Six representatives of the Parliament, who travelled to the University all the way from Ghana including the Speaker, Kewul Abel, presented the award to Professor Popoola at a reception held in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office at the Main Campus of the University in Osogbo.
Abel, who led the delegation as the Speaker of the Parliament described Professor Popoola as exemplary leader worthy of emulation.
He said: “On behalf of students from the 54 registered member countries of the African Students Union Parliament (ASUP), I want to welcome everyone of us to this very important epoch making ceremony of conferring honor on a man of honor, an intellectual juggernaut, a
man with magnificent experience when it comes to public service best practice, a seasoned public servant. I am talking about the remarkable Prof. Labode Popoola, a rare gem, an administrative icon and outstanding public servant of impeccable credentials.”

He said Professor Popoola was carefully selected for the award in view of his outstanding achievements and sterling contributions to education of youths in Africa even as he described him as a mentor and role model for all the youths across the African continent.
“Our recipient for today is a detribalized Nigerian, lover of students/Youths and charismatic personality whose credible credentials of efficient service delivery, high administrative acumen, financial prudence, dedicated leadership, patriotism, nation building, educational development and community service yet unsung marks him an iconic patriot in our African society worthy of emulation,” he added.

In his response, Professor Popoola expressed his appreciation of the honour and pledged to continue to uphold the best standard practice in conduct of affairs. “I do appreciate honour and recognition but I appreciate it more when it comes by surprise as happening today. I want to commend the efforts of the parliament in promoting and encouraging excellence and good leadership in Africa. Of course, I am always prepared to support the efforts of this body in achieving sustainable peace, development and economic stability of our dear continent,” Professor Popoola said.