When I think about the vision and purpose behind the Babalola Foundation, I cannot do so without acknowledging the profound influence of Aare Afe Babalola – a man whose life has been a living testimony of generosity, resilience, and leadership.
Aare Afe Babalola is not only one of Africa’s most celebrated legal icons and educationists, but also a tireless farmer, humanitarian, and philanthropist whose impact transcends borders. Through Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), his vast agricultural initiatives, and countless philanthropic efforts, he has redefined what it means to serve humanity. He has shown that true wealth is not measured by what we keep, but by what we give back to uplift others.
Growing up and watching his journey, I took notes – not just from his successes, but also from his discipline, courage, and refusal to accept limitations. Aare Babalola has always embodied the principle that knowledge should empower, wealth should circulate, and every individual carries the responsibility to make the world a little better than they met it.
As one of the biggest farmers in Africa, he demonstrates that philanthropy is not confined to financial giving alone – it is about sustainability, empowering communities with food, education, and opportunities to thrive. His life proves that success and service must go hand in hand.
For me, his story has been a compass. The Babalola Foundation was born out of the values I observed in him: vision, selflessness, and the courage to believe that one person can ignite change for many. Every scholarship we grant, every young leader we mentor, every community we serve, carries a piece of that legacy forward.
Aare Afe Babalola has shown us that greatness is not in titles or accolades but in impact. His example challenges me daily to ensure that philanthropy is not just an act, but a lifestyle.
The world needs more visionaries like him. And I, along with the Babalola Foundation, am proud to walk humbly in his footsteps—taking from his notes, but writing a new chapter of hope for generations to come.
-Michael Juwon Babalola
Founder, Babalola Foundation
