Pastor Tunde Bakare, a Nigerian cleric and alumnus of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has made a significant donation to his alma mater.
In celebration of his 70th birthday, Bakare presented a 6kVA solar power system to the Faculty of Law. This generous gesture, dubbed “Let There Be Light,” aims to alleviate the university’s energy challenges and promote sustainability. The unveiling ceremony took place on November 12, 2024, at the Tayo Aderinokun Hall, where dignitaries from the legal, political, and academic worlds gathered to honour the pastor’s philanthropic spirit.
The donation is a timely relief for UNILAG, which, like many public universities, faces rising electricity costs. In her speech, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa highlighted the significance of the solar power system, noting its potential to reduce the institution’s reliance on conventional energy sources.
“This will not only enhance the university’s operational efficiency but also contribute to environmental sustainability,” she said. The Faculty of Law, she assured, would ensure the system’s proper maintenance.
Among the distinguished guests at the event were Justice Kazeem Alogba, Chief Judge of Lagos State, and Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, SAN, Attorney-General of Oyo State. Fellow alumni, including Professor Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, and Mrs. Titilayo Akinlawon, SAN, also attended, showing their support for the initiative.
The event was further marked by cultural performances from law students who paid tribute to Pastor Bakare’s generosity with heartfelt poems, showcasing the admiration he commands within the university community.
Pastor Bakare’s contribution also extended to an annual prize of N250,000, which will be awarded to the best two graduating students of the Faculty of Law. This scholarship initiative reflects his belief in the transformative power of education. “Education is the light that transforms lives and communities,” he remarked during the ceremony.
The event was chaired by Professor Oluwatoyin T. Ogundipe, immediate past Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, who emphasized the importance of giving back to one’s alma mater. He praised Pastor Bakare’s vision and philanthropy, which, he noted, would have a lasting impact on the university and its students.
Bakare’s birthday celebration, marked by this powerful act of giving, underscores his ongoing commitment to education and social change. His legacy continues to grow, shining brightly through his contributions to both the University of Lagos and Nigerian society.
