Commendations for Tunde Folawiyo at 64

In the oil and gas industry, Tunde Folawiyo’s name evokes a mixture of admiration, awe and respect. The highly revered businessman and heir to the late billionaire businessman, Iyanda Folawiyo, is head and shoulders above several competitors in the industry. Folawiyo’s recognition transcends Nigerian shores,  earning him respect on the global stage.

His life is a challenge to those born with the silver spoon, who out of sheer indiscipline and lack of focus have abused the privilege. His life is also an inspiration for people from humble backgrounds, teaching them never to entomb their dreams, even in the face of adversity.

As a young man, Folawiyo displayed traits of greatness. He aspired to be one of the greatest businessmen in the world.

Many arguably believe that his paths had been already laced with roses because of his background. But what they do not know is that Folawiyo acquired his enviable reputation and continued his father’s legacy through determination, hard work and discipline.

With his ingenuity, he turned around his late father’s businesses into profitability and prominence and became one of the richest on the African continent.

Folawiyo has remained a strong advocate for the exploration of Nigeria’s lucrative crude oil. To expand the Yinka Folawiyo Group, he founded the Folawiyo Energy Limited in 1989. This singular effort, in 2004, led to the construction of a world-class storage facility, which can contain approximately 30 per cent of the total premium motor spirit of the country.

For a man who has left his footprints on the sands of time, commendations and tributes were poured on him by those who encountered him when he celebrated his 64th birthday last Friday.