By Olufemi Timothy Ogunyejo

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Faculty of Education Boardroom at the University of Ibadan became the scene of a memorable and moving academic celebration—a send-forth ceremony honouring Professor Andrew Oshiotse Okwilagwe, a towering figure in African scholarship and a foundational influence in Publishing Studies in Nigeria.

Organised by the Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies (LARIS), the event was nothing short of magnificent—a convergence of elegance, eloquence, and emotion, celebrating a life devoted to knowledge, mentorship, and academic excellence.

A Celebration Wrapped in Class and Colour

The ambiance was regal, with soft classical music, hues of gold and emerald adorning the venue, and a deep sense of reverence pervading the air. This was not just a retirement ceremony; it was a homage to a life of impact, attended by scholars, students, family, and friends who have been touched by Prof. Okwilagwe’s intellectual generosity.

“A mentor of minds and a craftsman of knowledge whose legacy transcends the pages of academia,” remarked Professor Adegbesan Olufemi, Dean of the Faculty of Education, in a message delivered on his behalf by incoming Dean, Professor K.O. Kester.

Their presence underscored the moment’s gravity—a symbolic handover between academic generations united in honouring one of their finest.

Words as Testimonies, Praise as Poetry

The celebration was marked by glowing tributes and heartfelt reflections. Among the dignitaries was Professor Sunday Popoola, who described Prof. Okwilagwe as:

“The architect of academic archives, a lighthouse guiding generations of library and publishing scholars through the storms of scholarly uncertainty.”

Former student and the CEO of Extension Publications Ltd., Dr. Sunday Obiyinka, shared a deeply personal testimony:

“He didn’t just teach us publishing, he published in our hearts the essence of integrity, rigour and intellectual curiosity.”

A family member added a metaphor that captured the essence of his academic reach:

“A tree planted by rivers of wisdom, yielding fruits in every season of the academic year.”

The tributes continued with reflections from another mentee and academic entrepreneur, Dr. Ayodele Alonge, Publisher of Optimistic Scholar, who offered this heartfelt note from Europe:

“Professor Okwilagwe is a father and mentor to many of us. I studied publishing under him as part of the pioneer cohort of the Master of Publishing and Copyright Studies (MPCS) at the LARIS Department. His guidance helped me see beyond local boundaries and inspired me to launch both my academic and professional journey on the international stage.”

This tribute highlighted not only Prof. Okwilagwe’s intellectual influence but also his capacity to instil global vision in his students.

The Department Pays Tribute

Dr. Clement Adeniyi Akangbe, Head of Department and host of the ceremony, delivered a rousing welcome address. His words resonated with gratitude and institutional pride:

“We are gathered today not merely to bid farewell, but to honour a lifetime of excellence—to celebrate a man who has become synonymous with the soul of our Department.”

Dr. Akangbe further highlighted Prof. Okwilagwe’s pioneering work in establishing Publishing Studies as an academic discipline in Nigeria, and how his mentorship has cultivated a new generation of scholars transforming knowledge industries around the globe.

A Personal Reflection

As the author of this reflection, I cannot recount this day without invoking my own academic path. Professor Okwilagwe was not just a lecturer or supervisor to me; he was a mentor in every sense of the word. His signature red-inked feedback, rich with critique yet full of encouragement, helped shape not only my Master’s thesis but also my academic identity.

There were times of uncertainty, deadlines that loomed like mountains. Yet his calm, methodical guidance provided clarity and motivation. Today, as a Ph.D. student in Publishing, I carry his teachings like a lantern—lighting my path, guiding my steps.

A Scholar Speaks from the Heart

When the man of the moment finally took the podium, the room hushed into reverence. His voice, steady yet weighted with emotion, delivered words that will echo in our hearts:

“I am overwhelmed, deeply touched by the kindness shown here today. What began as a calling to teach has become a life’s mission—to elevate minds, inspire inquiry, and defend the dignity of documented knowledge.”

He extended heartfelt thanks to his wife and family for their unwavering support, and to colleagues and students who, in his words, “gave wings to my ideas and helped them fly.”

Beyond a Send-Forth: The Beginning of a Living Legacy

As the celebration drew to a close, one truth was undeniable: Prof. Andrew Oshiotse Okwilagwe’s name is etched not just in publications, but in people. He is a scholar whose impact transcends the classroom and the curriculum—a torchbearer, not just a teacher.

In the academic world, there are instructors.
And then there are luminaries.
Prof. Okwilagwe is the latter.

His light will continue to shine in the corridors of the University of Ibadan and beyond—in the lives, minds, and works of the many he mentored.

📸 View the Event Photo Album:
You can explore highlights from the send-forth ceremony here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/TNwR9KTTZqkKUVnv5

About the Author
Olufemi Timothy Ogunyejo is a Ph.D. student in Publishing at the University of Ibadan. He writes for Optimistic Scholar  on academic mentorship, knowledge production, and the role of publishing in African intellectual life.