodun
- Deputy Provost, College of Medicine, Professor Ade Fatai Adeniyi
- Deputy Registrar/Secretary to the College of Medicine, Mr. A.E. Odedele
- Deputy Registrar, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Mrs. Morenike Afolabi
- Deputy Registrar, Council Secretariat, Mrs. Francisca Ayodele
- Principal Assistant Registrar, Directorate of Public Communication, Mrs. Adejoke Akinpelu
- Acting Managing Director, UI Ventures, Mr. Francis Akingbade
- Manager, Consultancy and Computer Services, UI Ventures, Mrs. Hellen Abu
- UI Principal Protocol Officer, Otunba Gboyega Badejo, FICA.
The College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and the entire university community stand in solidarity with the Balogun family during this time of mourning. Otunba Subomi Balogun's philanthropic legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched, and his contributions to the University and society at large will be fondly remembered.
