02/10/2026
Wesley VC Urges Nigerians to Live Lives of Impact at Akingbule’s Funeral
The Vice-Chancellor of Wesley University, Ondo, Rt. Revd. Prof. Samuel Sunday Obeka, has called on Nigerians to live purposeful lives and leave legacies that would continue to benefit humanity long after their departure.
The Vice-Chancellor made the call while ministering at the funeral service of the late High Chief (Sir) Dr. Olabanji Akinyomide Akingbule, MFR, CEng, M.I.C.E., JP, the Odunwo of Ondo Kingdom and Atunluse of Akure, held on Friday, October 2, 2026, in Ondo City.
Speaking from 2 Chronicles 26, Prof. Obeka drew lessons from the life of King Uzziah, who became king at the age of 16 and prospered as long as he sought God. He said the story underscored the importance of godliness, wise counsel, prayer and purposeful leadership.
The Vice-Chancellor described the late Akingbule as a man of vision, intelligence, generosity and compassion who was passionate about the development of society, particularly in his concern for widows, orphans, the needy and education.
According to him, the life of the deceased raises an important question for everyone: “What will you be remembered for?”
Prof. Obeka, who also referenced Proverbs 13:22, urged people to build legacies that would outlive them through service to humanity. Quoting James 1:27, he emphasised the responsibility to care for widows, orphans and the vulnerable, noting that a life of impact is one that leaves behind meaningful contributions to society.
He further charged those in positions of authority to consider the impact they are making, stressing that leadership should translate into service and positive change.
Reflecting on his own experience at Wesley University, the Vice-Chancellor recalled his emergence as Vice-Chancellor following an interview conducted by the University’s Conference and Governing Council. He recounted the challenges encountered upon assumption of office and how the University leadership sought divine intervention through prayer and fasting.
He noted that the University, which had an enrolment of fewer than 500 students at the time, has since grown to over 5,000 students, alongside ongoing infrastructural development.
Prof. Obeka highlighted some of the ongoing projects at the University, including the Medical and Allied Health Sciences complex, Engineering facilities, hostels and agricultural projects. He also acknowledged individuals who had contributed to the development of the University, including Hon. Abiola Makinde, for the donation of solar panels; Dr. Hakeem Oladipupo, popularly known as Jejenuwa, for his contributions towards the permanent site; and Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Oluwole, Jomolobu of Ondo Kingdom.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the contributions of former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, recalling projects such as the Mother and Child Hospital and other interventions that have impacted lives.
He called on government at all levels to give greater attention to youth employment, small and medium-scale enterprise empowerment, and the security of lives and property, particularly in view of the economic challenges facing many Nigerians.
Prof. Obeka also led the congregation in prayers and an invitation to accept Jesus Christ, declaring, “No Jesus, no life,” while urging the people to seek God and live lives worthy of emulation.
The service also featured prayers for the children of the deceased, traditional rulers and those in authority, as well as the continued peace, unity and development of Ondo Kingdom.
In a demonstration of support for education, the Akingbule family and Dr. Olusegun Mimiko made financial donations to Wesley University. Appreciating the gesture, Prof. Obeka said the funds would be judiciously utilised for indigent students scholarship for ministerial students of the University.
The Dean, College of Arts, Prof. Ayo Atowoju, also offered prayers for unity and divine direction for the family of the deceased.
Following the service, the congregation proceeded to the burial site, where the body of the late High Chief Akingbule were committed to the earth by family members, relatives, friends and associates.
The Vice-Chancellor thereafter prayed for the bereaved family and the congregation, asking God to grant them long life and enable them to live purposeful lives of impact and worthy legacies.
