A MAN of integrity, discipline and high principles, with strong Christian and family values, the late Dr. Adeboyega Oyebanjo Okunuga was a well-respected role model and an inspiration to many.

He was born on May 12, 1948 in Lagos, Nigeria, to Chief Okuyiga. He was the fourth of nine children. He grew up in Lagos Island where he attended St. John’s School Arolya, Lagos, from 1954 to 1961 and proceeded to do his secondary education in Fiditi Grammar School, Fiditi, Oyo State from 1961 to 1966. He also attended the Federal School of Science, Onikan, Lagos between 1967 and 1969 where he obtained his A’ Levels.

Okunuga moved to the United States of America on a Western Nigeria Education Scholarship in 1971. He Obtained a B.A in Biological Science in 1974 from California State University, Fullerton California, and M.Sc also in Biological Science from California State Polytechnic University Pomona, California, in 1979 where he commenced a long career as an educationist.

He worked first as a teacher in Anglican Girls Grammar School Ijebu-Ode Nigeria from 1979 to 1980 and as Vice Principal, Remo Divisional High School, Sagamu from 1980 to 19892. In 1982, he joined the Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos as a lecturer and worked there until he retired in 2013 after 32 years of illustrious service.

Okunuga held different roles in the university including being head of Science Programme, DLI (1995 – 2013); Head of Security, DLI (2002 – 2013); Head of Staff Welfare and Social Committee, DLI (1986 – 2013) and member, Board of Governors, International School Lagos (2002 – 2004).

Apart from his roles in the University of Lagos, Okunuga also worked as a commissioner, Ogun State Schools Commission (1997 – 1998); Director, Gateway Hotel, Ota Ogun State (1995); member, Board of Governors, United High School, Ikenne, Ogun State (1984 – 2001).

Okunuga was a keen writer and researcher and had over 30 articles published in reputable local and international journals. His research work spans over herbal medicines, women development, adult education, nursing, distant learning, science and religious texts.

He was a keen musician and played at least three musical instruments including the saxophone. He sang in church choirs from his youth. He had a passion and a gift for poetry and had four published poetry books and many published articles. He also had a passion for children and youth development and worked as a Sunday School Teacher in the Chapel of the Healing Cross, Idi Araba, Lagos; Our Saviours’ Church, Ikenne; and Freedom Centre International, London. He pioneered many youth initiatives, including music clubs to aid music development.

Okunuga married his heartthrob, Mrs. Olutoyin Ogunyemi in 1981 and the marriage was blessed with seven children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He lived and exemplary family life that demonstrated his profound love for his wife, children and grandchildren.

He was a well-loved and respected man and had many nicknames including CeeDee, Uncle Cookie Monster, Professor Jejelayegba.

One year on, Okunuga is sorely missed, but the long, fulfilling and exemplary life he led continues to be an inspiration to many.

He is fondly remembered by his wife, children, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.