Pius Akinyelure, born on October 10, 1942, at the age of 81, is a distinguished Nigerian figure renowned as an industrialist, businessman, administrator, and politician. Presently serving as a board member of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the nation’s state-owned oil company, Akinyelure also holds the esteemed position of National Vice Chairman (Southwest) within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling political party. His extensive contributions span multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy, including oil and gas, banking, manufacturing, and agriculture. Revered for his influence and esteemed status, he stands as one of Nigeria’s most influential and respected personalities.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 10, 1942, in Ondo State, Nigeria, Pius Akinyelure originates from the Yoruba ethnic group, known as one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential ethnicities. His educational journey led him to St. Joseph’s College in Ondo for his secondary education. Subsequently, he pursued higher studies at the University of Ibadan, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1966. Continuing his academic pursuits, he achieved a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Industrial Chemistry from the same university in 1971.
Career and Achievements
Pius Akinyelure embarked on his professional journey as a lecturer at the University of Ibadan, imparting knowledge in Chemistry for a span of six years. Transitioning into the corporate sphere, he joined Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc, an ExxonMobil subsidiary, in 1977. Within this esteemed organization, he ascended the ranks and eventually assumed the role of Executive Director in 1992, a pivotal position he held until his retirement in 2002. During his tenure, he oversaw the company’s marketing, distribution, and retail operations in Nigeria. Akinyelure also played a significant role in pioneering the development of Nigeria’s liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) market and introducing innovations like unleaded gasoline and low-sulfur diesel to the Nigerian market.
Pius Olu Akinyelure is a versatile entrepreneur and investor renowned for founding and overseeing multiple enterprises in Nigeria. He holds the position of founder and chairman at Banji Pius Akinyelure & Sons Limited, a diversified conglomerate with involvements spanning oil and gas, banking, manufacturing, and agriculture. Additionally, he serves as the chairman of First Atlantic Bank Plc, a prominent commercial bank in Nigeria. Akinyelure’s influence extends as a director across various esteemed companies, including Nigerian Breweries Plc, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, and Nigerian Bottling Company Plc.
Akinyelure is actively engaged in politics and holds a prominent position within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling political party. Elected as the National Vice Chairman (Southwest) in 2014 and subsequently re-elected in 2018, he shoulders the responsibility of organizing and galvanizing the party’s endeavors and members across the six states within Nigeria’s Southwest geopolitical zone. Furthermore, he serves as a vital member of the party’s National Executive Committee, which stands as the apex decision-making body. Notably, he maintains a strong alliance with President Muhammadu Buhari, the leader of the APC and Nigeria’s incumbent president, being a staunch supporter of his leadership.
Pius is actively involved in philanthropy and community leadership, dedicating himself to the advancement and well-being of his community and society at large. Serving as the founder and chairman of the Pius Akinyelure Foundation, a non-governmental organization, he spearheads initiatives offering scholarships, grants, and empowerment programs specifically tailored for the youth and women of Ondo State.
He also holds the position of chairman within the Ondo State Development Trust Fund, a crucial platform focused on rallying resources and establishing partnerships dedicated to propelling the development of Ondo State. Furthermore, he acts as a patron and significant supporter of numerous religious, cultural, and social institutions, including the Catholic Church, the Yoruba Cultural Association, and the Ondo Development Committee.
Personal Life, Spouse, and Family
Pius Olu Akinyelure is married to Mrs. Olufunke Akinyelure, a former commissioner of justice in Ondo State, notable for her legal expertise. Their family comprises four children: Banji, Olumide, Olufemi, and Olubunmi, along with several cherished grandchildren. A devout Catholic, Pius Olu Akinyelure holds the distinguished title of Knight of St. Gregory the Great, an honor bestowed upon him by Pope John Paul II in 2002. Beyond his commitments, he finds joy in music, art, and sports, indulging in activities like golf and tennis, while also relishing classical and jazz melodies.
Net Worth and Awards
Pius Olu Akinyelure stands among Nigeria’s wealthiest and most accomplished entrepreneurs. Forbes magazine estimates his net worth to surpass $500 million. He has been honored with numerous awards and accolades, recognizing his significant achievements and noteworthy contributions to Nigerian society. Notable among these awards are:
- Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), a national honor bestowed on him by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2002.
- Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa), conferred on him by the University of Ibadan in 2003.
- Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa), conferred on him by the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2004.
- Distinguished Alumni Award, presented to him by the University of Ibadan Alumni Association in 2006.
- Lifetime achievement Award, presented to him by the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Awards in 2012.
- Icon of Democracy Award, presented to him by the Nigerian Tribune newspaper in 2019.
Sports Enthusiast and a Golf Lover
Chief Akinyelure, a fervent sports enthusiast, particularly enjoys immersing himself in various sports, with a notable passion for golf. He actively engages in playing and following a wide array of sports, prominently golf. His affiliation extends to membership in numerous esteemed golf clubs within Nigeria and internationally, including Ikoyi Club 1938, Ibadan Golf Club, Port Harcourt Golf Club, Le Meridien Ibom Golf Resort, Abuja Golf Club, Lagos Country Club, Ikeja Golf Club, Abeokuta Golf Club, Ondo Golf Club, Owo Golf Club, Accra Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, and Emirates Golf Club. Chief Akinyelure has showcased his prowess by participating in and securing victories in various golf tournaments and earning multiple trophies, both on local and international fronts.
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