Jonathan, OBJ, others congratulate Mabogunje at 80

PresidentGoodluckJonathan has congratulated a retired don of the University of Ibadan, Professor Akin Mabogunje, as he clocks 80 today.President Jonathan, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati, recalled the numerous contributions of Professor Mabogunje in the field of geography and urban planning in Nigeria and Africa, serving at various times in government and more recently as the chairman, Presidential Technical Committee on Land Reform in Nigeria.The president said his commitment, dedication, contributions and achievements hd earned him well deserved respect and recognition, adding that he was a distinguished scholar and teacher whose exemplary life was worthy of emulation by the younger generations.Also, prominent Nigerians, including former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, poured encomiums on the former university don.Speaking at a book launch, 'Measure of Grace: Autobiography of Akinlawon Mabogunje,' organised by the Foundation for Development and Environment Initiatives (FDI), at the University of Ibadan, as part of activities to mark his 80th birthday, Chief Obasanjo described Professor Mabogunje as a true Nigerian, who had contributed immensely to the development of the country.Others who spoke at the book presentation were the representative of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade; the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarinwa; Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, ex-governors of Ondo and Oyo States, Dr Olusegun Agagu and Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala.The Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, represented by the Otun Olubadan, Chief Omowale Kuye and General Raji Rasaki, among others.Professor Mabogunje, speaking on the occasion, said said poverty was the greatest challenge facing Nigerians, adding that the country had continued to make some institutional mistakes, some of which he termed non-empowerment of the people.Mabogunje called for the review of local government administration in the country, to allow for even development.
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