Ibadan, Abuja Unite to Honour Pa Fatai Olalekan Adekola — Cleric, Entrepreneur and Patriarch Laid to Rest February 19

LAGOS — Family members, church leaders, dignitaries and well-wishers from across Nigeria are set to gather in Lagos on Thursday, February 19, 2026, to bid a final farewell to Pa Fatai Olalekan Adekola, a revered Christian elder, accomplished entrepreneur and devoted family patriarch whose life was marked by faith, integrity and service.

Pa Adekola, fondly known among his Yoruba contemporaries as “Baba Alanu”—meaning “Merciful Father”—passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. He was 81.

Born in 1944 at Oke Ola, Ibadan, into a Muslim family, Pa Adekola embraced Christianity at a young age, a decision that would shape the course of his life. Drawn early to spiritual devotion and church service, he grew to become a respected elder known for his compassion, humility and unwavering commitment to God and humanity.

Educated in Ibadan and Lagos, he trained as an Instrument Engineer at a teaching hospital, where he distinguished himself in the management of complex medical equipment and in the training of nurses. His professional discipline and technical expertise earned him admiration among colleagues and laid the foundation for a successful entrepreneurial journey.

In the private sector, Pa Adekola flourished as a contractor with Julius Berger during Nigeria’s construction boom years. His success in the supply of building materials and related ventures earned him the nickname “Young Millionaire” among associates who admired both his business acumen and work ethic. In 1979, he relocated to Abuja, where he would reside until his passing.

Yet beyond business success, those who knew him say his true wealth was measured in character. Pa Adekola was widely admired for his steadfast faith, his consistent support for pastors and church initiatives, and his deep commitment to family life. Friends describe him as a man of quiet strength whose actions often spoke louder than words—disciplined, generous and guided by a strong moral compass.

He is survived by his wife and ten children, including bishops, pastors and professionals in various fields. His descendants credit him with instilling in them a strong foundation of faith, education and service to society.

In a heartfelt tribute, his widow, Mrs. F. O. Adekola, described her late husband as “a man who loved deeply and lived with quiet strength.”

“Though our hearts feel his absence, we find peace in knowing that his life had purpose and meaning. We trust that he now rests in God’s eternal care, where there is peace beyond pain and joy without end. His love remains with us always, and his memory will forever be a blessing,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the children, Bishop Olusegun Frederick Adekola reflected on his father’s enduring influence. "You went all out to ensure I got the best out of life. You taught me service to God and humanity. We spoke just two days before your demise, and how I wish I knew that would be our last conversation. Rest on, my Daddy,” he said.

Mrs. Oluwafifunmi Abayomi, one of his daughters, described her father as a man whose principles defined his legacy.

“He lived by values, morals and integrity. Through his actions, he taught patience, resilience and the courage to do what is right. His legacy lives on in the standards he set and the lives he touched,” she said.

Other children and grandchildren echoed similar sentiments, recalling a father who insisted on family prayers, church attendance and steadfast trust in God. They remembered him as a pillar of strength who bore challenges silently while remaining generous and supportive.

“He led by example, instilled the fear of God, and invested deeply in the education and well-being of his family,” a family member noted.

Thursday’s burial ceremony is expected to feature a solemn church service conducted by The Mountain Of Fire Ministries, tributes from family and clergy, and interment rites attended by associates from Ibadan, Abuja and beyond. For many, the gathering will not only mark the end of a life well lived but also celebrate a legacy rooted in faith, compassion and enduring impact.

As Nigeria prepares to lay Pa Fatai Olalekan Adekola to rest, he is remembered not merely for the 81 years he spent on earth, but for the love he shared, the lives he influenced and the enduring example of godliness and service he leaves behind.