Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, others celebrate industrialist Jolayemi at 85
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and several dignitaries joined in celebrating renowned industrialist, Chief Oyin Jolayemi, as he marked his 85th birthday in Lagos at the weekend.
The day began with a thanksgiving service at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, attended by top government officials, captains of industry, religious leaders, and family members.
In his sermon, Bishop of Lagos Diocese (Anglican Communion), Rt. Revd. Ifedola Okupevi, commended Chief Jolayemi for his impactful life.
Reading from Psalms 90:14 and speaking on the theme, ‘Unmerited Grace,’ Okupevi described Jolayemi as a man blessed with divine grace and a legacy of hard work.
The celebration continued with a grand reception at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, where tributes poured in from across the country.
President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, described Jolayemi as a national asset whose contributions to industrial growth and youth employment have helped shape Nigeria’s economic landscape.
“Mr. President asked me to thank you for a life well lived, for your service to the nation, for creating opportunities for our youth, and for remaining a beacon of excellence in industry,” Dr. Salako said.
Kwara State Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, also gave glowing remarks, while tributes from the Lagos and Ogun State Governors praised the celebrant’s integrity, humility, and service to humanity.
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that Chief Jolayemi had become synonymous with enterprise and generosity. “At 85, you remain a source of wisdom and inspiration to all who know your story,” he said.
Governor Abiodun, in his message, highlighted the celebrant’s entrepreneurial impact and his contributions to nation-building, describing him as a role model who embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion.
Oluwatosin Jolayemi, the celebrant’s first son, listed some outstanding qualities he has learned from his father, including integrity, being God-fearing, and purposefulness.
His second son, Oluwasegun Jolayemi, praised his father’s virtues of exemplary life and hard work, noting that the industrialist has set high standards that have shaped the good life he is leading today. He prayed that Chief Jolayemi would continue to enjoy good health.
His daughter, Bunmi, also praised her father for teaching her the ways of the Lord and, most importantly, discipline, noting that her children have also imbibed the same virtues.
Other dignitaries present at the event included former Supreme Court Justice and former High Commissioner to the UK, Justice George Oguntade; Senator Florence Ita Giwa; Prince Samuel Adedoyin, Chairman of the Doyin Group of Companies; and top executives from various sectors.
In a tribute, Odu’a Investment Company Limited praised Chief Jolayemi for building the Daily Need Industries into a resilient business and for mentoring generations of professionals.
