Lagos Agog As Aare Safiriyu, Business Icon, Community Leader Celebrates 70

It was a moment of joy for Ijebu-born oil magnate and community leader, Aare Safiriyu Kazeem Adebanjo, Chairman of SAF Petroleum, who also holds the revered titles of Aare Musulumi of Ago-Iwoye and Balogun Adinni Okunrin of Ogun State Muslims. He recently celebrated his 70th birthday with fanfare.

The colourful celebration, held at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, featured electrifying entertainment by Fuji legend, K1 De Ultimate, and recorded a massive turnout of guests from both Ijebu and Lagos.

Among the distinguished attendees were the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who was ably represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tokunbo Talabi; the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; and the celebrant’s monarch, the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, HRH Oba Razaq Adenugba. 

Others included HRH Oba Awobajo, the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo; Senator Lekan Mustapha; and the Ojotumoro of Abigi, HRH Oba 'Segun Ogunye; also present were the Olori Omooba and Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ago-Iwoye, Prince Feyisayo Soyewo; the Baba Oba of Ago-Iwoye, Major General Awosanya (rtd); HRH Oba Oluseyi Muheedeen; and Otunba Kolawole Onakoya, Chairman of World K Oil & Gas.

Speaking briefly at the gathering, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Salako-Oyedele, celebrated the celebrant with heartfelt prayers, wishing that Almighty Allah grant him many more years to continue his philanthropic gestures and enjoy life at the distinguished age of 70.

The Chairman of the Day, Prince Feyisayo Soyewo, in his remarks, described the celebrant as “one in a million,” stating that he deserves every accolade he receives.

According to him, "Alhaji Safiriyu relates warmly with everyone around him. We are here to celebrate him because of his long-time commitment and endurance. Aare Safiriyu is not just a brother but a man of honour by every standard."

The Issues Magazine and YouTube TV Show illustrates the event as colourful and extravagant celebration, which testified to the outstanding personality of Alhaji Safiriyu Adebanjo, as the hall was filled to capacity with distinguished Nigerians honouring him.

Aare Safiriyu Adebanjo Kazeem is a distinguished businessman, philanthropist, and community leader whose contributions to business and society are remarkable. As the Chairman and Founder of SAF Petroleum Limited, a reputable indigenous company with strong interests in the oil and gas sector, he has built a legacy of excellence and impact.

His leadership extends beyond business, as seen in his respected roles as Aare Musulumi of Ago-Iwoye and Balogun Musulumi of Ogun State, reflecting his influence in both religious and social spheres.

Born under the zodiac sign Gemini on June 11, 1955, Aare Safiriyu’s life has been marked by determination, vision, and ambition. He hails from a respected family in Idode Quarters, Ago-Iwoye, where his father, Pa Kazeem, was a notable community leader. Inspired by his father’s mentorship, he developed a strong sense of purpose and leadership from an early age.

His education began in Ago-Iwoye, where he completed his primary and secondary schooling before relocating to Lagos, where he ventured into business. A firm believer in self-development, Aare Safiriyu continued to pursue academic growth, culminating in a recent honorary Ph.D. awarded by a prestigious Nigerian university.

His entrepreneurial journey reflects hard work, resilience, and strategic foresight. He began humbly as a petrol attendant at Total Filling Station, Ijora, Lagos (1974–1979). He rose through the ranks, working at several filling stations, before becoming a dealer for Unipetrol at Ita-Oshin, Abeokuta, and later in Agege, Lagos. Determined to build something of his own, he founded SAF Petroleum Limited in 1988.

Over the years, he expanded his business empire into real estate, investments, dredging, and quarrying through SAF Investment and Properties. His consistent commitment to excellence has grown his businesses nationwide, establishing him as a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Beyond business, Aare Safiriyu is passionate about community development and philanthropy. Through his Foundation, he has launched numerous humanitarian projects, including the construction of modern classrooms in various primary and secondary schools in Ago-Iwoye to mark his 60th birthday, scholarship programs for students in secondary and tertiary institutions, and continuous support for community development initiatives. His steadfast commitment to education, infrastructure, and social welfare has made him a beacon of hope.

Aare Safiriyu is also a socialite and cultural enthusiast who values relationships and communal engagement. He is a member of esteemed social clubs, including Ijebu Ode Club, Honourable Brothers Club in Lagos, and Ikeja Country Club.

His love for Ijebu culture, Yoruba traditions, and community mobilization has made him a unifying figure, always championing initiatives that foster unity and progress. He has consistently contributed to fundraisers and development programs that improve the quality of life for his people.

A devout Muslim, Aare Safiriyu lives by the values of compassion, humility, honesty, and service. His titles as Aare Musulumi of Ago-Iwoye and Balogun Musulumi of Ogun State reflect his spiritual commitment and leadership. His faith-driven lifestyle, grounded in charity, patience, and kindness, continues to inspire those around him.

Aare Safiriyu Adebanjo Kazeem stands as a visionary leader, accomplished businessman, and highly respected philanthropist. His humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to societal progress have earned him admiration across business, religious, and social spheres. His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and a tireless pursuit of excellence—an inspiration for present and future generations.

- Oluseun ODUNEYE, Abeokuta