Less than 2 weeks to the IKODASS election and imminent the change of guard at the leading socio-cultural association, one aspirant who is standing tall above others is Alh. Fatai Kolawole Olayiwola Ogunfodunrin, popularly known as De-Groom.
Kolawole Olayiwola, a former Deputy Chairman of the body has become the candidate to beat, with many wondering who he is.
Based on popular demand, our correspondent has therefore dug into the background of this community builder per excellence.
FAMILY BACKGROUND
Alh. Fatai Kolawole Olayiwola was born in Ikorodu, Lagos State on 18th November 1960, shortly after Nigeria gained her independence from the colonial rulers.
He was born into the family of PA OKE- YESUFU OGUNFODUNRIN COMPOUND OF ITUN-OJORU , IJOMU AREA OF IKORODU.
His father’s name is Late chief KOLAWOLE Adisa OGUNFODUNRIN (a.k.a Gbengbelekun) a renowned Magbo IJOMU singer and Late Alhaja Afusat Amoke from ADIFA- KUTI Family of Aga, Ikorodu.
EDUCATION
Young Fatai had his Elementary school education at the African Bethel Primary School, Ikorodu where his leadership gift was first discovered and was appointed the school’s Head Boy due to his academic brilliance. He later proceeded to Badagry Grammar School for his secondary education.
In search of deeper knowledge and exposure, Alh. Kolawole Olayiwola Fatai enrolled at the now defunct prestigious Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu where he bagged his Ordinary National Diploma (OND) certificate. He later enrolled for his HND in Business Administration from the same institution graduating with Upper Credit.
This is apart from taking courses and attending capacity building training both locally and internationally.
WORKING EXPERIENCE
Alh. Fatai enrolled for and was recruited into the Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS ) in 1979, growing through the ranks and rising to the position of Superintendent of Customs in 2008, when he retired from active service. This was after serving his nation meritoriously for 29 years.
PRIVATE BUSINESS
Though retired but not tired, Alh. Fatai Kolawola Olayiwola went into private business shortly after retirement, establishing De Groom Hotels at Ogijo, Ogun State.
He subsequently diversified into importation of automobiles by establishing De Groom Motors Ltd., an automobile company that deals in the importation of all kinds of automobiles.
He currently serves as the CEO of the company.
De Groom automobile brand has now become a leading and reputable brand beyond Ikorodu, where it is located to other parts of Lagos State and beyond.
The automobile company currently services several corporate organizations, government institutions and many high profile individuals across Nigeria.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Though, a very hardworking business man, Alh. Fatai Kolawole is also a passionate community builder who has contributed immensely to the socio-cultural development of Ikorodu.
Prominent among his service to Ikorodu was his commendable role as the Deputy Chairman of Ikorodu Oga Development Association ( IKODASS) between 2017-2021 under the visionary leadership of a retired Permanent Secretary and former Clerk of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Otunba Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru, FICA.
SOCIAL LIFE
Alh. Kolawole Fatai is a socialite of repute and a a firm believer in the mantra, ‘all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’, hence his membership of one of Ikorodu’s prominent social clubs, Ikorodu Harmony Brothers where he seves as the Club Treasurer.
RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES
Alh. Kolawole is also a strong believer in the Islamic faith.
He currently serves as the Chairmanship of Nadwat Global Assembly Ikorodu Branch.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Alh. Fatai Olayiwola’s business and professional astuteness was recently recognized when he was elected as the Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Chambers of Commerce and Industry ( ICCI), a body comprising reputable business men and women as well as corporate professionals from all walks of life.
FAMILY LIFE
Alh. Fatai Olayiwola Kolawole is happily married and is a responsible father to wonderful children who are making him and Ikorodu proud across the globe.
