Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, witnessed a historic moment on Saturday, 30th August 2025, with the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Josephus Institute of Earth Sciences (JIES) building. The magnificent edifice was donated by Chief Tunde J. Afolabi, MFR, D.Sc., Chairman of Amni Petroleum Group, in a landmark gesture of philanthropy and commitment to advancing education in Nigeria.
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including the Visitor of Redeemer’s University and General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, alongside his wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Folu Adeboye. Their presence underscored the spiritual and academic significance of the occasion, blending faith, education, and visionary leadership in one momentous celebration.
Chief Tunde J. Afolabi, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to God and reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to investing in education and research. He explained that the Josephus Institute of Earth Sciences was conceived as a hub for cutting-edge research and capacity building in geology, petroleum studies, and other earth sciences, aimed at producing graduates capable of solving Africa’s pressing energy and environmental challenges.
The building, equipped with modern laboratories, lecture halls, and digital research facilities, has been described as one of the most advanced in the region. Scholars and students of Redeemer’s University now have access to tools that will place them on par with their counterparts across the globe. Stakeholders at the event noted that such an investment could transform the university into a leading center for earth science research in Africa.
In his address, Pastor E. A. Adeboye praised Chief Afolabi’s vision and generosity, noting that education remains one of the most enduring legacies anyone can bequeath to society. He prayed that the institute would produce men and women who will contribute positively to Nigeria’s development, particularly in the critical areas of energy and sustainable resource management.
Similarly, Pastor (Mrs.) Folu Adeboye commended the endowment as a clear example of purposeful giving that would outlive generations. She highlighted the importance of empowering young people with world-class knowledge and skills, urging students of Redeemer’s University to make the most of the facilities provided through such uncommon benevolence.
Representatives of the university, in their goodwill messages, described the donation as a monumental turning point in the growth of Redeemer’s University. They emphasized that beyond the physical infrastructure, Chief Afolabi had also endowed key programmes within JIES, ensuring that both human and material resources are available to drive excellence.
Students of the Department of Earth Sciences expressed joy and excitement at the inauguration. Many noted that the new institute would not only improve their learning environment but also inspire them to pursue research of global relevance. They lauded Chief Afolabi as a mentor and benefactor whose legacy would continue to impact generations of scholars.
The atmosphere at the ceremony was filled with thanksgiving, as prayers of appreciation were offered for Chief Afolabi and his family, as well as for Pastor Adeboye and his wife. The university community collectively reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the vision of quality education, research, and innovation that the new building represents.
As the ceremony came to a close, Redeemer’s University once again expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chief Tunde J. Afolabi for his extraordinary generosity, describing him as a rare philanthropist who has merged his professional success with deep social responsibility. The Josephus Institute of Earth Sciences now stands as a lasting symbol of his vision, generosity, and devotion to knowledge.
