By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
A PIONEERING figure in Nigerian politics and diplomacy, Chief Adenike Ebun Oyagbola, has passed away at the age of 94.
She died on Friday at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and commitment to public service.
As the country’s first female minister of cabinet rank, her groundbreaking role as the country’s first female cabinet minister paved the way for women in governance, leaving an enduring legacy of service and leadership.
Oyagbola was appointed Minister of National Planning in 1979 under President Shehu Shagari’s administration, holding the position until 1983.
She was born on May 5, 1931, in Igan Alade, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
She had an early foundation in education that shaped her career. Then, she trained as a teacher before venturing into public service and politics.
Her journey in governance began after obtaining an accountancy degree in the United Kingdom.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 1963, she joined the Federal Civil Service and worked in the Ministry of Finance. Her expertise in financial management and public administration propelled her into leadership, eventually leading to her historic ministerial appointment.
Though her attempt to secure a Senate seat in 1979 was unsuccessful, her political career remained influential.
As Minister of National Planning, she contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development policies, setting a precedent for women in leadership.
After leaving office in 1983, she later served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico, with concurrent accreditation to Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala from 1999 to 2003.
Beyond politics and diplomacy, Oyagbola championed societal transformation through Attitudinal Healing, advocating for moral rejuvenation, youth empowerment, and national development. Her efforts sought to instill values of ethical leadership and social responsibility in Nigeria.
Chief Oyagbola held numerous chieftaincy titles, including Yeye-Oba of Ketu. Governor Abiodun, in his condolence message, expressed gratitude for her service and impact, praying for her family and the people of Yewa North to find strength in their loss.
Ogun Governor Mourns
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has described her as a woman of exceptional courage, humility, and a strong will for service.
He noted that Oyagbola paved the way for African women in governance, advocating for gender equality and female participation in politics.
“I want to commiserate with the people and the entire family of Akinola og Igan-alade in Yewa North Local Government over the passing of their illustrious daughter and a good ambassador of our dear state, Chief Adenike Oyagbola, who made us proud in the Second Republic as the first female Minister of cabinet rank.
“We thank God for her eventful and glorious years of service to humanity as a leading politician and celebrated diplomat of high repute. May God Almighty rest her soul and continue to protect her lovely family,” Abiodun said.
Penpushing also reports the family in a statement by Adebayo Oyagbola confirmed the demise of the woman who also former former Ambassador to Mexico
“With gratitude to the Almighty God for a life well spent, we announce the demise of our Mother, Grandmother, and Sister, Chief Mrs. Adenike Ebun Oyagbola, who passed away on Friday February 28, 2025”, the statement reads.
