The Federal College of Education (FCE), Abeokuta, has announced plans to honour prominent philanthropist and education supporter, Lion Chief (Dr) Sunday Babatunde Ajileye, with its prestigious College Distinguished Humanitarian Award as part of activities marking its 50th Founding Day Anniversary and 26th Convocation Ceremony.
The honour is scheduled to be conferred during the College’s 2026 Awards and Cultural Day Ceremony slated for Wednesday, February 10, 2026, at the COEASU Building within the institution, beginning at 3:00 p.m.
According to the institution’s management, the award is designed to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of education and the development of society through humanitarian service and community engagement.
Lion Chief Ajileye will be honoured alongside seven other distinguished personalities selected for their outstanding impact in various sectors, particularly in education, social development, and humanitarian services.
Other awardees listed for the 2026 College Distinguished Awards include Chief (Dr) Shefiu Alao Adekunle, Pastor Israel Bode Olajumoke, Chief Rufus Ishola Onilogbo, Alhaji Musediq Akande Adeniji, popularly known as Ike Anobi, and Dr. Abiola Akiyode- Afolabi
The college noted that the awards form part of its tradition of acknowledging individuals whose efforts align with its vision of promoting academic excellence, social responsibility, and community advancement.
FCE Abeokuta, established five decades ago, has continued to play a critical role in teacher education and manpower development in Nigeria, producing thousands of education professionals serving across the country and beyond.
Management of the college described the recognition of Ajileye as a reflection of his consistent commitment to supporting education and uplifting disadvantaged members of society through structured philanthropic initiatives.
Ajileye is widely known as the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of SIB Charity Foundation, as well as Julanky and Jularsem Companies and Waters Limited, organisations that have contributed to economic and social development.
Through the SIB Charity Foundation, Ajileye has supported numerous indigent students by providing scholarships, educational materials, and financial assistance aimed at helping them complete their academic pursuits.
Education stakeholders have often described his interventions as impactful, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds who might otherwise struggle to access quality education.
Beyond education, Ajileye has also been recognised for humanitarian support across communities, including welfare assistance, youth empowerment initiatives, and community-based support programmes.
He is a distinguished Melvin Jones Fellow of Lions International, a recognition reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional humanitarian service and dedication to improving lives.
Observers say the honour from FCE Abeokuta further reinforces his reputation as a quiet but effective contributor to educational and social development.
The college management stated that the Distinguished Awards were carefully considered to ensure that recipients reflect the institution’s core values of service, integrity, and societal impact.
The Awards and Cultural Day Ceremony is also expected to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional performances and exhibitions as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Members of the academic community, alumni, students, traditional leaders, and invited dignitaries are expected to attend the event, which forms a key highlight of the anniversary and convocation activities.
Education analysts have described such recognitions as important in strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and private sector contributors to national development.
They also noted that celebrating individuals who invest in education could inspire others to support learning institutions and student development initiatives across the country.
With the forthcoming honour, stakeholders say Lion Chief (Dr) Sunday Babatunde Ajileye joins a growing list of Nigerians being recognised for using their resources and influence to promote education and humanitarian service.
