President Tinubu Pays Tribute to US-Based Philanthropist Ben Oluwole-Johnson
President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences to the family of Ben Oluwole-Johnson, the US-based business executive and philanthropist who recently passed away at the age of 72 in Crete, Illinois.
Oluwole-Johnson, a former governorship aspirant in Ondo State, died in September, and his burial rites are set to begin on Friday, with the final ceremony scheduled for October 5.
In a heartfelt tribute, president Tinubu described Oluwole-Johnson as a man of exceptional intelligence and vision, praising his commitment to the development of Nigeria.
President Tinubu also highlighted Oluwole-Johnson’s remarkable philanthropy, particularly his contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare sector and noted that Oluwole-Johnson was instrumental in securing and donating over $42 million worth of hospital equipment, primarily benefiting Lagos State. Notably, he did all this without seeking compensation for his efforts.
Reflecting on Oluwole-Johnson’s political aspirations, Tinubu acknowledged his friend’s courage in running for governor of Ondo State, an endeavor that garnered strong support from the Nigerian community in Chicago. Despite not winning, Oluwole-Johnson’s audacity earned him admiration, and Tinubu fondly referred to his wife, Moji, as “First Lady.” In closing, the President remarked on the profound impact Oluwole-Johnson had on Nigeria and expressed his condolences to the family, saying, “We will sorely miss Mr. Ben, but we take solace in the great family he leaves behind. May he rest in perfect peace.”
