GNOU Celebrates Dr. Alabi’s Legacy of Service with Prestigious Nelson Mandela Award
By Abdulsalam Ibrahim Lahdan
The Global National Open University (GNOU) has honoured Dr. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi, a respected community leader, administrator, entrepreneur and advocate of sustainable development, with its prestigious Nelson Mandela Award.
The ceremony, which held on October 1, 2025, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, brought together dignitaries, scholars, and professionals from across the country. It was described as not just a celebration of excellence but also a recognition of resilience and impactful service to humanity.
In his address, GNOU’s International Advisor, Dr. Amb. Gafar Taliat Ola, explained that the award was instituted to honour individuals whose lives reflect sacrifice, integrity, and commitment to humanity.
“This honour is not about wealth or influence, but about the footprints left in communities and professions,” he said.
Taliat added, “It is about celebrating true legacies.”
Dr. Alabi, who has distinguished himself in grassroots empowerment, education, and socio-economic development, was described as an exemplary recipient. His contributions span community-based projects, leadership initiatives, and human capital development, earning him admiration for championing inclusive governance and social progress.
For many of his admirers, the award was long overdue. In his home community of Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government, Kwara State, Dr. Alabi has consistently stood out as a voice for equity, justice, and development.
While Dr. Alabi was the day’s highlight, the event also recognised other distinguished Nigerians, and two other foreigners, including Alhaji Ibrahim Abiodun and Engr. Oyeleke Lukman, whose works have made significant impacts in their respective fields. Their recognition underscored the diversity and credibility of the awards.
The event also featured a public lecture titled “Police and Cyber Crime Infection”, delivered by the Osun State Commissioner of Police, represented by the State Police Public Relations Officer, CP Ibrahim Gotan. The lecture highlighted the growing challenges of cybercrime in Nigeria and the urgent need for stronger preventive strategies.
Christie Doyin JP, who received the award on behalf of Dr. Alabi, described the recognition as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to humanity.
She noted that the honour was not just personal but also symbolic of the values of the community he represents.
By receiving the Nelson Mandela Award, Dr. Alabi joins a distinguished league of personalities celebrated for embodying Mandela’s ideals of courage, service, and moral integrity. For GNOU, the ceremony was another milestone in its mission to connect learning, leadership, and service while celebrating individuals whose legacies continue to inspire society.
Other awards received by Dr Oluwatoyin Alabi included World Record Breakers, Nigerian Integrity Ambassador Hall of Fame and IPHREC which were received by the duo of Christie Doyin JP and Rev Felix Ajide of Alabi’s Media Team.
