A Life of Purpose, Grace: Celebrating Olatunji Olusoji

Prosper Taiwo

There are people whose lives quietly ripple through the world, and then there are those whose presence becomes a source of light for everyone around them. Engr. Olatunji Olusoji, the Asiwaju I of Ayere Kingdom in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, belongs to the latter. His story is one of faith, courage, and an uncommon devotion to humanity. For those of us who have had the privilege to know him closely, his life remains a daily reminder that true greatness lies in service and humility.

When Olusoji marked his birthday on the 13th of October, it was not just another date on the calendar. It was a celebration of purpose, of a man whose journey has been guided by grace and shaped by the desire to make life better for others.

Fondly called “The Unifier” by his people, he has worked tirelessly to bring peace and understanding to the different communities of Kogi State. His leadership is not the loud, attention-seeking kind. It is quiet, steady, and deeply rooted in his belief that progress is possible when people choose unity over division.

Through his foundation, the Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation, known as PROOF, he has built a legacy of compassion that continues to touch lives across the state and beyond. For him, philanthropy is not a pastime or a performance; it is a calling. I have watched him approach every act of giving with sincerity, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most. His work cuts across education, healthcare, security, and community development, often carried out without fanfare or publicity.

Every year, his foundation provides 1,000 free JAMB forms to young people who would otherwise have been unable to afford them. He has established free CBT centres across Kogi West, awarded scholarships worth over 50 million naira to students in tertiary institutions, and donated 100 million naira to Vine University in the United States to promote global education exchange. Thousands of schoolchildren have benefited from his annual distribution of books and school bags, a gesture that has become a

His heart for people goes beyond the classroom. Through a N15 million agricultural fund, he has supported farmers and small business owners. He has built six rural markets to encourage local trade, provided free medical care for pregnant women, funded eye surgeries for the vulnerable, and offered rehabilitation for mentally ill persons abandoned by society. His foundation also extends its kindness through annual Ramadan and Easter outreach programmes that bring relief to communities across Nigeria. Even in matters of security, he has contributed significantly by donating patrol vehicles to local governments and supporting the rebuilding of police stations and community infrastructure.

What stands out about Olusoji is that his generosity is matched by a deep commitment to hard work and innovation. In 2016, he founded Grosvenor Global Services Limited, a company that has become a respected name in Nigeria’s oil and gas, marine logistics, aviation, mining, and infrastructure sectors. Through this enterprise, he has continued to empower people and create opportunities that transform lives. He also serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tratun Energy Limited and Executive Director at Regions Oil and Gas, where he remains a strong advocate of ethical leadership and sustainable business practices.

A man of intellect and curiosity, Olusoji is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Benin. He has pursued further studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science, the Asian Development Bank Institute, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He is currently completing a Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Management at the University of East London, proving that personal growth is a lifelong journey.

His contributions have earned him more than 145 awards from government agencies, civil society groups, and private institutions. He holds several distinguished titles, including Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom, Turaki Gamji of Arewa Kingdom, and Basorun Akinjagunla of Ogidi Kingdom. He has also been conferred with an honorary doctorate from Vine University in America. Among his many recognitions are the Peace Legends Award for Humanitarian Leadership and the Golden Torch of Humanity Award, both celebrating his commitment to the wellbeing of others.

Yet beyond the accolades, the Prince I know is a deeply spiritual man who carries his faith with quiet strength. He is a devoted Christian, a committed family man, and a loving husband and father to two children. In his home, as in his public life, he leads with kindness and humility.

As I reflect on his journey, I am reminded that some lives are not just lived; they are shared generously with others. Olusoji represents the best of our values — faith, compassion, discipline, and a genuine desire to build a better Nigeria. His life is proof that leadership rooted in love can heal divisions and inspire generations.

As we continue to celebrate him beyond his birthday, we celebrate more than one man’s achievements. We celebrate a vision, a spirit of service, and a heart that beats for humanity. May his light continue to guide us toward a future built on faith, equity, and shared hope.