Ajibola Afonja, former Minister of Labour and Chairman of First Bank Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 82. According to a family source, the Oyo-born Prince breathed his last on Sunday night at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Afonja held prominent positions throughout his career, serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors of First Bank Plc and Minister of Labour during the interim government of Earnest Shonekan. He was also Chairman of Integrated Dimensional System and held leadership roles in several other companies.
Educated at Kingston University in the United Kingdom, Afonja graduated with a degree in Accounting in 1970. He then began his career with John Mowlem & Co, a renowned UK-based construction firm responsible for numerous iconic projects including Buckingham Palace, the House of Commons, and London Bridge.
Returning to Nigeria in 1974, Afonja continued to make significant contributions to both the business and socio-political spheres. His passing has been mourned by the Oyo Global Forum, a prominent socio-political group in Oyo, which highlighted his pivotal role as an industrialist and his legacy of generosity and leadership.
Despite his national influence, Afonja remained deeply connected to his roots in Oyo, where he spearheaded pioneering efforts in industry. His dedication to transformative business visions, such as the E-Customs project, exemplified his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s economy.
The Oyo Global Forum expressed profound sadness at the loss of Afonja, acknowledging the significant impact he had on countless lives. They extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the Oyo community, and associates worldwide, emphasizing their commitment to honoring his memory by upholding the values he embodied.
