Ex-First Bank Boss, Bisi Onasanya, Celebrates at 63

Imagine you are writing the biography of an enigma in the mould of  Bisi Onasanya, former Group Managing Director/ CEO, of First Bank of Nigeria. Also, imagine you are producing the biopic of this intellectual who is the Chairman of  The Address Homes.

 Certainly, it will require a lot of effort to produce a compelling work on him because only the deep can call to the deep to paraphrase the words of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

If you are in doubt, take a cursory look at the man who qualified as a Chartered Accountant at 22! Interestingly, this marked the evidence that he would make a name for himself in the banking industry.

Last Sunday, August 18, the banking guru turned 63. Expectedly, his admirers celebrated the man who is known as Mr. Integrity.

Reputed for his humility and quietude, Onasanya had hoped to mark the occasion without much fanfare but as a figure with a towering presence in finance, banking and real estate sectors, it was inevitable that those whose lives he has touched would seize the opportunity to celebrate him. His friends penned beautiful tributes for the man, who is also fondly called the Father of the modern first bank. Mike Dada, a lawyer and techpreneur, the Executive Producer of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, was one of the people who celebrated Onasanya.

He wrote, “Happy birthday to an exceptional leader and Patron of Music and Arts for youth development. On this special day, we celebrate his tireless dedication to promoting African music and culture through his AFRIMA Patron role. His passion and commitment to empowering artists and showcasing the continent’s rich talent have made a lasting impact. May this new year bring him joy, fulfilment, and continued success.”

The birthday gathering, though informal, was a testament to the deep respect and admiration he commands. Colleagues from his illustrious banking career, where he served as the GMD of First Bank from 2009 to 2015 impactful and illustrious service, joined forces with business partners, and families to felicitate with a man many regard as a beacon of integrity, selflessness, kindness and professionalism.

The dignitaries who attended the event included Akin Fanimokan, a non-executive Director and former Chief Operating Officer of First Bank; Otunba Yemi Lawal, real estate guru and the Chairman of Seagul Properties; former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun and her husband, Niyi Adeosun; and Mr Dayo Adeola, Managing Director, Touchdown travels, Onasanya’s childhood friend.

Others are Mrs Oladunjoye, National Commissioner, National Population Commission; and Steve Ayorinde, a former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State.

Funke Onasanya, his wife of four decades, children and grandchildren, were on the ground to take care of everyone.