Nigeria Bids Farewell To Telecoms Pillar

Nigeria has paid final respects to a man who helped shape the nation’s telecommunications landscape and stood as a pillar of cultural leadership, High Chief Ganiyu Aremu Babayeju-Alemo, the Aare Onakakanfo of Egbaland.

Buried in Gbangba Ijaye, Abeokuta, in accordance with Islamic rites, the late high chief’s life was celebrated in grand fashion at an 8th-day Fidau prayer held on March 18 at the DLK Events Center.

The event brought together a robust assembly of dignitaries, traditional rulers, religious leaders, business executives and loved ones in a tribute to a man whose legacy spans industry and tradition.

A trailblazer in Nigeria’s telecoms sector, High Chief Babayeju-Alemo rose from Chief Technical Officer at IPTC (West Africa) to founding Telecommunications Construction Company (TCC Nigeria Ltd). His leadership helped shape modern telecommunications infrastructure across West Africa.

He also co-founded the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), becoming its first National Publicity Secretary and setting a path for advocacy and growth in the industry.

However, his influence extended beyond the corporate world. In 2005, he was installed as Balogun and traditional head of Ijaye, and a year later, he was crowned the Aare Onakakanfo of Egbaland—a revered warrior title signifying supreme dedication to the defence and development of the Egba nation.

Led by top Islamic clerics, including the Chief Imam of Egbaland and Imam Saadahllah Bamgbola, the Fidau was marked by Quranic recitations, prayers, and Sadaqah. Tributes flowed from figures like High Chief Rasheed Raji, who delivered a message on behalf of the Alake of Egbaland, HRM Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, lauding the late chief’s unwavering service to the Ijaye and Egba communities.

Industry peers like Mr. J.O. Akindele and Chief Joju Fadairo recounted his foresight, humility, and influence. A powerful personal tribute from his son, Taopheek Babayeju, spoke to his legacy of integrity, vision, and compassion. His eldest son, Basorun Ibraheem Babayeju, delivered the vote of thanks.

A keynote lecture by Abdulsoburu Amolegbe reflected on the moral and spiritual qualities that defined the late chief’s life—values needed more than ever in today’s leadership.