Prominent Ijebus. #ijebu
1. Chief Obafemi Awolowo
Although Awolowo is often associated with the larger Yoruba group, he was born in Ikenne, a town that is part of the Ijebu Kingdom. He was a Nigerian nationalist and statesman, serving as the first Premier of the Western Region. He is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s founding fathers and a key symbol of Yoruba's omooluwabi virtues.
2. Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun
A business magnate and philanthropist, best known as the founder of FCMB and one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian banking. He was a philanthropist and a respected figure in Nigeria's banking industry.
3. Adeola Odutola
A notable industrialist and businessman who established one of Nigeria's first indigenous tire manufacturing companies. He was also a philanthropist and a key figure in Nigeria’s economic development.
4. Ayo Adebanjo
A respected Nigerian elder statesman and lawyer. He is one of the prominent leaders of Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organization.
5. Femi Otedola
A billionaire businessman and philanthropist, widely known for his investments in the oil, banking and shipping industries. He is also involved in several other business ventures and is one of the wealthiest Nigerian businessmen. His father, Sir Michael Otedola was a former governor of Lagos State.
6. Michael Adenuga
A foremost Ijebu man and billionaire with huge investment in the banking, oil and telecommunication business. His mobile phone network, Globacom is the second largest operator in Nigeria. He is a major sponsor of the annual Ojude Oba Festival.
Other notable Ijebus are award winning entertainers Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, Wizkid, Olamide and Adewale Ayuba. Doyen of the Nigerian film and theater industry, the Late Chief Hubert Ogunde, track star Tobi Amusan, Apala Maestro, the Late Chief Haruna Ishola and Waka Queen, Salawa Abeni.
Can you name a prominent Ijebu?
Photo credits: Wikipedia
