HIGH CHIEF GABRIEL AKIN-DEKO’S AUTOBIOGRAPHY, ‘I DRINK TO THE FUTURE’ TO LAUNCH FEBRUARY 19
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By: Ajape Sefiu A.
The much-anticipated autobiography of the late High Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Akin-Deko is set to be officially launched on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Queen’s Park Event Center, situated at the end of Corporation Drive, Trinity Ave, off Ligali Ayorinde Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Titled “I DRINK TO THE FUTURE,” the book, which highlighted his remarkable life, career, and contributions to society, will be unveiled at a grand ceremony under the distinguished chairmanship of Chief Pius Akinyelure, Chairman of the Board of Directors at NNPC Limited.
In an invitation jointly signed by Wale Babalakin, SAN, National President, Government College Ibadan, and Lanre Olubi, General Secretary, Government College Ibadan, the family warmly invites the general public to this momentous event, which will be a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of High Chief Akin-Deko.
Serving as the guest of honor at the event will be His Excellency, Chief Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Governor of Ondo State, while distinguished senator Dr. Femi Okurounmu will review the book.
Born in 1913, High Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Akin-Deko was a visionary leader and a distinguished achiever whose legacy spans education, agriculture, sports, and governance.
His lifelong connection with Government College, Ibadan—first as a student, then as a teacher, later as president of the Old Boys Association, and ultimately as a life patron—helped shape his disciplined and principled character, which became the hallmark of his career.
Akin-Deko’s political and administrative career saw him serve as Chairman of the Idanre District Council before rising to national prominence as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture in the Chief Obafemi Awolowo-led cabinet. During his tenure, his innovative agricultural policies and commitment to rural development earned him the title “King of Farmers”—an honor bestowed upon him twice in recognition of his contributions to the sector.
Beyond agriculture, Akin-Deko played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s sports landscape. He was the founding chairman of the National Sports Commission, laying the groundwork for the development of sports administration in the country. His influence also extended internationally, as he became the first African representative in the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), where he advocated for sustainable agricultural policies and food security in developing nations.
His contributions to academia were equally notable. At various points in his career, Akin-Deko was appointed Pro-Chancellor of both the University of Benin (UNIBEN) and the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), where he championed educational excellence and institutional development.
A revered statesman, scholar, and advocate for progress, High Chief Akin-Deko remained committed to Nigeria’s advancement until his passing in 1987. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reflecting a lifetime dedicated to service, innovation, and nation-building.
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