Nigeria’s business community has been thrown into mourning following the death of renowned corporate leader and elder statesman, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, who passed away at the age of 93.
Ojora, the Otunba of Lagos and the Lisa of Ile-Ife, reportedly died on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, after a brief illness at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, Paparazzi Online has gathered.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential boardroom strategists, Ojora’s distinguished career spanned journalism, business and public service, leaving an enduring imprint on several critical sectors of the Nigerian economy, notably oil and gas, shipping, finance and real estate.
A source close to the family confirmed the development, describing him as “a bridge between Nigeria’s early corporate pioneers and the modern business class,” adding that “his wisdom, discipline and commitment to excellence shaped generations of business leaders.”
Born into prominence, Ojora initially pursued a career in journalism. After studying journalism at Regent Street Polytechnic in London, he worked at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), where he rose to the position of assistant editor. On his return to Nigeria in 1955, he joined the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) as a reporter and was later posted to Ibadan as an information officer in the office of the regional premier.
His transition into the corporate world began in earnest in 1961 when he joined the United African Company (UAC) as public relations manager, a move that proved pivotal. By 1962, he had risen to become an executive director of the multinational firm, signalling the start of a remarkable business journey.
Ojora also played active roles in public administration and governance. In 1966, he was nominated to the Lagos City Council, gaining valuable grassroots governance experience. A year later, he was appointed managing director of Wemabod Estates Limited and chairman of the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), positions that further cemented his reputation as a capable administrator.
Over the decades, he built a formidable investment portfolio. He served as chairman of AGIP Nigeria Limited from 1971 until its acquisition by Unipetrol in 2002, and invested in companies such as NCR Nigeria. He also founded Nigerlink Industries, Unital Builders and the holding firm Lagos Investments.
The enactment of the Nigerian Enterprises Promotion Act accelerated his expansion into indigenous ownership, enabling him to acquire equity stakes in several foreign companies operating in Nigeria, including Bowring Group, Inchcape, Schlumberger, Phoenix Assurance, UTC Nigeria, Evans Brothers and Seven-Up.
His business interests eventually cut across oil and gas, shipping, food and beverages, insurance, pharmaceuticals, office equipment, ICT, real estate and financial services, both within Nigeria and internationally.
Beyond his personal achievements, Ojora’s influence extended through his family, whose members continue to play prominent roles in governance, healthcare and social advocacy, reinforcing his legacy across generations.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
