In a world where integrity, philanthropy, and good leadership are increasingly rare, HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, the Onirete of Irete Ijebu, Ogun State, stands tall as a shining example of excellence, as he redefines the role of traditional leadership as the key pivot of grassroots development.
From his days leading one of the most successful Estate Surveyor companies in Lagos, to his recent life as a royal father, HRH
Olusegun Awokoya has continued to leave footprints of astute leadership qualities and positive transformation, which are very visible in the successes he has achieved in the corporate world, and even more as a traditional ruler.
As he celebrates a milestone in his life, it is fitting to celebrate his remarkable journey, achievements, and the profound impact he has had on his community and beyond.
- Lekki People Magazine
It is widely said among the wise that the heavens will create a path for a man who knows where he is headed. So it can be said of the journey so far of one of Western Nigeria's wave-making royal fathers, who has taken upon himself the huge burden of charting a new history for his people, etching an indelible mark on the sand of time as he leads the transformation of Irete-Ijebu from an obscure, referential community to a bustling business destination beeping with investors' interests, all within four years of ascending the throne.
Early Life and Education
Born into the esteemed Awokoya family in Omu-Ijebu, HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu's early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education and personal development. His academic pursuits took him to renowned institutions, including the Federal School of Surveying in Oyo, where he earned a degree in Quantity Surveying. His thirst for knowledge and self-improvement led him to participate in various national and international training programs, including those at the Aston Business School, Hensley Business School, and The University of Manchester.
Professional Career
HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu's professional life is a testament to his passion for excellence and his ability to turn vision into reality. As a successful land merchant, he has built a reputation for integrity and expertise, becoming one of the
most courted and trusted business leaders of his time.
His company, Awokoya Endurance Nigeria Limited, has become a leading player in the estate management and consultancy sector. His entrepreneurial spirit has also led him to establish other successful ventures, including Al-Gasali Global Ventures Nigeria Limited, Ikoyi-Adams Land Realtor Nigeria Limited, Innovator Water Factory, and Al-Gasali International School.
Community Impact
For a man who viewed his worldly wealth as a divine privilege purposed to inspire positive changes in the lives of others, HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu's impact extends far beyond his business accomplishments. His huge commitment to philanthropy and community development has been the hallmark of his entire life, earning him widespread recognition and admiration, even long before he was chosen to become a royal father.
As one of the wealthiest monarchs in western Nigeria, he has spent billions of naira of his personal wealth on various infrastructural projects aimed at uplifting various communities in Lagos and Ogun State.
Through his ABDUL GANIYU OLUSEGUN AWOKOYA ISLAMIC FOUNDATION, he has touched millions of lives and has supported various charitable causes, empowering individuals and organizations in his community and beyond.
Widely known as a man of peace who cherishes the harmonious cohabitation of all people, HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu's dedication to conflict resolution and mediation at the grassroots has been profitable in averting bloody confrontations among individuals and communities. Amongst many similar roles, as a leading land surveyor in Lagos, Nigeria, he was instrumental in the successful resolution of several high-profile disputes in Lagos and Ogun State, including the Epe Lagoon Resettlement Conflict and the Lekki Coastal Land Dispute.
Recognitions and Honors
Like a goldfish which has no hiding place, his contributions to the larger society have not gone unnoticed, as torrents of recognitions and awards have continued to trail his every move.
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Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun presents an Award to HRh Olusegun Awokoya. |
For many years, before he was crowned a king, his wisdom, humility, and large heart had endeared him to the hearts of
many individuals and communities, many of whom had been direct or indirect beneficiaries of his good deeds, leading to many important traditional titles which were conferred to honor him, such as: The Okanlomo Adeen of Ijebu-land, Agba-Akin Adeen of Epe Land, and Aare Adeen of Ibeju-Lekki Land.
Also, as the Grand Patron of ỌbáSikiru Adetona College of Education and Technical studies, HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu has continued to extend a benevolent hand towards uplifting the future of thousands of young people who form the bedrock of the future.
As his deeds and fame travel far and wide at the speed of light, men and global institutions also continue to court his acquaintance with the highest honors. Among his most recent international recognitions, on the 5th of August 2023, in far-away Germany, the African-German Information Center, AGIC, based in Frankfurt-Germany, honored HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu with the prestigious African Living Legend Award, as the Global Icon of Ijebu/Yoruba Heritage & Culture, in recognition of his contributions to cultural growth and grassroots development in Africa (Lagos and Ogun State). Also, in the month of October 2024, the Diaspora Innovation Institute, Portugal, in collaboration with the University of Portugal's African Cultural Centre, bestowed on HRH. Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu the much-revered DIASPORA CHAMPIONS AWARD 2024, where other winners in Nigeria include the Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji. In the same vein, in November 2024, the American University of Peace and Governance conferred on him an Honorary Doctorate degree of the institution, underscoring HRH Olusegun Awokoya's strong passion to foster peace and prosperity.
For many regular visitors to Irete-Ijebu, there's been sporadic growth of the town in the last 3 years, attestable to fact by the increased economic and social activities in the town. In this light, His Royal Highness has also been recognized by the Ogun State Ministry of Community Development and Cooperative and Ogun State Community Development Council, which awarded him an Excellence Award for grassroots community development in 2024.
As Kabiyesi marks this
significant milestone in his life, it is clear that his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His commitment to excellence, philanthropy, and community development serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
In summation, his trajectory is visibly embedded in his famous words, "I believe that true success is measured by the positive impact we have on the lives of others. I am dedicated to making a difference in my community and inspiring others to do the same."
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