* Historian and Educator:
- Prof. Ajisafe was a prominent Nigerian historian and educationist who contributed significantly to the study and understanding of African history.
- He began his teaching career in 1930 and later became a professor of history at the University of Ibadan.
* Historical Society Formation:
- In the 1940s, he founded the Nigerian Historical Society, which aimed to promote the study of Nigeria's history and disseminate knowledge about the country's past.
- The society played a crucial role in encouraging research and publications in African history.
* Historical Writings and Publications:
- Prof. Ajisafe authored several influential books and articles on African history, including "History of Abeokuta" (1924), "The Laws and Customs of the Yoruba People" (1924), and "History of Nigeria" (1929).
- His writings focused on the cultural, social, and political aspects of Nigerian and African history.
* Preservation of Oral Traditions:
- He emphasized the importance of oral traditions in reconstructing African history. He conducted extensive research and documented oral accounts from elders and traditional storytellers, providing insights into the pre-colonial societies of Nigeria and Africa.
* Academic Leadership:
- Prof. Ajisafe served as the first Nigerian principal of Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, as well as the first Nigerian head of the History Department at the University of Ibadan.
- He was a respected mentor to numerous historians who later became prominent scholars.
* African National Movement:
- Ajisafe was not only an academic but also an active participant in the Nigerian nationalist movement.
- He was involved in several anti-colonial organizations, including the Nigerian Youth Movement and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons.
* Promoting African Identity:
- Through his writings and public engagements, Prof. Ajisafe sought to promote a sense of African identity and raise awareness about the continent's rich history.
- He challenged Eurocentric narratives and advocated for a more balanced and accurate representation of African history in education systems.
Overall, Prof. Adeagbo Akintola J. Ajisafe's contributions to African history and scholarship were significant. He played a crucial role in shaping the field of African history, promoting the preservation of oral traditions, and fostering a greater understanding of Nigeria and Africa's past.