SIR (DR.) CHIEF KESINGTON ADEBUKUNOLA ADEBUTU: CELEBRATING THE MESSENGER OF GOD AND AMBASSADOR FOR CHRIST AT 90

By: Temitope OYEKAN
First published in the Echoes of The Sage Magazine (a publication of Ikenne Local Government), in October, 2010; and updated in October, 2025.

As the golden sun rose on Friday, October 24, 2025, the serene ambience of Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, radiated joy, pride, and gratitude. People from all walks of life gathered, not merely to mark the passage of time, but to celebrate a monumental milestone: the 90th birthday of a titan of humanity, Sir (Dr.) Chief Kesington Adebukunola ADEBUTU, OON, CON, CFR, GCON, KJW, FISM, FGPS, FNIJ, FAmedS, the Baba Oba and Balogun of Iperu Akesanland, Balogun of Remoland, Asoju Oba of Lagos, and Odole Oodua of The Source.

A Life of Grace and Purpose

Born ninety years ago into the noble ADEBUTU family of Iperu-Akesanland, to the late Pa Kareem Folarin ADEBUTU (Owo Iya), and Alhaja Seliat Olasumbo ADEBUTU, Sir Kesington ADEBUTU's life is an attestation to divine grace, resilience, and purposeful living. Rising from humble beginnings, he has carved an indelible mark across Nigeria’s socio-economic, cultural, and philanthropic landscapes. An unassuming elder statesman with a rare blend of humility and strength, Chief ADEBUTU embodies integrity, compassion, and service. His journey from modest roots to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected business icons and philanthropists reflects a life powered by diligence, foresight, and a resolute belief in the goodness of humanity.

A Visionary Entrepreneur and Business Mogul

Sir Kesington ADEBUTU stands tall among Nigeria’s foremost business magnates. As founder, chairman, and major shareholder of enterprises spanning lotto and gaming, banking, construction, real estate, and oil and gas; he has played a pivotal role in job creation, economic growth, and national development. His business acumen is matched only by his heart for service, constantly seeking to uplift others and expand opportunities for the less privileged.

The Heart of a Philanthropist

Chief ADEBUTU’s philanthropy is legendary, touching lives across Nigeria through the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF), a beacon of hope for the underprivileged. KAAF has provided scholarships, healthcare, youth empowerment, sports development, care for the elderly, and infrastructural projects that have transformed communities. 

His health interventions, for instance, have been lifesaving, personally sponsoring medical treatments for Iperu indigenes and residents, including those from neighbouring communities, at health institutions like Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu; University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan; Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife; and Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta. On numerous occasions, i have led some of the beneficiaries to the health facilities on the directive of my former principal, Hon. Oladipupo ADEBUTU. At some point, Sir ADEBUTU in acknowledgement of my diligence, requested for my secondment from his son, who accepted to always release me to him whenever such need arises.

His contributions to education are equally remarkable. Institutions like Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Sapade, Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), and Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), and others outside Ogun State have benefited from his donations, including libraries, administrative blocks, laboratories, research centres and lecture auditoriums, fostering academic excellence across Ogun State.
I also had the honour of joining Hon. ADEBUTU to accompany Sir Kesington ADEBUTU to some of his projects commissioning and awards conferment.

Equally commendable is his recent donation of the sum of #1billion to his homeland, Iperu alongside the #1billion each that was donated to the trio of  Ikenne, Sagamu, Remo North Local Governments

His philanthropy transcends tribe, religion, and region, reflecting his status as a detribalized Nigerian and bridge-builder. Through KAAF, his generosity complements government efforts in community development, proving that private compassion can amplify public purpose.

A Pillar of Faith and Community

A devout Christian and Baba Ijo of Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Iperu, Sir ADEBUTU is celebrated as a Pillar of Methodism in Nigeria, an Ambassador for Christ, and Patron and Baba Igbagbo of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). His philanthropy is anchored in faith, inspired by scripture and guided by the conviction that “true wealth lies not in what is stored in the bank, but in what is shared.” As noted by His Grace, The Most Rev. Atanda Adegbemi ADEWALE, Archbishop of the RIYE Archdiocese and Bishop of Egba Diocese, Methodist Church Nigeria, this philosophy remains a timeless lesson for all who seek meaning in material success.

The Odole Oodua: A Custodian of Yoruba Unity

Chief ADEBUTU's appointment as the Odole Oodua, a highly revered chieftaincy in Yorubaland pioneered by the great Oranmiyan while still a Prince of Ife, underscores his role as a unifier and cultural ambassador. 

Historically occupied by luminaries like the late Chief Obafemi AWOLOWO and Chief G.O.K. AJAYI, the Odole Oodua works closely with the Ooni of Ife to rally the descendants of Oduduwa worldwide for unity, peace, and progress. Chief ADEBUTU's selection reflects his philanthropy, positive contributions to human development, and dedication to promoting Yoruba cultural values and traditions. His milk of human kindness resonates far beyond Iperu, embodying the essence of this prestigious title.

A Bridge-Builder and Peacemaker

Chief ADEBUTU’s influence extends beyond business and philanthropy; he is a respected voice of reason and reconciliation. His pivotal role in brokering peace between the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye OGUNWUSI, (Ojaja II), and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola OWOADE, remains a testament to his statesmanship and wisdom. As Iperu’s foremost son and patriarch, his community prays he will continue to deploy this divine grace to mediate any social, religious, or political challenges in Iperu and its environs, fostering peace, unity, and development.

Honor and Recognition

Chief ADEBUTU's contributions have earned him accolades from traditional institutions, academic bodies, and professional organizations. He holds prestigious chieftaincy titles, including Baba Oba and Balogun of Iperu Akesanland, Balogun of Remoland, Asoju Oba of Lagos, and Odole Oodua of The Source. Universities and institutions have conferred honorary doctorate degrees, fellowships, and awards in recognition of his distinguished service to humanity and nation-building.

A Legacy Etched in Humanity

Chief ADEBUTU’s life is a sermon of impact, humility, and enduring relevance. His benevolence and commitment to human advancement speak louder than words. Through decades of selfless giving, he has become a moral compass and mentor to generations. He is a symbol of divine grace and mercy. As he marked his 90th year, I joined the people of Iperu Akesanland, Remoland, Ogun State, and Nigeria in offering thanksgiving for preserving this rare gem. 

I also remember his beloved wife, Dame Caroline Oladunni ADEBUTU (Yeyemode), and departed associates, among whom are the late Chief Solomon AYOKU; Chief Kesington Olujimi ODUKOYA (former Aro of Iperu); Oba Omosanya Abimbola AKINYEMI (former Ebi of Idena, Iperu); Alhaji Talib Olusola OGUNNOIKI (Remonic); Chief Duro OTESANYA (Baba Ijo, Methodist Church, Irolu); and Otunba Tiwalade SOBO–Indomie (former Executive Chairman, Ikenne Local Government); whose shared visions enriched his path. May their souls rest in peace.

A Patriarch Honoured at Home

As the Patriarch of Iperu Akesanland and Father of the Day at the grand finale of the 39th Akesan  Day Celebrations on holding on Saturday, the 29th of November, 2025, Iperu eagerly awaits its distinguished son. His presence will no doubt symbolize the unity, progress, and peace he has long championed, weaving together the past, present, and future of Iperu-Akesanland.
 

A Toast to a Living Legend

At 90, Sir (Dr.) Chief Kesington Adebukunola ADEBUTU remains a shining beacon of hope, faith, and service, a rare embodiment of living for others. As the nation celebrates this Messenger of God and Ambassador for Christ, i pray that the Almighty grants him continued health, strength, and joy among family, friends, and admirers. May his legacy of kindness, faith, and philanthropy, endure through generations yet unborn.

Congratulations and best wishes to the Baba Igbagbo, Baba Oba, Balogun of Iperu-Akesanland, Balogun of Remoland, and Odole Oodua of The Source; a true son of Iperu, a pride of Remoland, a blessing to Ogun State, and a priceless gift to Nigeria and humanity. 

Temitope OYEKAN , a retired Deputy Director of Information  was the immediate past Head, Information, Education and Sports, Ikenne Local Government.
He served as the Editor in Chief of The SAGE Magazine