Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has congratulated Professor Emeritus Seth Sunday Ajayi, an eminent scholar, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onowu Muhammed, the governor commended Professor Ajayi for his remarkable achievements and acknowledges the honor he has brought to Kogi State through his illustrious career.
“On behalf of the people and government of Kogi State, I extend our warmest wishes to you on your 80th birthday. We are grateful to the Almighty God for guiding you throughout your journey to reach this significant milestone in life. It is a remarkable occasion that deserves both celebration and felicitations.
“Your long and illustrious career as a distinguished scholar, dedicated to academic pursuits, has brought great honor to Kogi State on a global scale. We particularly recognize your investiture as the first Professor of Wildlife Ecology in Africa, a testament to your outstanding contributions,” he said.
Governor Bello expressed prayers for the continued protection of the erudite Professor and highlighted the academic and humanitarian accomplishments that have characterized his life.
He emphasized that Professor Ajayi’s unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity, coupled with his self-discipline, has made a significant impact.
“Your life has been marked by academic and allied accomplishments, driven by self-discipline and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of humanity. Over the years, your pursuit of excellence has immensely contributed to the noble objectives of nation-building and securing a better future for Nigeria.
“As you celebrate this special day, I pray that the Almighty God will continue to protect you and grant you many more years of good health and vitality. We are indeed proud of you. Once again, congratulations, sir!”
Professor Seth Sunday Ajayi began his career at the University of Ibadan as an Assistant Training Fellow in Wildlife and Range Management at the Department of Forestry in 1968. Through his dedication and hard work, he ascended the academic ladder, ultimately becoming the First African Professor of Wildlife Conservation at the University of Ibadan in 1980. He also played instrumental roles in the establishment of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management and served as the pioneer Head of the Department from 1981 to 1988. Furthermore, he held the position of the Pioneer Dean of the College of Environmental Resources Management at the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
Throughout his remarkable career, Professor Ajayi has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the “Global 500 Roll of Honor” award by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) for his outstanding achievements in environmental protection. In 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan conferred upon him the Nigerian National Order of Merit, a testament to his exceptional contributions.
Born on May 16, 1943, in Mopa, Kogi State, Professor S.S. Ajayi’s 80th birthday will be celebrated by his family, friends, and associates on Saturday, May 27, 2023.
