In a moment of profound academic reverence and cultural affirmation, Professor Toyin Falola, one of Africa's most celebrated intellectuals and cultural historians, was conferred with the prestigious Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) by Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUE), Ondo.
The conferment, which took place during the university's 35th Convocation Ceremony on Friday, marks yet another milestone in a career defined by monumental contributions to knowledge, scholarship, and the global rethinking of Africa's place in history and the modern world.
Widely acknowledged as a colossus in African and diaspora studies, Professor Falola's reputation is built on decades of scholarly distinction, mentorship, and cross-cultural dialogue. Holding the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, he has published over 150 books and more than 400 journal articles and book chapters, traversing disciplines such as history, philosophy, religion, literature, and politics. His work is revered not only for its breadth and depth, but also for its consistent effort to situate African epistemologies at the centre of global intellectual discourse.
In his acceptance address, Professor Falola captured the significance of the honour with a deeply philosophical and spiritually-grounded reflection. "I present myself to you today as more than an individual," he began. "My presence here is supported not by personal power but through the energies of our ancestors, my supportive community, and the guiding force of Olódùmarè, the Supreme Being."
Rather than view the honorary degree as a moment of rest or retirement, Falola interpreted the honour as a renewed charge to serve. "This distinction requires my ongoing dedication," he stated. "It stands as proof of our people's enduring spirit, the strength of our cultures, and the transformative power of knowledge. It is a reminder that the work of a scholar is not solitary, but a collective engagement—an intergenerational project of remembering, rebuilding, and reimagining."
Central to Falola's message was the Yoruba philosophical concept of àṣẹ—the divine force of authority, creation, and realization. Describing it as "the sacred energy that has guided my path," he emphasized that àṣẹ is not a passive inheritance but an active responsibility. "In Yoruba thought, we say 'kò sí ènìyàn tó lè dára dára ju àṣẹ Olódùmarè lọ'—No one can rise beyond the power of àṣẹ. It is what turns thought into creation and transforms intention into manifestation," he explained.
Falola urged his audience—particularly the graduating students—to embrace their own àṣẹ as instruments for social transformation and justice. "You carry àṣẹ too. Do not fear your power," he advised. "Your academic journey is not only about personal progress. It is a moral and cultural obligation to speak for the silenced, elevate the marginalised, and correct the distorted."
He continued: "The earth will rise to meet your feet when your steps follow the guidance of àṣẹ. Your words should bring healing. Your work should create enduring foundations. Your life should reflect the greatness that resides in you. Let your àṣẹ shape your decisions, fuel your aspirations, and inspire your contributions to society."
Offering a moving ìwúre (blessing), Professor Falola prayed for the continued success of the university: "May this university continue to be a beacon of hope, a stronghold of enlightenment, a sanctuary for seekers of truth, and a crucible for transformative ideas. May every lecture, every discussion, and every initiative be infused with àṣẹ—empowering the next generation not only to learn but to lead, to create, and to renew hope."
The university's decision to honour Professor Falola underscores its commitment to celebrating African excellence and intellectual achievement. By conferring the D.Litt on a scholar of his stature, AFUE also signals its alignment with global institutions that recognise the power of scholarship to transform societies.
Professor Falola's academic legacy is rivalled by few. From his groundbreaking work on Yoruba culture and philosophy to his extensive documentation of African colonial and postcolonial histories, his influence stretches across continents. His public lectures and keynote addresses continue to inspire thinkers in Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. He has supervised and mentored countless graduate students, many of whom now hold academic and policy leadership positions around the world.
Falola has also remained a passionate advocate for education in Africa, frequently challenging institutions to decolonize their curricula, reclaim indigenous knowledge systems, and invest in the full intellectual development of the continent's youth. His voice resonates as a moral compass, calling scholars, governments, and civil society to action.
In thanking the university for the honour, Falola reiterated the importance of staying connected to one's roots while aiming for global relevance. "We are bridges between generations—those who walked before us and those yet to come," he said. "Let us remember the Yoruba proverb: 'Ẹnìyàn ní òrìṣà'—the divine reveals itself through human beings. We must channel our àṣẹ toward building a fairer, more inclusive world."
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