By Godknows B. Igali
In virtually all cultures of the world, the age of 90 is not only venerated but also seen as signifying the attainment of the full life cycle and the apogee of spiritual growth. Beyond that, this age is considered as the epitome of accumulation of knowledge and insight into the things of life. This is why nonagenarians are particularly revered in Africa and seen as the veritable source of wisdom. Indeed, the attainment of the age of 90 also connotes resilience through the vicissitudes of daily existence.
Born on 11th September 1934 into a world of cultural richness, entrepreneurial pre-eminence, and political complexity, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion has emerged as a formidable leader, philanthropist, and a beacon of hope for many. His father, Pa Obazaghonmwen Igbinedion, was a famous agriculturist of his day and traditional healer. This particularly inducted him, quite early to the nuances of discipline, hard work, and respect for culture emblematic of Benin life.
At a time when persons with the attainment of this vaunted age are regarded as endangered species, especially in Nigeria and the global south, for the timeless Chief Igbinedion, it was a time of incomparable celebration, both before and after the D-day. Rather lavishly, the much venerated businessman and traditional authority rolled out the big drums for a period of two months to mark the celebration of his ascend to the ninth floor of life.
Quite impassionate, virtually all known professional and socio-cultural groups from all over Nigeria, West Africa, and the Caribbeans trooped in streams into the palacious and picturesque Igbinedion country home in Okada town. The ancient town of Okada, located in Ovia North Local Government Area of Edo State, lies resplendent on the outskirts of Benin City. The town goes back to the 12th and 15th centuries when human settlement trickled into it during the reigns of Ogiso Igodo (early dynasty) and Oba Ewuare 1, the Great, respectively. The town soon became a strategic military outpost for the Benin Kingdom.
A WIDE BUSINESS EMPIRE
Unarguably, Chief Igbinedion attained a status as one of Nigeria’s most successful entrepreneurs in the country’s history. A thoroughly self-made man, having received education both in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he grew exponentially in career pursuits. From his nestling days as a Police Constable in 1953, he rose to become a crack anti-crime Sergeant in 1956. In addition to his maternal hawk-eyed rigour and ingrained Benin ethical values, the five years in Police service taught him enough discipline, order, and perseverance. So in 1958, branched off from uniform to engage in petty produce trading and steadily grew to become one of Africa’s most accomplished private sector operators. His portfolio includes real estate, in most major towns of Nigeria such as Abuja, Benin City, Lagos, Ibadan, etc. As far back as 1968, he built his Igbinedion Estate of commercial and residential properties in Benin. He also owns Igbinedion Hotels and large-scale agriculture estates. Beyond Nigerian shores, in places such as the United Kingdom, the business mogul owns virtually an entire street in upscale north of London, and not the least in a number of other places like South Africa and the United States of America.
Chief Igbinedion’s hands are also into banking, being the quiet majority shareholder in a number of the country’s large banks. He started with his Igbinedion Bank, later International Trust Bank and Okada Microfinance Bank. In addition to these, he also owns businesses in the oil and gas sector and lately in Renewable Energy and is one of Nigeria’s first and leading investors in solid minerals, especially in marbles, diamond and gold.
Not the least, he veered into aviation, becoming in the 1980s the proprietor of Okada Air. This took a cue from his land transport business and leading sole dealership of major vehicle brands such as Mercedes and Toyota, which commenced in 1962. At the peak of its operations, the now defunct Okada Air owned over 40 aircrafts. Indeed, it was one of the leading Nigerian brands with destinations covering all of Nigeria. Similarly, in the media space, he is the core investor of several print outlets and the Independent Television Network (ITV) and Radio Continental network.
A RESOURCEFUL PRIVATE EDUCATOR
Perhaps Chief Igbinedion’s most profound impact in Nigeria’s social and economic life is his pioneering investment in the education sector. From his young days, he displayed a knack for supporting education development. Even before he branched off to invest directly in the sector, he had been the main brain behind the growth of education development around the Okada area and Benin Kingdom in general. In 1982, he established the Igbinedion Educational Centre, which soon became a place of national reference.
Chief Igbinedion, however, took a bolder step after many decades of legwork and laying foundation to establish the Igbinedion University in Okada in 1999. This was the pioneering step in all of the country as it was the first private university. Today, this institution is not only rated as one of the outstanding private universities in the country but particularly praised for its arduous commitment to quality education and excellence. Another outstanding quality of this institution is its wide assortment of courses, all of which are accredited. Its relatively low fees status makes it affordable to all of those who desire such tertiary education.
Besides this, he continues to empower countless young people through scholarships and educational programs and the opportunities to excel. He believes, “Education is the key to unlocking the potential of our youth.” His commitment to education extends beyond formal institutions; he has also initiated various vocational training programs aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills for the job market.
AND THE LEADERSHIP FOOTPRINT
Accounts have it that young Gabriel Igbinedion’s leadership acumen became obvious from his youngest days; as he emerged early as a handyman for all common causes. The young man became synonymous with service and volunteerism in Okada. As time went on, he extended this to the level of the Benin Kingdom, becoming a most valuable “Mr. Fix It” for all the Obas of Benin during his lifetime. It is on account of this that the 37th Oba of Benin, Akenzua II honoured him with the high chieftaincy title of “Esama of Benin” – i.e., a most valued son. As the Esama of Benin, he has not only represented his people but has also worked tirelessly to elevate their status within the broader Nigerian context. It is commonly acknowledged that his leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, vision, and an unwavering dedication to the development of Edo State and Nigeria at large. Through various initiatives, even at this ripe age, he always makes himself available to serve Nigeria in all sectors, especially in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He is also regarded as a major “kingmaker” in Nigeria’s political circles, exuding influence and enjoying the respect of virtually every major political leader in the country. In-house, he has encouraged and supported his children to pursue careers in politics. Besides the fact that his son, Lucky Igbinedion, was first elected governor in the current Fourth Republic, several of his other offspring have continued to serve in public offices in Nigeria at various levels.
AUTHENTIC AMBASSADOR OF CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS
The Benin people, also known as Edo people, are one of the pre-dominant ethnic nationalities of Edo State in Nigeria. They are the epicentre of the Edoid people of South-South Nigeria, which encompasses such other groups such as Esan, Etsako, Urhobo, Isoko, Ogba, etc. Of all Nigeria’s ethnic groups, Benin has stood out to be builders of complex centralized political structures. In addition, it is common knowledge that the Benin people built one of the most celebrated monarchical structures in the world. Its present dynasty, which was founded by Eweka I in the 12th century, has, most of the time, maintained a successful primogeniture tradition (from father to first son) succession record.
At a point, the kingdom stretched to cover a good part of Southern and Central Nigeria as well as extending into Dahomey (now Benin Republic). What the Portuguese travellers referred 700 years ago to as a “type of Venice”, the Benin Kingdom attained global dominance in ivory, brass, and bronze works, especially naturalistic heads. When the Portuguese first arrived West Africa 700 years ago, Benin City, housing the powerful and wealthy monarchs, had street lights and city walls (moats), which extended for well over fifteen kilometres. This is considered by Guinness Book of Records as the world’s second largest man-made structure, next to the China Great Walls.
Chief Igbinedion’s unending efforts to preserve and promote Edo culture have strengthened community identity and pride. By sponsoring cultural events within and outside Nigeria and supporting local artisans, he has fostered a renaissance of traditional practices, ensuring that the rich heritage of his people remains vibrant for future generations. Furthermore, he has been instrumental in supporting the restoration of historical sites and monuments, reinforcing the significance of Benin’s legacy in Nigeria’s historical narrative.
AVOWED PAN-AFRICANIST CREDO
From end of the 19th century when the types of Caribbean-American political activists Marcus Garvey and Edward Blyden, formed the Universal Negro Improvement Association and Africa’s Community League, the thrust of pan-Africanism as a mantra encompassing historical, cultural, spiritual, philosophical and even economic antecedents of people of African descent have become a currency on both the continent and Africans in Diaspora. Quietly, Chief Igbinedion has continued to be seized with promoting these ideals of universal Africanism and negritude. Particularly emboldened by his marital connection through his adored wife, Jamaica-born Lady Cheryl, Chief Igbinedion became one of the main exponents in bringing all people of black descent together.
Chief Igbinedion’s contributions to Pan-Africanism reflect his vision for a united Africa and a commitment to fostering solidarity among African nations. He continues to passionately participate in initiatives aimed at promoting African unity, recognizing that collaboration is essential for the continent’s progress. Through various forums and partnerships, he has championed economic cooperation and cultural exchange among African nations.
ARDENT HUMANITARIANISM
In addition to his contributions to education, culture, and Pan-Africanism, Esama’s philanthropic works have transformed millions of lives in Nigeria. He has established numerous healthcare facilities, providing essential services to communities all around the country. His commitment to empowering the youth through education and healthcare highlights his belief that true leadership extends beyond politics; it is about uplifting the lives of others.
A FINAL THOUGHT
The Nigerian nation has, providentially, produced some of the greatest persons of black and African descent. Although many are gone, gladly, we still have a good number of the 90 plus who are still alive and thriving in the public space. This pantheon includes such mortal heroes as Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Chief Edwin Clark, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Prof. Akin Mabogunje. Others are Oba Sikiru Adetona, Prof. Bolanle Awe, Prof E.J. Alagoa, Prof. Sylvanus Cookey, Owelle Gabriel Chikelu, Amb. Abdullahi Atta, Amb. Ignatius Olisemeka, Amb. Judith Atta, Chief Philip Asiodu, Prof. Youpele Beredugo and Prof. Wole Soyinka. Nearby is Gen. Yakubu Gowon on standby to join in a few days, etc. However, this list is greatly incomplete, especially if the ebullient Esama is not given his proper place. Gladly, he has severally been honoured as Esama of Benin, Ozomo of Weppa-Wanno, Ohonhere of Etsako, all in Edo State. He is also a member of the Benin Traditional Council and was conferred the high honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
At this new age, Esama stands as a testament to resilience and vision. His life’s work continues to inspire a new generation of leaders. To many Nigerians who feel greatly devoted to him, he exemplifies the values of integrity, service, and dedication, which are crucial for overcoming the challenges faced by contemporary society. As Nigeria grapples with various socio-economic issues, the principles that Chief Igbinedion embodies remain relevant and necessary.
Celebrating this icon at 90 is not just about honouring a remarkable individual; it is about recognizing the impact of his life’s work on countless lives. His legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and cultural advocacy serves as a guiding light for future generations. His story is one of hope, determination, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society, a narrative that will continue to find a place of great reckoning and reference to all Nigerians and persons of Black and African descent for years to come.
Congratulations, global Esama.
Dr. Igali is a diplomat and administrator.