The EFA-F 15th Annual Lecture: Acting Responsibly in a Time Like This

On Thursday, 28th August 2025, the Esther Folorunsho Ayantayo Foundation (EFA-F) successfully hosted its 15th Annual Lecture, marking another milestone in its enduring commitment to ethical leadership, social responsibility, and compassion-driven engagement within Nigerian society.

The lecture was held at Room 32, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and convened scholars, professionals, students, and members of the public for a reflective and intellectually stimulating discourse on the theme:

“Acting Responsibly in a Time Like This.”

A Platform for Ethical Reflection and Public Engagement

The Annual Lecture, a flagship initiative of the Foundation since its inception, has over the years become a respected platform for addressing pressing moral, social, and leadership challenges confronting contemporary society. The 2025 edition was particularly timely, engaging critical questions of responsibility, integrity, and ethical agency in an era marked by economic pressures, institutional fragility, and social uncertainty.

The event was anchored in the Foundation’s long-standing vision of fostering ethical influence, compassionate action, and social accountability, especially on behalf of the vulnerable and often forgotten segments of society.

Distinguished Personalities and Thoughtful Contributions

The programme featured a strong lineup of distinguished scholars and administrators whose contributions enriched the conversation.

The Guest Speaker, Dr. Mary Bosede Aiyetoro, delivered a compelling and intellectually rigorous lecture that interrogated the meaning of responsible action within both personal and institutional spheres. Drawing from ethical theory, lived social realities, and professional experience, she challenged participants to move beyond rhetoric to principled action, emphasizing moral courage, civic duty, and accountability as non-negotiable virtues in times of societal strain.

The lecture was moderated by Dr. Temitayo Ayantayo, Secretary of the EFA-F Board of Trustees, whose thoughtful moderation ensured a coherent flow of ideas and productive engagement with the audience.

The event was convened under the leadership of Prof. J. K. Ayantayo, President of the EFA-F Board of Trustees, whose opening remarks reaffirmed the Foundation’s mission and reflected on its fifteen years of consistent service to society.

Institutional Support and Organisation

The success of the lecture was made possible through the dedication of members of the Board of Trustees and Advisory Committee. Special recognition was given to:

• Prof. J. K. Ayantayo – President, Board of Trustees
• Prof. Diji Aina – Adviser, General Logistics
• Dr. Femi Adefila – Adviser, Media and Publicity

Their collective efforts ensured a well-organized, intellectually rewarding, and impactful event.

Fifteen Years of Ethical Influence

The 15th Annual Lecture also served as a moment of reflection on the Foundation’s journey since its establishment. Over the past 15 years, EFA-F has remained steadfast in promoting compassion for the forgotten and ethical influence within society, staying true to its founding ideals while responding creatively to changing social realities.

Conclusion

The 2025 Annual Lecture reinforced the enduring relevance of ethical responsibility in public life and personal conduct. Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation of the role individuals and institutions must play in shaping a more just, humane, and accountable society.

As the Esther Folorunsho Ayantayo Foundation looks ahead, the 15th Annual Lecture stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to moral reflection, social engagement, and transformative influence in Nigeria and beyond.

Download the lecture slide