There are several famous personalities in the dynamic realm of Yoruba politics and business who have exerted their power as both politicians and successful entrepreneurs. These Yoruba politicians have not only left an indelible impact on the political landscape, but have also developed vast corporate empires that have altered industries and contributed to their country’s economic progress.
It’s quite remarkable how they’ve navigated and succeeded in these two intertwined domains. Let us look into the lives and accomplishments of these amazing Yoruba politicians who own large enterprises.
1. Olusegun Obasanjo
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo, a notable Yoruba politician, has made an indelible mark on Nigerian politics and industry. Obasanjo displayed remarkable leadership qualities and a thorough understanding of administration during his two tenure as President of Nigeria.
His influence, though, extends beyond politics. Obasanjo’s political career has spanned several decades, and he has demonstrated a capacity to adapt and thrive in shifting political climates. After leaving office, Obasanjo chose to focus his efforts on agriculture, a vital industry in Nigeria. He founded Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, which focuses on agricultural production and growth. He advocated sustainable farming practices, introduced new technologies, and created rural employment opportunities through his farm.
2. Seyi Makinde
When comparing Yoruba politicians with booming enterprises, one name stands out: Seyi Abiodun Makinde, an engineer and subject matter expert on fluid and gas metering. Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State in Nigeria, has made a name for himself as a successful businessman through his ownership of Makon Group Limited, a certified international organization with interests in Oil and Gas Facilities, Upstream/Midstream Operations, Refined Petroleum and Specialty Products Supply, Power Generation and Distribution services.
After years of work experience with international oil and gas companies, he founded his first company, Makon Engineering and Technical Services Limited (METS), in 1997. He entered politics in 2007 when he ran for the Oyo South Senatorial seat on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). Makinde is a member of several national and international professional organizations, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Council for Regulations of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and the Oil and Gas Design Engineers of Nigeria (OGDEN).
3. Adebayo Adelabu
Adebayo Adelabu’s entrepreneurial adventure began in banking, where he achieved amazing success. He was the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, among other posts at notable Nigerian institutions.
Adelabu stepped into politics in addition to his achievements in banking. Adelabu resigned from Central Bank Nigeria with the goal of running for governor of Oyo State in 2019.
Adelabu is a renowned investor who has broad interests in the hospitality, entertainment, agriculture, and real estate sectors. He is the Group Chairman of the Bayse One Group of Hotels, where he oversees the operations of famous facilities such as the Best Western Plus Hotels in Ibadan. He is also actively involved in Bayse One Farm, exhibiting his dedication to the agricultural economy.
4. Akin Alabi
Oloye Akin Alabi, a well-known Yoruba politician and businessman, has made significant achievements in both the political and business worlds. Akin Alabi began his career as a successful entrepreneur before entering politics. He founded NairaBET, one of Nigeria’s top sports betting firms.
Akin Alabi began his commercial career in 2003 by authoring and selling books, manuals, and other information items, and he has since built numerous more enterprises from the ground up. Akin Alabi, in addition to his economic achievements, entered politics and was elected as a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He is also the creator of the Akin Alabi Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of ordinary people.
5. Shina Peller
Shina Abiola Peller acquired a history of entertainment and showmanship from his father, the famed Nigerian magician Professor Peller. He poured his entrepreneurial passion towards the entertainment industry, establishing the famed Quilox nightclub. Quilox rapidly became a well-known hotspot, attracting celebrities and other high-profile people.
Shina Peller has dabbled in politics in addition to his economic achievements. He ran for and was elected to the House of Representatives in Oyo State, Nigeria, representing the Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency. He is now running for the Nigerian Senate as a member of the Accord Party.
