By Elizabeth Osayande

In a heartfelt tribute, the Government College Ibadan Old Boys Association, GCIOBA commemorated the legacy of the late Chief Gabriel Akin-Deko on Wednesday, unveiling his autobiography titled I Drink to the Future. The event celebrated Akin-Deko’s significant contributions to agriculture and public service in Nigeria.

Chief Akin-Deko, who passed away in 1987, was a prominent civil engineer and an influential figure in Nigerian agriculture. His roles included serving as the Minister of Agriculture in the former Western State legislature and the Regional Representative for Africa at the Food and Agricultural Organisation, FAO.

The event, attended by distinguished alumni, dignitaries, and admirers, encapsulated Akin-Deko’s journey from his birth in 1913 to his enduring impact on Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. “We have come to celebrate commitment to a cause,” said GCIOBA President Wale Babalakin. “Chief Akin-Deko never really left Government College till he died. His impact on agriculture in Western Nigeria in the 50s and 60s was unparalleled, and we owe him immense gratitude for his visionary leadership.”

Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, spoke virtually at the launch, highlighting Akin-Deko’s exceptional contributions despite his lack of formal agricultural training. “He was a man of rare intellectual acumen,” Adesina stated. “His work in the 1960s laid the foundation for agricultural self-sufficiency, making Western Nigeria a model of food security. His courage to resign as Commissioner of Agriculture when cocoa prices fell exemplified his deep integrity and commitment to farmers.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also paid tribute, recalling his discussions with Akin-Deko about the future of agriculture. “Our conversations revolved around food security and agricultural policies,” Obasanjo shared. “He was deeply passionate about the well-being of farmers and believed in agriculture as a pillar for national prosperity.”

Senator Femi Olurounmu, who reviewed Akin-Deko’s autobiography, described it as a meticulous account of a man who defied limits and pursued excellence. “His journey from Yaba Higher College to Brixton School of Building in the UK, and eventually into politics and public service, is a story of resilience and brilliance,” Olurounmu noted.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Pius Akinyelure, reiterated Akin-Deko’s significant contributions to agriculture and education. He remarked, “These farm settlements were designed to boost agricultural practices and enhance the local and regional economy. It is no coincidence that decades after his demise, Akin-Deko’s hometown today occupies a preeminent position in the farming and cultivation of cocoa in West Africa and the world.”

The event served to remind attendees of Akin-Deko’s lasting legacy and the importance of celebrating individuals who have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development.