IBADAN – The Nigerian Association for Biblical Studies (NABIS) on Wednesday at University of Ibadan, honoured Prof. Samuel Abegunrin for his contribution to the growth of Christianity in the country.
The ceremony, which took place at the Conference Centre and Hotels, attracted family members, friends and former students of the professor.
The event, which was used to kick-start the 27th Annual Conference of the association, witnessed citation, speeches, and the pouring of commendations and encomium on the honouree.
Mr Gbade Lana, the Commissioner for Information, who represented Gov. Abiola Ajimobi, lauded Abegunrin’s contribution to intellectualism and Bible studies.
He congratulated Abegunrin for the honour bestowed on him, and prayed God to grant him long life and good health.
Prof. Deji Ayegboyin, the Head of Religious Studies, University of Ibadan, eulogised Abegunrin for the role he played in the development of Bible studies and humanity.
“Abegunrin, in his contributions to the development of studies and intellectual advancement, was instrumental to my employment by the university,” he said.
Samuel Adeniyi and James Awoniyi, both of Omu- Aran in Kwara, described Abegunrin as “a father that cares for his family and a family man who takes care of his relatives’’.
They said Abegunrin’s pastoral career started at ECWA Church in Gboluoko after passing out from the Seminary on Dec.1, 1962.[eap_ad_2]
Mr Samuel Kolawole, who lived with Abegunrin, said: “He is well-respected in our village.
“We love him because of his quality teachings from the Word of God. He is always willing to stand out for the sake of the Gospel.”
Abegunrin, who thanked participants in the ceremony for honouring him, explained that he rejected the idea of the honour when it was first mentioned to him.
“I only accepted when NABIS members said that it is better for one to be celebrated while alive than in the graveyard.’’
Among the personalities who attended the event were Prof. Isaac Adewole, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.
Prof. Remi Raji –Oyelade, Dean of Arts, University of Ibadan, and Prof. Joshua Gwamna, NABIS president, also attended the event.
Abegunrin, a native of Omu-Aran, was admitted to the University of Ibadan in 1964 by Prof. Bolaji Idowu, the first African Head of Department of Religious Studies.
Married to Bejide, Abegunrin is blessed with children. (NAN)[eap_ad_3]
Biblical Students Association honours Abogunrin
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