Prof. Elizabeth Balogun Retires from Service at 70 Years

In a remarkable celebration of both milestones and thanksgiving, Prof. Elizabeth Abidemi Balogun bid farewell to public service as she marked her 70th birthday on March 2, 2024.

 Prof. Balogun, a doyen of Biochemistry and renowned as the spouse of the Fourth Substantive Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), reflected on her journey during a Retirement Thanksgiving Service held in her honour at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).

Borne out of the spirit of resilience instilled by her father in her formative years, Prof. Balogun stated in her testimony during the Service that her career trajectory traversed from a Biochemistry Teacher at the Medical School, University of Ilorin to attaining the prestigious rank of Professor in the same institution in the year 2000.

 According to her, her tenure in academia was not only marked by professional achievements but also by the unwavering support and guidance of her husband, Prof. Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun, whom she credited for teaching her the values of accountability, patience, and perseverance.

 In his sermon at the Thanksgiving Service, Rt. Revd. Emmanuel Adekunle, Anglican Bishop of Egba Diocese, commended Prof. Balogun for her commitment and highlighted the importance of nurturing relationships, emphasising that love transcends all challenges.

 He stressed Prof. Balogun’s continued relevance, even in retirement, citing her scholarly contributions as enduring testaments to her intellectual legacy.

In his expression of gratitude, Prof. Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun thanked God for the preservation of their family and acknowledged the support received from former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, in facilitating the hosting of the event at OOPL.

 He noted that despite the insistence of their children for a grand celebration, Prof. Balogun opted for a more subdued affair, demonstrating humility and grace in her transition to retirement.

 The Service was attended by esteemed personalities including the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde and wife, the Dean, College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), Prof. Iyabode Kehinde; immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Felix Kolawole Salako; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi and wife; Ag. Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga and wife along with other University dignitaries, colleagues, and well-wishers.

 Others were the representative of the Managing Director, Federal Medical Centre, Mr. Seun Olowoyo; representative of the Ogun State Head of Service, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Forestry, Mr. Timothy Olatunji; Elder Joju Fadairo; Surveyor Godwin Ogun and the Divisional Head, Southwest, Guaranty Trust Bank, Mr. Olajide Banjo, as well as several others within the academia and public space.

 As Prof. Elizabeth Abidemi Balogun embarks on a new chapter in her life, her legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations, reflecting the enduring impact of dedication, resilience, and service to others.

By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Olatoye Sanusi

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