The remembrance and honour of the late Mufutau Ajadi Lanihun by the Oyo State Government at the grand finale of the Oyo @ 50 Celebration today, Tuesday, 3 February, 2026, is an affirmation of the State’s commitment to recognising and celebrating true heroes of our time. Laninhun, affectionately called “Olowo ti nfowo s’anu” for his boundless generosity, made an indelible mark on Ibadanland and beyond.
His contributions to education, commerce and the Muslim community are a shining example of selflessness and dedication to humanity. The construction of schools, scholarships for indigent students and support for the less privileged are just a few examples of his remarkable philanthropy.
The late Chief Mufutau Ajadi Laninhun was born on August 25, 1946, into the family of the late Alhaji Raheem Laninhun and Alhaja Falilat Amoke Laninhun. He hailed from Oriolowo Compound, Orita Merin, Mapo, Ibadan. His mother was a gold merchant while his father traded in salt.
He began his educational journey at Ayeye Nursery and Primary School in Ayeye, Ibadan, and later attended Ayedaade Grammar School in Ikir for his secondary education.
Chief Laninhun’s entrepreneurial journey began with petty trading, importing clothes and shoes from Cotonou, and later from Spain. This venture paved the way for his manufacturing business, as he started producing nails and candles in 1987. He then expanded to importing used tyres from Japan, earning the distinction of being Nigeria’s first importer of secondhand engines from Japan.
Laninhun was also an exporter of rubber, cotton, and cocoa. He was a shining hope, illuminating many paths with his exceptional social entrepreneurship skills and vision.
Throughout his life, he seamlessly merged business savvy with a strong sense of social duty, leaving an enduring legacy that touches countless lives and institutions. His story continues to motivate community leaders, educators and philanthropists across Oyo State and beyond.
He earned the nickname “Olowo ti nfowo s’anu” (the rich man who uses his money for benevolence and mercy), evidence of his remarkable generosity and philanthropic endeavours. He built Mufutau Laninhun Primary and Secondary School, Ibadan, and donated it to the Oyo State Government, ensuring free education for underprivileged children. He also provided these pupils and students with free books and school uniforms. He also founded Mufutau Laninhun College of Education, Ibadan, and equipped it with the necessary resources to ensure its smooth operation. The late Laninhun also awarded thousands of scholarships to needy students and offered financial assistance to those in need. He constructed mosques and backed Islamic initiatives, earning respect from Muslim leaders.
He was also a sports enthusiast, founding Laninhun Babes and annually sponsoring the Laninhun Under 20 football competition in Oyo State.
Internationally recognised, he received awards and honours, including honorary doctorates in business from Spain and France.
He held various traditional and religious titles, earning him a revered position as a community leader among Muslims in Oyo State. Until his passing, he proudly bore the esteemed title of Giwa Adini of Yorubaland. Chief Mufutau Ajadi Laninhun had 3 wives and 30 children. He passed away on March 29, 2015, at 69, following a brief illness.
As the University of Ibadan’s Prof. Ayo Hammed, Chairman of Mufutau Lanihun College of Education’s Governing Council, leads a dynamic team, the 10th-year remembrance of Chief Mufutau Ajadi Lanihun’s passing becomes a catalyst for transformative change.
With Dr Lanre Oladejo of the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan, on the team, and yours truly as Strategic Consultant, we are working to propel Mufutau Lanihun College of Education, Ibadan, into the forefront of Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
Our mission? To harness the power of Lanihun’s enduring legacy, raise crucial funds, and transform the College to meet the country’s evolving needs. Finally, as Oyo State marks 50 glorious years, we pay tribute to Chief Mufutau Ajadi Lanihun’s remarkable legacy. His life exemplifies selflessness, serving as a reminder that our impact on others truly measures our greatness.
A trailblazer and visionary, his contributions to Oyo State will forever be woven into our narrative.
May his example galvanise future generations to follow in his footsteps of service, generosity and community upliftment.
May Allah pardon his shortcomings, illuminate his grave and grant him Aljannah Firdaous. Aamin.
Tunji Oladejo, mnipr, JP, writes from the University of Ibadan and is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI), via oladejo65@gmail.com.
08077284442.
