Kunle Adelabu
Ikorodu -born businesswoman and the richest woman in Africa, Apostle Folorunsho Alakija has celebrated the faithfulness of God in her live as she celebrates her 75th birthday anniversary.
Alakija born July 15th, 1951, to Chief Lamidi Ogbara, a prominent, wealthy businessman from Ikorodu, Lagos State, Southwest, Nigeria
In a brief statement on her Facebook page today, Folorunsho Alakija, glorifying God for His faithfulness in her life for 75 years, wrote:
“Looking back over the years, I can only say that God has been faithful.”
“To Him alone be all the glory.
:Psalm 92:12-15,” she stated celebrating her birthday.”
Alakija’s massive fortune primarily stems from her stake in Famfa Oil, which holds a significant interest in Agbami deep-water offshore oil field in Nigeria.
But tellingly, her source of wealth far exceeded her interest in the petroleum sector with her other major ventures which include: The Rose of Sharon Group, a business conglomerate, which includes real estate developments (DaySpring Property Development) and fashion.
The renowned businesswoman actually built her career as a fashion designer in Nigeria, launching a high-end label that catered to elite clients.
In 2014, Forbes ranked Alakija as the 96th most powerful woman in the world, and by 2021, she was the wealthiest woman in Africa with an estimated net worth of $1 billion.
In 2021, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, conferred on her an honorary doctorate degree, while Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, in November 2022, bestowd an honorary doctorate on her.
Folorunso Alakija also served as Chancellor of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) from 2016 to 2026, following her appointment by the Osun State Government.
Her tenure ended on 18 March 2026 after completing two terms in office. The Osun State Government and university authorities publicly acknowledged her contributions to the institution’s development during her decade-long service.
Some of the well -wishers that felicitated the business tycoon on her page, congratulated and wished her well at 75 and beyond.
Isaac Jolayemi Olatunji, in his tributes, wrote:
“Happy 75th Birthday, Dr. Mrs. Folorunso Alakija!
“On this remarkable milestone, I celebrate a woman of uncommon grace, compassion, and generosity. Your life has been a tremendous blessing to countless families, bringing hope where there was despair and putting smiles on the faces of many through your monthly food support and numerous acts of kindness.
“As you mark your 75th birthday, may God continue to bless you with excellent health, renewed strength, divine wisdom, and abundant peace. May He reward your selfless service to humanity, enlarge your coast, and grant you many more fruitful years filled with joy, happiness, and fulfilment.
“Happy Diamond Jubilee and many happy returns!”
Another contributor, Hon Michael Okosun, also felicitating the celebrant, wrote:
“Happy glorious 75th Birthday, Apostle! We join you in giving all the glory to God for His unfailing faithfulness, grace, and mercy over your life. Thank you for being a shining light, an inspiration, and a vessel of honour. May the Lord grant you renewed strength, robust health, and many more years of impactful service in His vineyard. Have a beautiful celebration, Ma!
Edu Mayokun, in his own tribute described Folorunsho Alakija as a General of God.
“God’s own General. An Apostle of God
“Heavenly Father, we lift up this incredible woman of God before You today as she celebrates another year of life. We thank You for the grace, wisdom, and strength You have poured into her life, making her a beacon of light to many.
“Lord, we ask that You continue to bless the work of her hands and enlarge the coasts of her businesses, just as You have prospered her efforts thus far. May You grant her fresh oil for the new season, sustaining her health, her peace, and her joy in abundance.
“Strengthen her heart as she continues her work as a philanthropist; may the seeds of kindness and support she sows globally return to her in a bountiful harvest. Keep her tucked safely under the shadow of Your wings, guiding her steps and granting her the desires of her heart according to Your perfect will.
“We pray that she remains a vessel of honour, continually reflecting Your love and character to her family, her community, and the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Happy Birthday Mummy Folorunso Alakija.”
