Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Olatunde Ayinla Abudu, describing him as a rare gem whose death marks the end of a transformative chapter in the history of Egbaland and Nigeria.
Chief Abudu, a distinguished legal practitioner, industrialist, philanthropist, and educationist, was buried on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the premises of Nobel House College, Abeokuta — the very institution he founded to advance the cause of quality education.
In a heartfelt message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the governor expressed profound sorrow at the passing of the elder statesman, stating that Chief Abudu was not only a modernizing force in Egbaland but also one of its most accomplished sons.
“Chief Olatunde Ayinla Abudu was a visionary patriot whose legacy cannot be erased. His passing at the age of 96 signifies the close of a glorious era,” Governor Abiodun said. “He was instrumental in the industrial growth of Abeokuta and was a major reason Ogun State stands today as Nigeria’s industrial capital.”
Governor Abiodun emphasized Chief Abudu’s pioneering role in industry, notably through his promotion of Metoxide Limited—an aluminium, plastics, and hardware manufacturing company—which laid the groundwork for the industrial expansion of the Egba region. His legacy, the governor added, encouraged other Egba elites to invest in sectors such as agro-allied ventures, fruit canning, timber processing, and brewing.
“He didn’t just invest in business. He planted the seeds for others to follow. His initiatives led to a chain of investments that boosted our economy and created jobs for many,” the governor said.
Beyond the industrial space, the late Chief Abudu also left a resounding imprint on education. He established Nobel House College, a forward-thinking school driven by ICT, and initiated the Chief Olatunde Abudu Primary Schools Essay Competition (COAPSEC), designed to instill creativity and critical reasoning in young minds.
The governor also recalled Chief Abudu’s magnanimity to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where he singlehandedly funded the construction of an ultra-modern edifice housing the institution’s Microfinance Bank and the Directorate of Physical Planning.
“His contributions to FUNAAB were immense. He believed in giving back to institutions that build society. That’s leadership through legacy,” Abiodun added.
As a devout Muslim and man of peace, Chief Abudu was known for building and supporting mosques, sponsoring Islamic centres, and encouraging Quranic competitions, all while promoting peaceful coexistence between religious communities.
“He stood for interfaith unity and compassion. His generosity was not restricted to one faith or people. His hands were open to all,” the governor noted.
Describing Chief Abudu as “the Mayegun of Egbaland and a pillar of development,” Governor Abiodun lauded his roles in community advancement, national service, and continental engagement.
“He was more than a legal luminary or businessman. He was a national treasure, a teacher, and a mentor to many. He believed personal success meant nothing if others around him were not uplifted,” he said.
“Chief Abudu lived a joyful life, full of meaning and impact. He was deeply respected and dearly loved. His memory will live on, not just in Abeokuta but across Nigeria and beyond,” the governor concluded.
