Babatunde Bayo-Lawal Bags Royal Africa Leadership Award

Babatunde Bayo-Lawal, Co-founder Dukiya Investments on Saturday, was recognised as one of 100 most exceptional young Africans for 2024, by the Royal African Young leadership Forum (RAYLF).

The Forum which is an initiative of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, recognise young Africans who have distinguished themselves in their personal and professional live. Established in 2020, the forum has recognised over 400 young Africans and aims to empower more young African leaders who are making significant contributions across the continent.

Some of the other Awardees at this year’s edition include Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Bio-Ibrahim; Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Charles Odii, Director General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun among others.

Bayo-Lawal described the award as a profound honour, which serves as an important milestone for his previous effort and a motivation for the future. He also expressed his gratitude to His Royal Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba, Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for finding him worthy of the recognition, alongside some of the continent’s brightest minds.

“I am humbled to be recognised as one of 100 most exceptional young Africans for 2024 by the Royal African Young leadership Forum, an initiative of His Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The award is an important milestone that is not only an acknowledgement of my modest effort but a motivation to rededicate myself to the work of building a stronger future.

“As a young African Entrepreneur, I have never been in doubt about the enormous work we have ahead of us, to change the narrative of our continent from that of poverty to prosperity. And I believe that this work of change, lies with our young people, who are our greatest asset and future champion.

“Through this recognition, I am encouraged to continue to put in my effort, as an entrepreneur in real estate, to create wealth and expand opportunities for our people. I am therefore grateful to His Majesty, for this important recognition, which could not have come at a better time. “

Bayo-Lawal expressed his commitment to continue to collaborate with other young Africans across the continent, to change the current story and advance the continent’s fortune, through entrepreneurial effort.