The Nigeria French Language Village (NFLV) in Badagry, Lagos, was on Tuesday an ambiance of joy and admiration as the entire academic staff members gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the life of the Director and Chief Executive Officer, Professor (Chief) Samuel Oladiipo Kolawole, and his wife Chief (Mrs.) Comfort Modupe Kolawole. The gathering was in honor of the couple’s recent recognition in Ekiti State, where they were conferred with the prestigious traditional titles as Otunba Akorewolu and Yeye Otunba Akorewolu of Ijurin Ekiti.
From the early hours of the day, the atmosphere of the academic arena where the event was hosted was that of festivity and glamour. Stating the purpose of the celebration, Dr. Akudo Ugwumba, the Dean of Studies in her opening remarks stated that, the news of the conferment of chieftaincy titles on Prof. Kolawole and his dear wife is in public domain and only five academic staff members was able to travel to Ijurin Ekiti to witness the ceremony. Since the couple was present in the village, the entire academia of the Nigeria French Language Village deemed it honourable to share in the joy by celebrating the couple. Row call at the gathering include Professors E. A. Adeniyi, M. O. Adesola, S. O. Ajayi, and F. A. Soyoye, Also present was the Acting Librarian, Dr. A. A. Adejo, and other lecturers including Dr. E. I/ Odoh, Dr. O. Atoyebi, Dr. Victor Atsaam, Mrs. Chidubem Akinyede, Mrs. Patience Olumese, Mr. Sunny Opara, Mr, Conneil Agboton, Mr. Wabi Bello, Mr. M. A. Sanni, Mr. J.O.K. Alabi, among others.
The colleagues exchanged pleasantry as they converged to pay tribute to a leader they described as visionary and inspiring. The celebration was not just about the chieftaincy titles, but also a collective acknowledgment of Professor Kolawole’s unwavering commitment to the growth of the institution and his hometown alike. In the course of the event, members of the academic staff took turn to deliver heartfelt congratulatory messages praising the Chief Executive Officer for his sterling leadership qualities, humility, and relentless drive to uplift both the Nigeria French Language Village and his native Ijurin community. Many recalled with fondness how they were gladly received in Ijurin, Ekiti State, during the traditional ceremony, describing the experience as warm, colourful, and deeply rooted in rich Yoruba culture. Several staff members expressed how proud they felt to witness firsthand the recognition of the Director’s contributions to the development of his hometown and the broader Ekiti community.
In his response, Professor Kolawole spoke with visible emotion and deep gratitude. He thanked the academic staff for their overwhelming show of support and for the kind words that resonated through the hall. Reflecting on the honor bestowed upon him, he emphasized that the chieftaincy title symbolizing a bringer of wealth and progress was not just a personal accolade but an inspiration to extend the same spirit of growth and prosperity to the Nigeria French Language Village. “As I have been recognized for bringing wealth into my hometown,” he said, “it is my promise to ensure that this institution, too, experiences positive changes and enduring development during my tenure”.
Standing proudly beside him, his wife offered her own words of appreciation. With warmth and grace, she thanked the staff and colleagues for the love and respect shown to their family. She described the recognition as both humbling and uplifting, noting that the outpouring of goodwill from the NFLV community made the honor even more memorable.
To mark the occasion, the academic staff presented the Director with a beautifully designed photo frame of the couple in in their chieftaincy traditional attire - a symbolic token of admiration and respect. Applause rend the air as the gift was unveiled, further underscoring the unity and joy that defined the celebration. The gathering concluded with a vibrant group photograph, capturing the radiant smiles and shared pride of everyone present.
The day will undoubtedly be remembered as more than a simple congratulatory event. It was a powerful testament to community spirit, cultural heritage, and the profound impact of a leader whose influence extends far beyond the walls of the Nigeria French Language Village.