Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency, Ambassador Dr. Yemi Farounbi, OON, has paid a glowing tribute to the late Otunba Kunle Ojora, describing him as an illustrious African citizen of Nigerian descent whose life was defined by leadership, integrity, service, and enduring contributions to national development.
In a heartfelt tribute issued on behalf of The Yemi Farounbi Colloquium, Farounbi said the passing of Otunba Ojora has left a deep vacuum, noting that the late Lagos traditional titleholder was a colossus whose name remains indelibly written in the history of Nigeria.
“Today, with heavy hearts and profound respect, I write to celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of a colossus, Otunba Kunle Ojora — a man whose name is etched deeply into the annals of Nigerian history, whose life was a shining beacon of leadership, integrity, and service,” Farounbi stated.
Otunba Kunle Ojora, who was born on June 13, 1932, hailed from the noble Ojora and Adele royal families of Lagos, a heritage which, according to Farounbi, prepared him for a lifetime of service to humanity, culture, and national progress.
He noted that as Otunba of Lagos, the late Ojora carried his responsibilities with humility and grace, serving as a bridge between the rich traditions of his ancestors and the evolving realities of modern Nigeria.
Farounbi further highlighted the late elder statesman’s intellectual brilliance and global exposure, recalling that he trained as a journalist at the Regent Polytechnic in London, and also worked as an assistant editor at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), an experience that shaped his communication skills and broadened his worldview.
Beyond journalism, Otunba Ojora was celebrated for his outstanding achievements in business and entrepreneurship. Farounbi revealed that the late Ojora chaired the board of AGIP Nigeria Limited for over three decades, providing strategic leadership that helped shape critical years in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
He also noted that the late businessman founded Nigerlink Industries and Unital Builders, enterprises that reflected his passion for economic growth and diversification. In addition, he served as Managing Director of Favourade Travels and Tours Limited, where he combined business acumen with his interest in knowledge and exploration.
However, Farounbi stressed that beyond boardrooms and corporate influence, Otunba Ojora was widely known for his compassion and generosity, describing philanthropy as a central pillar of his legacy.
According to him, the late Otunba founded Success Network International, a platform dedicated to youth empowerment through mentorship, education, and opportunities for young Nigerians. He also supported several community development initiatives spanning education, healthcare, and social welfare, impacting families across Lagos and Ogun states.
As a traditional leader, Farounbi said Otunba Ojora played a major role in preserving Yoruba heritage and promoting unity. He described his chieftaincy titles, including Otunba of Lagos and Chief Olori Omoba of Lagos, as honours that reflected a life devoted to cultural guardianship and service.
The tribute also acknowledged Otunba Ojora’s strong family values, noting that he is survived by his wife, Erelu Ojuolape, and his children, including Mrs. Toyin Saraki, wife of former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki.
Farounbi described the family as a living reflection of Otunba Ojora’s enduring influence, noting that the values of excellence, integrity, and public service he embodied continue to resonate through the lives of those he nurtured.
Reflecting on the late elder statesman’s legacy, Farounbi said Otunba Ojora represented the highest ideals of leadership and nation-building, adding that his life remains a source of inspiration for leaders, entrepreneurs, and citizens.
“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well lived — a life that has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history and future. His legacy will continue to inspire leaders, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike to strive for excellence, to serve with compassion, and to honour the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage,” he added.
Farounbi concluded by praying for the repose of Otunba Ojora’s soul, urging Nigerians to uphold the values the late icon represented.
“May Otunba Kunle Ojora rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit continue to guide and illuminate the path for all who follow in his footsteps,” the tribute read.
