Professor Emeritus Peter Adeniyi, former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), has launched the Professor Peter Olufemi Adeniyi Foundation (POAF), aimed at empowering individuals and advancing educational development through scholarships, research, policy reform, and innovation. The foundation was unveiled on November 7, 2024, at FUTA alongside his autobiography, Lifted.
While presenting the foundation, Board member Engr. Dare Ojo emphasized its mission to provide meaningful support to those in need. “Our goal is to empower individuals to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable success,” he stated. “This will be realized through scholarships, financial assistance, educational initiatives, skill development, strategic partnerships, capacity building, research, and policy development.” The foundation’s target beneficiaries include students, educators, educational institutions, and leaders in the education sector.
Dr. Funso Ayeni, who formally inaugurated the foundation, encouraged the public to support the initiative through donations, enabling Professor Adeniyi to fulfill the foundation’s objectives.
Chairing the event, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, represented by Dr. Goke Adegoroye, praised Professor Adeniyi’s life of sacrifice and selfless service. He noted that Nigeria’s progress relies on a motivated workforce, and that citizens driven by social change can contribute significantly to the nation’s development, as Professor Adeniyi has demonstrated through his career and now with the establishment of the foundation.
Former Obafemi Awolowo University Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Faborode, who reviewed Lifted, described it as “a gift to humanity.” He praised its flawless writing and inspiring narrative, chronicling Professor Adeniyi’s journey from a determined young man to a respected academic, mentor, and leader. He commended the decision to direct the book’s proceeds toward supporting the foundation.
Speaking at the event, FUTA Vice Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji lauded Professor Adeniyi as an outstanding administrator who left FUTA stronger in human and infrastructural capacity. She remarked, “His bold steps opened new vistas for FUTA, and his determination to elevate the university onto the global stage has set enviable standards we continue to uphold.” She expressed hope that his autobiography and foundation would inspire future generations.
In his welcome address, Planning Committee Chairman Professor Tunde Arayela highlighted Professor Adeniyi’s lasting impact on academia, describing him as a visionary leader, tireless worker, exemplary researcher, and prolific scholar. He called Lifted a testament to a purposeful life and the foundation a continuation of Professor Adeniyi’s commitment to societal progress.
Expressing his gratitude, Professor Adeniyi thanked attendees for their support, noting that although advanced in years, his journey of impact has only just begun. He promised to use the foundation to promote intellectual development and societal advancement.
A distinguished scholar and emeritus professor of Geo-Informatics at the University of Lagos, Professor Adeniyi served as FUTA’s Vice Chancellor from 2002 to 2006.
