* As Alhaji Oladejo marks 80th Birthday with prayer, reception in Lagos
* Says leadership is not in holding a title but in serving with purpose and vision
From a humble beginning in the heart of Ibadan to the pinnacles of Nigeria’s economic, financial, and religious leadership, the life story of Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, FCS, is nothing short of inspiring – a testament to resilience, intellect, and unwavering commitment to national development and Islamic values.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born in Latoyo’s compound, Oritamerin, Ibadan, in 1945, Alhaji Oladejo began his education at Islamic Mission School, Odoye in 1953.
By 1962, he enrolled at the Muslim Teachers’ Training College, Surulere, Lagos, where he rose to become Senior Prefect in 1968, the same year he completed his Grade Two Teachers’ Course.
His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Lagos in 1971, where he earned a Second Class Upper Degree in Economics in 1975 on a Federal Government scholarship.
Recognizing his academic promise, the Federal Government again sponsored him in 1979 for a Master’s in Development Economics at Boston University, USA, which he completed in 1980.
Public Service and Planning Expertise
Upon his return, Alhaji Oladejo played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic planning as a Planning Officer in the Ministry of National Planning. His work included forecasting revenue, GDP, and trade dynamics. Rising to Principal Planning Officer and Head of Research, he was actively involved in collaborative macroeconomic modeling with institutions like NISER, University of Ibadan, and the World Bank.
He represented Nigeria at major international gatherings, including World Bank, IMF, and Commonwealth Finance Ministers Meetings in 1982 and 1983.
Transforming the Private Sector and Capital Markets
In December 1983, Alhaji Oladejo transitioned to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry as Head of Research and Business Advisory Services. There, he left an indelible mark, championing research-backed advocacy for Nigeria’s private sector.
He coordinated the publication of a centenary book on the Chamber, a historic documentation applauded both locally and internationally.
His next significant chapter began in September 1989 when he joined The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). He was at the forefront of its modernization, serving as Project Director for the Automated Trading System (ATS)—a monumental shift from the manual system to a digital trading environment. By December 2000, he had risen to Deputy Director-General and Chief Operating Officer, and retired in 2003 after 14 years of transformative service.
Corporate Leadership and Boardroom Legacy
In retirement, Alhaji Oladejo became a sought-after expert and boardroom strategist. He served on the boards of African Alliance Plc, GraceCo Ltd, and as Chairman of Sigma Pensions Ltd, where he steered the company from a start-up to a market leader between 2005 and 2018.
He also founded Mountain Investment and Securities Ltd and chairs Bishop & Knight Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Faith, Philanthropy, and National Recognition
A devout Muslim, Alhaji Oladejo has held numerous high-ranking positions in Islamic organizations, including serving as President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni, Pioneer Chairman of the Muslim Welfare Fund, Past National President of the Nawair-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, and Chairman of Nudivest Hajj and Umrah Services Ltd.
In November 2020, he was elected 4th President of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN).
A month later, he was appointed Deputy President-General (South) of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Dr. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni.
His contributions earned him a seat on The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) and Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP)—advancing peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.
Accolades and Affiliations
A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (FCS), Alhaji Oladejo was honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award (2009) by the University of Lagos Alumni Association and recognized by the Nigerian Association of Securities Dealers for championing technology in the capital market.
He is also a member of Ikoyi Club 1938 and the immediate past President of Oluyole Club, Lagos, a socio-cultural association of Ibadan elites.
A Living Legacy
Married with children, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo exemplifies the values of service, scholarship, leadership, and spirituality. Whether in economic policy rooms, stock market halls, religious summits, or philanthropic circles, his legacy continues to inspire generations.
“Alhaji Oladejo is not just a figure of national relevance; he is a symbol of what commitment to faith, intellect, and integrity can achieve.” — University of Lagos Alumni Association.
Set to mark 80th Birthday with special prayer, reception in Lagos
Alhaji Oladejo will clock 80 years on Sunday, June 22, 2025 and to celebrate the great day, a special prayer and reception have been organised for him by committee of friends which is expected to hold on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday June 29 respectively at undisclosed locations in Lagos.
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