Remembering Prince Ajibola Afonja’s life of service, leadership, impact

In the words of America’s 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt “the true hero is not the spectator who criticizes but the individual who takes action. The one who steps into the arena, faces challenges, and perseveres despite setbacks and failures.

“They are the ones who truly live, who experience the thrill of pursuit, and who, regardless of outcome, can hold their head high knowing they dared to try. For in the end, it’s not the critics who shape history, but the doers – those who strive, who risk, and who give their all to a noble cause.”

In this clan is Prince Sulaiman Ajibola Afonja, politician, industrialist, statesman and a community leader whose impact inspired and empowered generations.

Prince Afonja, a scion of the revered Afonja royal family, left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched. Through his remarkable journey, he embodied the essence of leadership, vision, and compassion. No wonder his friends, associates and family members gathered at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, recently at a Night of Tribute to bid him farewell.

Born into a family of esteemed lineage, Prince Ajibola was groomed from a young age to embrace the responsibilities that came with his royal heritage. He pursued his academic endeavours with zeal, acquiring adequate knowledge and wisdom as the bastion to his remarkable achievements.

His impactful life left many shocked when they learnt of his departure because Prince Ajibola’s impact extended far beyond his accomplishments. He inspired a generation of leaders who had been following his footsteps, embracing the values of compassion, integrity, and service. His legacy continues to motivate individuals to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the world.

The life of Prince Afonja was a masterful blend of purpose and compassion, a testament to the transformative power of selflessness and kindness. Through his unwavering dedication to serving humanity, he left an indelible mark in the hearts of countless individuals and the world at large, inspiring a legacy of love, hope, and generosity.

Ajibola, a pioneer industrialist, consummate politician and philanthropist extra-ordinary, passed away on May 19, 2024, at the age of 82. His demise sparked an outpouring of tributes from the high and low who celebrated his life, legacy, and impact on the community and the country.

Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu described him as an “icon of a man” and a blessing to humanity; a super patriot who loved Nigeria dearly and served his community selflessly. “His legacy would continue to challenge and inspire future generations,” said the clergyman.

Prince Afonja’s commitment to serving humanity was evident in various endeavours. He dedicated himself to promoting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment within his community. His selflessness and unwavering dedication earned him the respect and admiration of the young and old in and around Oyo town and indeed the whole of Oyo State.

The founding President of the Nigerian Ship-Owners Association, Chief Isaac Jolapamo recalled how the late Prince Ajibola prevented his deportation from the United Kingdom.

“He had been watching my back since our youthful days. He (as an elder brother) did the same when I was in the UK. At that time, he was working and another uncle of ours wanted to send me back to Nigeria because the uncle felt I was a stubborn person.

“He (the other uncle) was a military attaché and he thought I was instigating students in other military institutions against the government because they were withholding our entitlements. It was ‘broda mi’ (my elder brother, late Afonja) that came to save me. I was already at the airport awaiting deportation,” Jolapamo recalled with nostalgia.

Through his innovative ideas and collaborative spirit, he championed initiatives that fostered growth and development. He worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, ensuring that his community remained rooted in its heritage while embracing the possibilities of the future.

Through his several endeavours, he demonstrated commitment to service and leadership. He served as the Minister of Labour and Productivity; Chairman of First Bank, and contributed to the National Political Conference. His impact was felt across various sectors ranging from business to governance. In and around Oyo, he was more commonly referred to as Baba IDS, the brain behind the establishment of Integrated Dimensional Systems Limited, pioneer manufacturer of sanitary wares for bathroom and kitchen and bathroom.

Described as a colossus on many fronts during his more than eight decades sojourn on earth, he was an accountant of high calibre, an industrialist, a consummate politician and a board room guru who served in various capacities.

A lot of people whose paths crossed his saw him as a humanist, a selfless community leader and a philanthropist of no small measure and those who knew him personally remembered his kind, caring, and supportive nature.

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Mr. Semiu Adeyemi Adeniran recalled Afonja’s tenure as the minister and described him as a humble man who despite his wealth related very well with the poor.

Adeniran, who said he once rode in the deceased’s official car with him, said despite his affluence, he would sit with the poor in Oyo town to play ‘Ayo Olopon’, a popular carved wooden traditional game during which mental calculation and dexterity to outplay the opponent was often laced with witty jokes and banters.

Former Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Clement Haastrup described the deceased as a generous giver and humanist par excellence, who lived to serve Nigerians and humanity.

Chief Ike C. Ibe, a lawyer and politician recalled how Prince Ajibola helped him during his campaign for the governorship of Imo State. Alhaji Rasak Lawal, a bosom friend, shared deep memories of their enduring friendship.

Chief Don Etiebet described the news of Prince Ajibola’s death as a thunderbolt, striking him with profound sadness and depression. “Mr. Ajibola was a prince in every sense of the word,” Etiebet said. “He behaved like a prince, acted like a prince, and lived a life of nobility and grace. I doubt he had any enemies because he was so kind to everyone.”

Their friendship, which began in 1993, when they were both ministers in the Interim National Government, endured as a testament to the prince’s character and dedication. Etiebet reminisced about their collaborative efforts within the cabinet, highlighting Ajibola’s professionalism and commitment to the Nigerian people.

“Prince Ajibola was a trained accountant in Europe, where he worked for major UK and English companies before returning to Nigeria to build his own successful business empire,” Etiebet shared. “He was not just a colleague but a reliable friend who spoke with honesty and sincerity, always with a smile,” he recalled.

Etiebet also recalled the prince’s unwavering support when he became the chairman of the NNPP, emphasizing how Ajibola’s encouragement and wisdom were invaluable during that period.

Umar Kuta, another close friend and business associate, echoed these sentiments. Having known the prince since 2014, Kuta regarded him as not only a business partner but also a father figure. “Prince Ajibola was a man of honesty, uprightness, and profound faith in God,” Kuta said. “His presence and guidance have been pivotal in my life and career,” said Kuta, the managing director of Bionica Technologies Limited.

Mrs. Olabisi Ogunlabi, his personal assistant at First Bank, remembered him as a good father figure who monitored her progress and that of her children even after his retirement from the bank.

Indeed, the life and time of the deceased provided reasons for those who loved him to reflect on his life and honour his memory even as they prayed that the story of his life continue to inspire them to embrace their own potential to serve with purpose and to bequeath an enduring impact on the world.

The shock of Prince Ajibola’s demise is felt deeply by those who knew him. His legacy of integrity, professionalism, and kindness continues to inspire, reminding us of the impact one noble life can have on many. As friends and family gather to honor his memory, the words of Don Etiebet and Umar Kuta stand as a testament to a life lived with grace and a heart filled with generosity.