Personality in Focus
Otedola Donates N1bn to LSSTF
In a landmark move for public safety in Lagos, Nigerian business tycoon Femi Otedola, represented by his daughter Tolani Otedola, has contributed a hefty sum of N1 billion to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).
This act of generosity was acknowledged in a formal ceremony where the Governor of Lagos State was present to receive the donation, further cementing the synergy between the state’s public sector and private philanthropy.
The LSSTF, which has been a cornerstone in the provision of critical support to law enforcement agencies for nearly two decades, has benefited from Mr. Otedola’s consistent support, earning him the distinction of being the top individual contributor to the Fund.
Tolani Otedola, in her role at the event, underscored the LSSTF’s enduring contribution to the state’s security framework, and the Otedola family’s commitment to fostering a safe environment for all Lagosians.
Acknowledging the seamless and safe celebrations during the recent festive season, Tolani Otedola highlighted the LSSTF’s role in ensuring peace and security, a feat that was possible due to the diligent efforts of the security services, underpinned by the support from the Fund.
The donation comes with a clarion call to action for others in the community, as Mr. Otedola, through his daughter, urged Lagosians, especially those within the corporate and affluent sectors, to reflect on the value of contributing to the Fund.
He posited that such collective action is pivotal for the sustenance of security and prosperity in Lagos.
The presence of the Governor at this event, to personally receive the pledge, signifies the importance the state places on partnerships that enhance public welfare.
In her closing remarks, Tolani Otedola lauded the Governor and the LSSTF for their unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos safe and encouraged the Fund to continue its legacy of transparency and prudent management of resources.
This substantial endowment by the Otedola family not only addresses immediate security needs but also exemplifies the spirit of giving back to the community.
It reflects a growing trend of collaboration between the government and private citizens in tackling societal challenges.
As Lagos continues to grow as a major economic hub in Africa, such contributions are vital in ensuring that the city remains a safe and attractive destination for business and tourism.
The Otedola family’s donation not only provides immediate resources for security enhancements but also serves as a model for philanthropy in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has announced the birth of twin princes with his wife Mariam Ajibola, to the Royal House of Oduduwa.
The monarch disclosed this in a post shared on his official Facebook page on Friday, expressing gratitude to God for the safe delivery of the children and the wellbeing of their mother.
“To God be all the glory and adoration for His wondrous works and abundant blessings once again.
The announcement has drawn congratulatory messages from admirers and members of the Yoruba royal institution celebrating the arrival of the newborn princes.
After his marriage to Naomi Silekunola ended, the Ooni married several queens within a short period in 2022.
Among the queens are Mariam Anako, Elizabeth Akinmuda, Tobiloba Phillips, Ashley Adegoke, Ronke Ademiluyi and Temitope Adesegun.
During celebrations marking his 48th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary, the monarch explained that his marriages were connected to the traditional heritage and responsibilities attached to the throne of Ile-Ife.
Nigerian entrepreneur, Femi Otedola, has reportedly acquired a mansion in London valued at £53 million, further strengthening the presence of wealthy Nigerian investors in the United Kingdom’s luxury property market.
According to a report by Bloomberg on Thursday, the property is located in St John’s Wood, one of London’s most exclusive residential districts situated close to Regent’s Park.
The report stated that the transaction was concluded late last year, citing a UK filing.
The mansion reportedly features 10 bedrooms alongside luxury facilities including a cinema, spa and cigar room. The property was previously placed on the market for £75 million in 2020, according to media reports.
Otedola is the chairman and majority shareholder of First HoldCo Plc, with business interests spanning finance, energy, shipping and insurance brokerage.
The acquisition comes amid sustained activity in London’s luxury real estate sector despite increased property taxes and adjustments to tax policies affecting foreign residents.
Prime areas such as St John’s Wood, Belgravia and Chelsea continue to attract ultra-wealthy buyers from across the world, with multimillion-pound transactions remaining common in the high-end housing market.
The latest purchase also adds to Otedola’s collection of luxury assets and reflects the continued attraction of London’s upscale neighbourhoods to affluent Nigerian businessmen and corporate executives.
In recent years, several Nigerian business figures have been associated with expensive property acquisitions in the UK capital.
In 2025, Roosevelt Ogbonna, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, was also reported to have acquired a £15 million property in Hampstead, another affluent area in London popular among wealthy foreign investors.
St John’s Wood, where Otedola’s mansion is located, is widely known for its luxury detached homes, privacy and proximity to landmarks such as Regent’s Park and the Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Bloomberg
Personality in Focus
Aare EmmanuelKing Congratulates Olofin of Ilisan Remo, Oba Sonuga, on 86th Birthday
The Borokinni of Ilishan Remo, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing KOF, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Olofin of Ilisan Remo, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Barr. Michael Olufemi Mojeed Sonuga Daniyan II, as the revered monarch celebrates his 86th birthday anniversary.
In a statement released to commemorate the royal father’s birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing described the monarch as a symbol of peace, wisdom, progress, and exemplary royal leadership, whose reign has continued to bring honor and development to Ilisan Remo.
According to him, since ascending the revered throne of his forefathers, the Olofin has consistently demonstrated purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to the unity, growth, and cultural advancement of the kingdom, while fostering peace and harmony among the people.
He further noted that the monarch’s reign has inspired pride and confidence among indigenes of Ilisan Remo both at home and in the diaspora, adding that Kabiyesi’s dedication to community development and preservation of tradition remains highly commendable.
The Borokinni prayed for continued divine grace, sound health, long life, and greater wisdom for the royal father as he continues his impactful reign on the throne of his ancestors.
“On behalf of my family, associates, and well-wishers, I heartily congratulate His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Barr. Michael Olufemi Mojeed Sonuga Daniyan II, the Olofin of Ilisan Remo, on the joyous occasion of his 86th birthday. May Almighty God continue to strengthen Kabiyesi with peace, sound health, and many more years of fruitful reign,” he stated.
