Ajibola Afonja, Former Minister of Labour and Chairman of First Bank Nigeria, Passes Away at 82
Ajibola Afonja, a respected figure in Oyo and Nigeria’s business circles, breathed his last on Sunday night at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State, as confirmed by a family source.
Originally from Oyo, Prince Afonja held pivotal roles as Chairman of the Board of Directors of First Bank Plc and served as Minister of Labour during the interim government of Earnest Shonekan. Additionally, he chaired Integrated Dimensional System and various other companies.
Afonja pursued his academic journey at Kingston University in Surrey, United Kingdom, where he obtained a degree in Accounting in 1970. Following his graduation, he embarked on a distinguished career with John Mowlem & Co, a renowned UK-based construction firm, contributing to numerous landmark projects across the United Kingdom.
Returning to Nigeria in 1974, Afonja continued to play a significant role in shaping Oyo’s industrial and socio-political landscape. Revered for his generosity and leadership qualities, he left an indelible mark on numerous lives.
In remembrance of his legacy, the Oyo Global Forum, under the leadership of its chairman Taiwo Adebayo, celebrated Afonja’s unwavering commitment to community development and his visionary contributions to Nigeria’s economy. The group extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the Oyo community, and associates worldwide, honoring his memory and dedication to service.
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