BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) will confer honorary doctorate degrees upon four distinguished individuals, including Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo, Chairman and CEO of Wessy Group, during its 16th Convocation Ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2024.
This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to their respective fields and significant impact on society.
Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo, known for his leadership in tailoring and fashion, will receive an Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc. Honoris Causa) in Clothing and Textiles.
His company, Wessy Creations, based in Abeokuta, Ogun State, is a leader in the fashion industry, boasting a large collection of advanced tailoring technologies and a commitment to training young tailors.
In addition to his work in fashion, Otunba Taiwo is the proprietor of Wessy College of Arts and Technology and serves as the National President of the Tailors Association of Nigeria (TAN).
The announcement, signed by TASUED’s Registrar, Mr. Sunday Oladapo Oke, highlighted Otunba Taiwo’s role as a celebrated entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community icon whose world-class designs and leadership have earned international acclaim.
The institution described Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo as a celebrated entrepreneur, distinguished business leader, Phillantropist, and Community Icon.
“Otunba Jayeola Wasiu is one of the pioneers in the textile and fashion industry. His world-class designs have garnered international acclaim, and his leadership within the industry is a testament to his dedication to excellence.
“Wessy Creation as he is fondly called is the Proprietor of Wessy College of Arts and Technology, Abeokuta, Ogun State and National President of the Tailors Association of Nigeria (TAN). Otunba Taiwo is to be awarded, a D.Sc. in Clothing and Textiles”, the release added.
Otunba Wasiu Taiwo also serves as Chairman/Chief Executive of entities such as Wessy Creation Ltd., Wessy College of Arts & Technology, Continental Suite & Hotels, Wessy Creation Fashion & Designs, Wessy Tailoring & Vocational Institute, and Chicken Continental.
Other honorary degree recipients include Prince Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi, founder and CEO of SIFAX Group, who will be honored with a D.Sc. in Entrepreneurship.
Prince Afolabi’s visionary leadership has propelled SIFAX Group to become a prominent conglomerate in sectors such as maritime, aviation, hospitality, and oil and gas.
His exceptional business acumen has earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most influential entrepreneurs.
Prince (Dr.) Oluyemisi Adedoyin Shyllon, an art collector and advocate for Nigerian arts, will be awarded a D.Sc. in Creative Arts. Shyllon, with a diverse professional background in engineering, law, and stockbroking, is a renowned figure in the global arts community and is recognized for promoting Nigerian art and culture.
Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi, an entrepreneur with a background in petroleum engineering, will be conferred with a D.Sc. in Hospitality Management. Sanusi’s ventures extend beyond oil and gas into education, agriculture, and hospitality, with Ilaji Hotels and Holiday Resorts standing as a testament to his success.
His ongoing support for TASUED’s student leadership programmes further exemplifies his commitment to education.
TASUED recognizes these honourees not only for their individual achievements but also for their contributions to society.
The conferral of honorary degrees underscores the University’s dedication to excellence and its admiration for those who inspire others through their work.