President Bola Tinubu and members of the Federal Executive Council have joined Nigerians in mourning the death of Prince Ajibola Afonja, a towering figure in the country’s business and public service spheres.
Afonja, the former Chairman of the First Bank of Nigeria Plc board, passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a statement released on Monday, Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late industrialist, describing him as “a business colossus” whose impact spanned the corporate world and national service.
“Prince Afonja was a statesman who served the nation in many capacities, applying his gift of knowledge and experience to the development of the country, while extending his means and essence to several philanthropic pursuits,” the President noted.
Afonja, an Oyo State native, wore many prominent hats during his illustrious career. Aside from leading First Bank’s board, he also served as Minister of Labour and Productivity under the Interim National Government in 1993.
President Tinubu extended sincere condolences to the Afonja family, the government and people of Oyo State, saying he joins them in mourning this “immense loss.”
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on behalf of the entire Federal Executive Council, also mourned Afonja’s passing, highlighting his invaluable contributions to Nigeria.
Throughout the halls of power and corporate boardrooms, Afonja earned widespread respect for his visionary leadership, entrepreneurial acumen, and commitment to uplifting his communities.
As tributes pour in from the public and private sectors, Afonja’s legacy as a titan of Nigerian industry and development remains firmly etched in the nation’s annals.
