Since its establishment in 1975, the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has carved a niche for itself as a premier institution in Nigeria. The IIorin-based institution has lived up to its motto “Probit as Doctrine” (Probity and Scholarship), providing a world-class environment for learning, research and community service, while pursuing its vision to become an international center of excellence in learning, research, probity and service to humanity.

As a matter of fact, the excellence and greatness of UNILORIN graduates reflect the vigorous mission that came with its creation fifty years ago. Thus, without mincing words, the University of Ilorin has justified the essence of her existence having built a legacy of academic excellence as evident in her production of top-range professionals and academia that have had tremendous impact on development in Nigeria and even beyond.

In the light of the foregoing and to celebrate its Golden Jubilee, The Guardian intends to showcase a number of distinguished ambassadors of the Ilorin based university, featuring Dr Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Railway Corporation ( NRC), Oludotun Oseni, Managing Director/CEO, MeritAbode Nigeria Limited, Akinwale Abidakun Tomtom, Managing Director/CEO, Bluemart Realty Group and Oyathelemi Osikhena Richard, Managing Director/CEO, Rio-Weighing Systems.

“Better by far” – the University of Ilorin’s guiding mantra – finds a compelling embodiment in Dr. Kayode Opeifa, a transformative leader who has propelled Nigeria’s transportation sector into a new era of growth and possibility. As a leader who has driven Nigeria’s transportation revolution, his remarkable journey is a story of vision, determination and a relentless pursuit of progress.

With a strong foundation in the sciences, he has leveraged his expertise to catalyze economic growth and impact millions of lives. As a man of many accomplishments, Dr. Opeifa’s academic credentials are a testament to his dedication to lifelong learning.

From his early days as a Biochemistry undergraduate at UNILORIN to his postgraduate studies and later, his Doctorate in Transport and Logistics, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, equipping himself with a unique blend of scientific, business and logistical expertise that has enabled him to excel as a leader and advocate in his field.

As one of the University’s outstanding alumni, his achievements reflect the institution’s commitment to producing leaders who drive positive change. A 1986 graduate of the UNILORIN, Dr Opeifa’s distinguished career is a masterclass in dedication and expertise.
With a keen focus on sustainable mobility and transportation, he leverages his technocratic acumen to drive meaningful progress.

His academic roots have nurtured a passion for teaching and mentoring, while his activism underscores a profound commitment to promoting justice and equality. A seasoned leader, he excels at forging consensus and catalyzing transformative change, navigating intricate ecosystems with ease as a skilled communicator, strategist and organizational expert.

His emergence as a prominent human rights advocate was forged in the crucible of adversity. His undergraduate experience at UNILORIN ignited a passion for human rights that would define his life’s work. As a vocal critic of Nigeria’s military dictatorship, he faced relentless threats, particularly through his involvement with the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights and the Campaign for Democracy.

The danger eventually compelled him to seek refuge in the United States. Yet, exile only strengthened his resolve, and he continued to pursue his dual passions for academia and activism with unwavering dedication.

Dr. Opeifa’s academic leadership was evident during his tenure as a lecturer at Lagos State University from 1990 to 1997. As a member of the University Senate and various Senate committees, he played a pivotal role in shaping academic policies, harnessing his expertise to fuel growth and innovation.

His subsequent career in the United States saw him excel in multiple esteemed organizations, including Motorola Inc, Northeastern Illinois University, and Abbott Laboratories. With roles ranging from Technology Care Specialist to Research Scientist, he drove cutting-edge innovation in pharmaceutical research and development, showcasing his versatility and expertise.

Upon his return to Nigeria in 2006, Dr. Opeifa brought his expertise to the public sector, serving first as Special Adviser on Transportation to the Lagos State Governor from 2007 to 2011, and later as Honorable Commissioner for Transportation from 2011 to 2015.

During his tenure, Lagos State’s transportation sector underwent a profound metamorphosis, marked by significant infrastructure development, enhanced road safety measures, innovative traffic management solutions, and the introduction of public transportation franchising.

The ripple effects of these reforms were felt beyond Lagos, influencing transportation systems in states such as Edo, Ekiti, and Oyo. A notable highlight of his service was the successful delivery of logistics and protocol support for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Championship in Lagos, where he led the transport, logistics, and protocol committee with distinction.

His expertise in transportation continued to shape Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape as Secretary of Transportation for the Federal Capital Territory from 2017 to 2019. Notably, he oversaw the delivery of the country’s first sub-national rail system, a milestone achievement that underscored his technical prowess.

His appointment to the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s Board in 2019 further amplified his impact, informing key decisions on rail operations, modernization, and reform. A new challenge soon emerged in May 2019, when he was appointed Executive Vice Chairman of the Presidential Task Team on Restoration of Law and Order in Apapa.

Within a remarkably brief 90-day period, Dr. Opeifa’s team restored order to the port city, introducing a manual call-up system, rationalizing empty container handling, and implementing effective traffic management solutions.

Before taking on his next challenge, Dr. Opeifa had honed his expertise in the private sector, serving as Principal Consultant with InfoTran Advisory and Solutions Limited, where he leveraged global expertise to craft transportation solutions.

He had also worked as Technical Consultant with Technowell Global Consult Limited and Executive Director of the Centre for Sustainable Mobility and Access Development (CenSMAD), a pioneering NGO dedicated to promoting sustainable transportation in Nigeria

Focused on putting his expertise and experience to work as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Dr. Kayode Opeifa’s achievements typify the caliber of exceptional leaders that UNILORIN has produced.

Every University of Ilorin graduate aspires to excel and make a lasting impact in their careers, but only those with the unique ability to transform passion and vision into tangible realities have been able to etch their names in the annals of achievement. Akinwale Matthew Abidakun Tomtom, the visionary Chief Executive Officer of Bluemart Realty Group, stands as a shining testament to the institution’s legacy and he has been
proving himself worthy in both character and learning.

As one of the university’s esteemed ambassadors, his entrepreneurial success is a compelling narrative of dedication, resilience and innovation that has not only elevated his own profile but also brought honour to his alma mater.
With a commanding presence in Nigeria’s real estate sector, Akinwale Abidakun, popularly known as Wale Tomtom, has spent over a decade building an unparalleled reputation.

As the Founder and President of Bluemart Realty Group, he has navigated the complexities of distressed assets with finesse, turning non-performing properties into lucrative opportunities. His company’s Joint Venture model has been a game-changer, driving property development and delivering results-driven solutions that meet the market’s evolving needs. Today, Bluemart Realty stands at the forefront of Nigeria’s property market, shaping the future of real estate with innovative strategies and unwavering expertise.

A 2003 University of Ilorin graduate of Sociology and Anthropology, Abidakun’s professional journey took off as Executive Personal Assistant to Dr. Wale Babalakin, Group Chairman of Resort International and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services. This role marked the beginning of his corporate career, where he made significant contributions to various subsidiaries within the group. Working closely with Dr. Babalakin, he honed his entrepreneurial mindset, gaining invaluable experience that would shape his future ventures.

After completing his Master’s degree at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, in 2009, he founded Bluemart Realty Group in 2014 with a clear vision: to transform the real estate market through innovative strategies and expertise in distressed property sales. Within just five years, Abidakun achieved remarkable success, establishing Bluemart as a dynamic brand that has redefined the industry’s approach to high-stakes property transactions.

Under his leadership, the company has become a top-tier entity in the market, known for its results-driven approach and commitment to delivering value to clients. Reflecting on the knowledge he acquired at the University of Ilorin and its impact on his entrepreneural success, the dynamic real estate professional and President of Accomplishers Foundation shared his formula for achieving greatness in today’s competitive business world.

“For me, the winning combination is fortitude, passion, doggedness and willpower. These essential qualities have been ingrained in my mental orientation, enabling me to drive my ventures forward with purpose and determination. By harnessing these traits, I have been able to establish and grow successful businesses like Bluemart Realty Limited and Tomgate Alliance Limited, with a singular focus on delivering exceptional real estate solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”

Abidakun’s commitment to personal growth and development is evident in his participation in elite executive education programs. As an alumnus of Lagos Business School and Strathmore Business School in Kenya, he has honed his leadership skills and strategic thinking through programs like the Owner Managers Program. Beyond his business pursuits, he is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of young Nigerians.

Through his involvement with the Southwest Youth Advancement Group based in Abuja, he works closely with young individuals across the southwestern region, providing them with support and guidance to help them reach their full potential. This dual focus on business success and social responsibility underscores his multifaceted approach to leadership and community engagement.

His impressive achievements in the real estate sector have earned him widespread recognition. Recently, he was lauded at several high-profile award ceremonies, taking home top honours such as the Eko Outstanding Realtor of the Year 2024 at the Eko Heritage Awards, Real Estate CEO of the Year at the SCREAMS All Youths Awards 2024, Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 at the Men of Honour Awards, held at the Oriental Hotel, and he was a recipient of the Special Recognition Award from Aso Prestigious Awards in 2025.

These accolades underscore his innovative approach and dedication to his craft, solidifying his position amongst the major players in his field. As a member of the esteemed Ikoyi Club and a proud son of Akure, Ondo State, Akinwale Abidakun Tomtom’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic development have not gone unnoticed.

Many individuals who have benefited from his entrepreneurial ventures and community initiatives are now encouraging him to apply his experience in private business to a role in public office. With his proven track record of driving growth and development, it is not surprising that the excelling UNILORIN alumnus is being urged to bring his expertise to the public sector.

Among the University of Ilorin’s notable alumni, Oyathelemi Osikhena Richard stands out as a shining example of perseverance and achievement. As a proud graduate of the university’s Mechanical Engineering program, he has carved out a remarkable career path that is both inspiring and instructive.

With a humble beginning in Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos, his early life was marked by limited resources, but his spirit remained unbroken. Instead, it fuelled his passion for engineering solutions, driven by the realisation that even the most basic infrastructure could transform lives.

Oyathelemi’s journey to becoming the Managing Director of Rio-Weighing Systems was not without its challenges. However, his unwavering commitment to his goals has enabled him to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

What sets him apart is his unique blend of academic rigour and real-world experience. His time at the University of Ilorin laid the foundation for his future success and he has consistently built upon that foundation with each passing year.

One of the defining moments in his academic journey was his encounter with Professor Anor, a mentor who would shape his perspective on merit, hard work, and ethical standards. During his remedial programme days, he approached Professor Anor with concerns about unfair practices in the admission process.

Instead of dismissing him, Professor Anor offered words of wisdom that would become a guiding principle for his future: “If anyone asks you to pay for admission, know it’s a scam. Never accept favours you don’t merit—especially academically. That is the fastest way to ruin your future.”

Also, Dr. Badmus’s mentorship had a profound impact on Oyathelemi’s academic and professional journey. By fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, Dr. Badmus equipped his students to navigate real-world complexities. His gratitude towards his lecturer underscores the lasting influence of dedicated educators.

After gaining valuable experience in the field, he took the bold step of founding Rio-Weighing Systems, a company that would become a testament to his vision and leadership. The company’s mission goes beyond mere profitability; it aims to deliver quality, affordable solutions while creating opportunities for others from similar backgrounds. Today, he leads a team that shares his vision, and together, they strive for excellence, innovation and social impact.

Oyathelemi’s experiences as a student highlight the disconnect between theoretical concepts and practical applications. To bridge this gap, Nigerian universities must prioritize curriculum reform and industry partnerships.

A shift towards practical, innovation-driven learning would better prepare graduates for the job market and contribute to the country’s economic development. By adopting this approach, universities can produce adaptable, innovative and solution-focused graduates who are equipped to succeed in their chosen fields.

At the core of Rio-Weighing Systems’ success lies its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, precision-engineered weighing solutions that cater to the unique demands of local and regional industries. The company’s flagship innovations, including the Rico ROUGHNESS A-1, Rico ROUGHNESS X-1, and FINESSE Nano, are meticulously designed and built with substantial input from its in-house engineering team.

These hybrid products are not just imported machines but are battle-tested in the field and built from the ground up with industrial realities in mind. The ROUGHNESS line, in particular, stands out as a game-changer, combining rugged durability with surgical precision to deliver absolute accuracy in high-pressure production environments.

The company’s increasing growth can be attributed to Oyathelemi’s technical competence and effective managerial style. His technical expertise has enabled Rio-Weighing Systems to develop innovative weighing solutions that meet the unique demands of local and regional industries.

Meanwhile, his effective managerial style has fostered a culture of ownership and pride among employees, empowering them to grow and contribute to the company’s success. By valuing craftsmanship and recognizing its people as the engine behind everything it stands for, Rio-Weighing Systems has built a culture that is both sustainable and successful.

The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in every weighing solution it designs, which is built not just to perform but to endure, operating in environments where precision is non-negotiable. This approach has earned Rio-Weighing Systems a reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.

As he reflects on his journey, he offers a powerful message to current students and young alumni of the UNILORIN. He reminds them that their time at the university is not just about academic achievements, but also about developing character.

According to him, growth, innovation, and leadership lie beyond the comfort zone, and it’s the ability to navigate uncertainty and adversity that truly defines one’s potential. Oyathelemi encourages them to view challenges as opportunities for growth, and to let their university experience lay the foundation for a life of purpose, courage, and distinction.

Oyathelemi Richard’s distinction as one of UNILORIN’s esteemed alumni is a testament to his remarkable journey. His story illuminates the path for aspiring engineers, entrepreneurs and individuals who dare to defy the odds.

Oludotun Oseni’s rise to prominence in Nigeria’s real estate sector is a story of strategic thinking, bold decision-making and a commitment to excellence. Armed with an Economics degree from the University of Ilorin, he has leveraged his understanding of market dynamics and economic principles to drive success as the Chief Executive Officer of MeritAbode Nigeria Limited.

With a deep grasp of the industry’s complexities and a knack for identifying opportunities for growth, his leadership has earned him a reputation as a respected professional in his field.
Beyond his foundational Economics degree, Oseni has augmented his expertise with an Executive MBA (EMBA) from the esteemed Lagos Business School, where he developed sophisticated business acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Coupled with extensive hands-on experience in the real estate industry, his possession of a nuanced understanding of the sector’s intricacies has enabled him to drive his vision for innovative and customer-centric solutions. This blend of academic rigour and practical expertise has been instrumental in driving innovation and growth at MeritAbode Nigeria Limited.

As the Chief Executive Officer of MeritAbode Nigeria Limited, Oseni leads a dedicated team of over 200 seasoned professionals in Nigeria and the UK, overseeing more than 25 established estate and housing projects.

Over his 13-year tenure at the real estate company, it has successfully delivered real estate solutions to over 10,000 customers within Nigeria and beyond, with more than 10,000 plots sold and 200 housing projects underway. Notably, Meritabode’s initiatives have generated over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Nigerian property industry.

Driven by a fervent passion for addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit and providing affordable housing solutions, Oseni actively participates in various industry initiatives, catalyzing change and progress within the sector. His unwavering commitment to professionalism, astuteness and integrity underscores Meritabode’s mission to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and prosperity.

For him, the decision to study Economics at the University of Ilorin was informed by his desire to grasp the intricacies of the world and its complex systems. With a keen interest in understanding the underlying forces that shape global events, Oseni recognised that Economics would provide him with a powerful lens through which to analyse and interpret the world around him.

Moreover, he was drawn to the field’s potential to inform policy and decision-making, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to the development of his community and beyond. By studying Economics, he aimed to acquire a deep understanding of the mechanisms that drive economic growth, stability, and progress, and to equip himself with the skills and knowledge necessary to evaluate policies and make informed decisions that could positively impact the lives of others.

Oseni’s Economics degree has been instrumental in driving business strategy and informing investment decisions at MeritAbode Nigeria Limited. He plays a key role in ensuring that the company’s projects and initiatives yield tangible benefits for subscribers and clients, delivering value that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.

With his economic expertise, Oseni navigates the complexities of the real estate market, identifying opportunities and mitigating risks to drive growth and profitability for the company. His work has a direct impact on the lives of those who invest in the company’s projects and properties, providing them with safe, secure and fulfilling living spaces.

At Meritabode Nigeria Limited, the pursuit of excellence is more than just a goal – it is a way of life. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the needs of their customers, the company has consistently delivered projects that exceed expectations.

From the sprawling Emerald Wellness City to the cosy Sapphire Courts, each development is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. Whether it is a plot of land, a home or an entire community, Meritabode’s projects are designed to inspire, uplift and transform lives.

The integrity-driven real estate firm is redefining the concept of community living in Nigeria’s real estate industry. With Emerald Parks and Garden, Emerald Garden City and Emerald Ville, the company is creating vibrant neighbourhoods that seamlessly blend nature, architecture and innovation.

These projects are not just places to live – they are destinations that offer a unique quality of life, where residents can thrive, grow and flourish. Through its dedication to building the future, Meritabode is shaping the face of Nigeria’s urban landscape, one development at a time. With a focus on sustainability, convenience and quality living, the company is poised to continue making a lasting impact on the industry and the lives of its customers.

Oseni’s impact on Nigeria’s real estate sector has earned him widespread recognitions. Among these, he was named one of Nigeria’s top CEOs by The Guardian in 2022, a testament to his value-driven leadership and contributions to the country’s growth.

As an esteemed member of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria, the illustrious UNILORIN alumnus continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future.

At home, his greatest achievement is his family. He prioritizes his role as a devoted husband and father, navigating the demands of his high-profile career with the needs of his loved ones.

Oseni’s leadership extends far beyond his professional realm, as he fosters a culture of empathy, kindness, and support in his personal life. His influence is quietly profound, touching the lives of those around him and leaving a lasting impact on his community.