Leadership Beyond Politics: UI SRC Honours Hon. Abiodun Babalola with Award of Excellence
Oyo lawmaker, keynote speaker at Odidiomo Students’ Legislative Summit, charges youths to embrace service-driven leadership
The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Ibadan has honoured Hon. Abiodun Babalola, PhD, popularly known as “Mr Integrity”, with an Award of Excellence for his commitment to youth development, public service and leadership mentorship.
The award was presented to the Oyo State House of Assembly member representing Ibadan North East Constituency 01 during the Odidiomo Students’ Legislative Summit, where he also delivered the keynote address before students, public office holders and other stakeholders.
Held under the theme, “The Service Paradigm: Transforming Mindsets for Service-Driven Leadership in Nigeria,” the summit focused on leadership, representation, civic responsibility and the role of young Nigerians in shaping the country’s future.
In his keynote address, Babalola challenged the students to make purposeful use of their youthful years through self-development, community engagement and preparation for responsibilities capable of producing positive change in society.
He stressed that leadership should not be viewed solely through the pursuit of political office, but as an opportunity to solve societal problems, champion the interests of the people and leave a lasting positive impact.
According to him, meaningful representation rests on four key pillars: preparation, integrity, knowledge and genuine commitment to public welfare.
The lawmaker commended the organisers of the summit for creating a platform where young Nigerians could engage directly with questions surrounding governance, leadership and democratic participation.
He described the forum as an opportunity for students to better understand the responsibilities that come with public office, urging them to carry the lessons beyond the classroom and into their communities.
Speaking on developments in Oyo State, Babalola highlighted what he described as the strides recorded under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, presenting the state’s governance experience as a reference point in contemporary leadership discussions.
He also expressed support for Makinde’s ambition for a larger role on the national stage, while encouraging youths who share the vision to take a more active interest in political and civic affairs.
The summit provided students with an opportunity to interact with public officials and discuss the place of young people in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting service-oriented leadership.
The SRC’s recognition of Babalola further underscored the growing connection between student leadership development and broader national conversations around representation, accountability and public service.