By Is’haq Babatunde
The authority of the Kwara State University on Wednesday, (November 20, 2024), celebrated the life and legacy of the late Professor Muhammed Mustapha Akanbi SAN with the presentation of a Festschrift, titled “Footprints of a Giant”.
In his address at the well attended occasion, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Jimoh, described Professor Akanbi as a man whose legacy has shaped the foundation of the university.
“Today, we are not merely presenting a book; we are honouring the enduring legacy of the late Professor Muhammed, Mustapha Akanbi SAN.
“Professor Akanbi’s tenure as Vice Chancellor from 2020 to 2022 was marked by an unwavering commitment to fairness, academic excellence, and the holistic development of students. His leadership had a lasting impact on the university, establishing a foundation that still guides it today, Prof Jimoh said.
The Vice Chancellor explained that the Festschrift presentation was in recognition of Professor Akanbi’s influence, which went far beyond his formal role, adding that he was a philanthropist who left an indelible impact on everyone who had the privilege of encountering him.
Professor Jimoh expressed his gratitude to the contributors to the publication, the editorial team, and the distinguished book reviewer, Professor Joshua Olukayode Olatoke SAN.
Reviewing the book, Prof. Joshua Olatoke SAN of the faculty of Law University of Ilorin said the book captured late Prof Akanbi’s attributes and philosophy of life, describing him as a committed, diligent, hardworking and God fearing legal icon.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion, Professor Musbau Adewumi Akanji FAS, said the event was principally to celebrate late Prof M. M. Akanbi SAN in recognition of his invaluable contributions towards the development of KWASU, and humanity in general.
Unveiling the book at the event, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin and current Pro-Chancellor of KWASU, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali extolled the virtues of late Akanbi SAN, saying that he had worked with him in various capacities at the University of Ilorin and found him very useful, helpful, dependable and loyal.
Responding on behalf of the family, Alhaji Muhammad Bashir Ore appreciated the university community for honouring late Akanbi with a book presentation and thanked everyone that came from far and near to attend the well attended occasion for gracing the event with their presence.
The Festschrift presentation was a celebration of Professor Akanbi’s life, legacy, and contributions to academia, the legal profession, and society. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations.
Professor Akanbi’s remarkable achievements include becoming a professor at the age of 41, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) at 47, and Vice Chancellor of KWASU at 49 . His legacy continues to inspire generations, and the Festschrift presentation x-trays his enduring impact and contributions to life.
In attendance included all Council members of the institution, the amiable wife of late Professor Muhammed Mustapha Akanbi SAN, Barrister Shakirat Folake Akanbi, among several other family members, friends and admirers of late Akanbi.
