The founder of Southwestern University, Babatunde Odufuwa, has called on individuals to cultivate strong visions, remain steadfast and embrace perseverance as essential ingredients for achieving meaningful success in life.

Odufuwa made the call as he marked his 70th birthday at White Stone Event Place on Saturday in Lagos.

The celebration featured presentation of his two books, ‘My Life: Exciting twists, turns, grace and triumphs’ and ‘A Search for Unity in the African Church,’ publications that explore personal experiences and the quest for unity within The African Christian community.

Reviewing the books, a professor of Molecular Plant Pathology and Vice Chancellor, Southwestern University, Adetunji Amusa, said: “I have known the author for 20 years. He is a visionary leader, full of wisdom, who remains focused once convinced of a worthy cause.

“He is a visionary leader committed to empowering millions of youths through quality education.”
He hailed the author’s contribution to literacy, noting that, a person’s wealth “would not be measured by his contribution to development of humanity.”

While delivering his remarks on the occasion as the Chairman, Prof Doyin Awoyale, a legal scholar and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, hailed Odufuwa for his entrepreneurship feat and contributions to the nation’s growth and development.

The first book, My Life: Exciting Twists, Turns, Grace and Triumph, focuses on the unpredictable nature of life’s journey, where setbacks, unexpected developments and difficult circumstances often test an individual’s determination to succeed.

Its central themes speak to the importance of maintaining a clear sense of direction, learning from life’s experiences and refusing to surrender to challenges that may temporarily obstruct the path to success.

The publication also offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of faith, perseverance and grace in navigating life’s uncertainties, particularly when circumstances appear unfavourable.

Odufuwa emphasised that “success is rarely achieved without difficulties. Rather, the ability to remain focused on a worthwhile goal, adapt to changing circumstances and learn from setbacks often determines how individuals respond to adversity.”

In Odufuwa’s second book, A Search for Unity in the African Church, he addresses a subject of considerable importance to the Christian community.

The book’s theme draws attention to the need for greater understanding, cooperation and a shared sense of purpose among Christian denominations and institutions across Africa.

The quest for unity remains relevant to the Church’s mission, particularly in strengthening Christian fellowship and encouraging collective responses to the moral, social and spiritual challenges confronting society.

Through its central theme, the publication invites reflection on how Christians and church leaders can bridge differences, strengthen relationships and work towards common objectives without necessarily abandoning their distinctive traditions.

The event which started with a thanksgiving service at the Africa Church, Cathedral Salem, Ebute Metta had the sermon delivered by the Rt Revd Prof Dapo Asaju.

The event brought together family members, friends, associates and well-wishers had Hon. Tosin Odufuwa, Obi Cubana, Mr Segun Akano, the founder and Managing Director, Upper Link Limited and other distinguished guests and professors who shared memorable moments at the 70th birthday celebration.