Celebrated African historian and scholar Prof. Toyin Falola has awarded the prestigious Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Prize for Distinguished Public Activism and Service to Dr. Oyebola Ayeni, the Registrar of Lead City University in Ibadan. This honor acknowledges her brave advocacy, commitment to humanitarian service, and unwavering dedication to advancing the rights and welfare of women in society.
The accolade was presented during the Toyin Falola @73 Conference held in January, which attracted prominent scholars, policymakers, activists, and development practitioners from Africa and beyond.
In announcing the award, Prof. Falola remarked that the Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Prize is designated for Africans who have excelled through their selfless endeavors and principled activism, particularly in the realm of women's rights.
“The Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Prize for Distinguished Public Activism and Service is awarded to an African who has notably advanced the cause of humanity in various capacities, especially regarding women’s rights. The recipient must have shown a deep commitment to advocating for the voiceless and collaborating with others for the advancement and welfare of women,” stated Falola.
He characterized this award as a tribute to one of Africa's leading feminists, educators, and public figures, pointing out that Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti's legacy continues to motivate generations striving for justice, equality, and societal transformation.
“I am honored to convey that you are the award recipient,” Falola proudly announced.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Ayeni expressed her profound gratitude for receiving an award that bears the name of one of Africa's most prominent nationalists and advocates for women's rights, describing the recognition as both humbling and significantly impactful.
“This award acknowledges courageous service, dedicated advocacy for the underrepresented, and a steadfast focus on the welfare and advancement of women in society. Being associated with the legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is a privilege I hold dear,” she remarked.
Dr. Ayeni further emphasized that this recognition bolsters her commitment to collaborating with others to promote equity, inclusivity, mentorship, and opportunities for women and youth across various institutions and communities.
“I accept this award with heartfelt appreciation and renewed responsibility to work towards a more just and inclusive society,” she concluded.
The event also celebrated Prof. Kabiru Aderemi Adeyemo, the Vice-Chancellor of Lead City University, who received the 2026 Thabo Mbeki Award for Excellence in Leadership, acknowledging his significant contributions to institutional advancement and leadership excellence.
Dr. Ayeni expressed her gratitude to the organizers of the Toyin Falola @73 Conference, the University of Texas at Austin, and Lead City University for providing the honor and platform.
“I share this award with every woman whose strength inspires change and every ally dedicated to creating a fairer society,” she asserted.
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