Biography of Folorunsho Alakija

Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, a prominent Nigerian businesswoman, author, speaker, and philanthropist, was born on July 15, 1951.

She hails from a large and culturally rich family, as her father had eight wives and a total of 52 children, with Folorunsho’s mother being the first wife. Her upbringing in such a diverse family likely played a significant role in shaping her worldview and determination.

At the tender age of seven, Folorunsho Alakija embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom to pursue her education. After her initial studies, she returned to Nigeria and attended Muslim High School in Sagamu, where she likely honed her academic skills and developed a strong foundation for her future endeavors.

Following this, she returned to the United Kingdom for secretarial studies at Pitman’s Central College, London, where she furthered her education and gained valuable skills.

Folorunsho Alakija’s career took diverse paths before she found her true calling. Initially, she worked in business administration and the banking sector, gaining valuable experience and expertise.

However, her heart led her towards the creative world of fashion, prompting her to establish the “Rose of Sharon House of Fashion,” which soon became a household name in Nigeria. This marked the beginning of her remarkable journey in the fashion industry.

Her influence in the fashion world extended to her role as a two-time National President and later a lifelong Trustee of the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN), where she contributed significantly to the development of the Nigerian fashion industry.

Beyond the fashion realm, Mrs. Alakija is actively involved in various business ventures. She holds the position of Vice Chairman at FAMFA Oil Limited, her family’s oil exploration and production business. In this role, she oversees strategic planning and daily administration, showcasing her business acumen.

Additionally, she is associated with Dayspring Property Development Company Limited, a real estate company with global investments. She also plays a pivotal role as the Group Managing Director of Digital reality Print Ltd, a world-class printing company under the Rose of Sharon Group.

Her philanthropic efforts are truly inspiring. Through her Rose of Sharon Foundation, Mrs. Alakija empowers widows, their children, and orphans, making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Moreover, in alignment with her faith and sense of purpose, she and her husband founded a house fellowship that has grown into the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International, a thriving Christian ministry.

Folorunsho Alakija’s life journey is a testament to her resilience, determination, and commitment to making a difference in the world. Her success in the business world, dedication to the fashion industry, and unwavering philanthropic endeavors have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond, making her a respected figure in both the business and charitable sectors.