Prince Yemisi Shyllon, celebrated as Africa’s largest private art collector, has been conferred an honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc. Honoris Causa) in Creative Arts by the Tai Solarin University of Education in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, upon Shyllon marking his fourth honorary doctorate.
Renowned for his extraordinary contributions to the arts, Shyllon embodies the spirit of giving. His transformative philanthropy spans decades, from establishing the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art at Pan-Atlantic University to donating a digital law library to Crescent University, Abeokuta. Shyllon also gifted a statue of Sodeke, the founder of Abeokuta, to the people of Egbaland, further underscoring his dedication to cultural preservation.
During the ceremony, University Orator Dr. Kehinde Amore hailed Shyllon as a rare polymath whose passion for education, art, and philanthropy continues to shape Nigeria’s cultural landscape. Amore also commended Shyllon’s enduring support for African artists, his efforts to preserve cultural history, and his unwavering commitment to fostering opportunities for emerging talent.
In his acceptance speech, Shyllon articulated a philosophy rooted in altruism.
“Life’s true meaning lies in giving,” he declared. “It’s about planting seeds for trees whose shade we may never enjoy but will benefit others. Wealth becomes purposeful only when used to uplift lives.”
Quoting from philosophers, religious teachings, as well as his personal experiences, Shyllon emphasized the transformative power of generosity, challenging societal norms that prioritize materialism.
Shyllon’s impact extends beyond philanthropy. As the founder of the Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation (OYASAF), he also oversees Nigeria’s largest private art collection, comprising over 7,000 artworks and 55,000 photographs documenting the nation’s cultural festivals. OYASAF also supports global research, curatorial projects, and artistic scholarship, cementing its role as a beacon for cultural preservation.
Shyllon’s initiatives include endowing a Professorial Chair in Fine Art at the University of Port Harcourt and co-authoring a seminal book on Yoruba sculptor Lamidi Fakeye. Notably, his donation of 1,000 artworks, including the largest collection of Fakeye’s sculptures, forms the cornerstone of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art.
With his unparalleled vision, Prince Yemisi Shyllon exemplifies the power of art and philanthropy to transform society, inspiring future generations to embrace a legacy of giving.
