Who is Baba Ijebu (Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu)?
Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu that is widely known as “Baba Ijebu,” is a prominent Nigerian industrialist, visionary entrepreneur, and a generous philanthropist.
Who was born with a natural acumen for business, Chief Adebutu has carved out a remarkable legacy in Nigeria’s gaming industry and beyond.
As the founder of Premier Lotto Limited (PLL) which is popularly branded as “Baba Ijebu,” Chief Adebutu revolutionized the gaming industry in Nigeria.
Premier Lotto Limited (PLL) was established in 2001 and the establishment of Premier Lotto Limited quickly became a household name across the country, offering a range of lottery games that captured the public’s imagination.
Under his leadership, the company grew into one of the most successful gaming enterprises in Nigeria, recognized for its credibility and consistency.
However, Chief Adebutu’s contributions extend far beyond the business world. His a man of deep compassion and a strong sense of community, he established the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation.
This foundation reflects his enduring belief that education and health are fundamental pillars of a prosperous society. With a mission to uplift the less privileged,
The foundation provides support to hospital patients and promotes educational initiatives, ensuring that those in need have access to the resources that can transform their lives.
Chief Adebutu’s guiding principle, that “an educated and healthy soul can never be hungry,” encapsulates his philosophy of life.
He understands that empowering individuals through education and healthcare not only alleviates poverty but also fosters a more equitable society.
In essence, Baba Ijebu is more than a successful businessman; he is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in Nigeria.
Through his business ventures and philanthropic efforts, Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu continues to inspire countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s socio-economic landscape.
Baba Ijebu Bio
Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, generally known as Baba Ijebu, is a name that resonates with millions in Nigeria.
His story is one of humble beginnings, relentless ambition, and unwavering commitment to giving back to society.
He was brought to this beautiful world on October 24, 1935, in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria, Chief Adebutu’s life is a testament to the power of education, hard work, and philanthropy.
Baba Ijebu Early Life and Education
Chief Adebutu was born into a modest family of the late Alhaji Karimu Folarin and late Alhaja Seliat Olasimbi.
His educational journey began at Ijero Baptist School, Apapa Road, Ebute-Meta, Lagos, where he laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
In 1951, he was admitted into Baptist Academy in Lagos for his secondary education.
He later completed his studies at the renowned Remo Secondary School (RSS), Sagamu, in 1955.
As a brilliant student, Chief Adebutu topped his class in the School Leaving Certificate Examination, setting the stage for his future success.
The Path to Entrepreneurship
Chief Adebutu’s career began at Classic Chemical Limited, a pharmaceutical company known for products like Andrew’s Liver Salt and Cafenol.
He started working for the company shortly after completing his secondary education and quickly rose through the ranks, from Salesman to Sales Manager.
However, his entrepreneurial spirit could not be contained. In 1963, he left the company to pursue his own business ventures, which made him to make a decision that would eventually lead to the creation of Premier Lotto Limited—popularly known as Baba Ijebu.
The Rise of Premier Lotto Limited
With a keen business acumen and a vision for success, Chief Adebutu partnered with his friend, Chief Solomon Adebayo Ayoku, to establish Premier Lotto Limited.
Premier Lotto Limited started as a modest pooling business has grew into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, transforming the lives of countless Nigerians.
Today, Premier Lotto aka Baba Ijebu is one of the largest and most successful gaming companies in West Africa, providing opportunities and putting food on the tables of many people.
The company is now managed by a team of seasoned professionals with over 40 years of experience in the gaming industry.
Their expertise has ensured the continued growth and success of the business, making Premier Lotto a household name across Nigeria.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
Chief Adebutu’s success in business is matched only by his generosity and commitment to philanthropy.
His love for education, stemming from his own academic achievements, has led to countless contributions to educational institutions across Nigeria.
Through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF), he has supported numerous projects aimed at empowering the less privileged and promoting education.
One of his most notable contributions is the donation of a state-of-the-art library to Crescent University at Abeokuta, in 2009.
He also donated a N50 million e-library to Baptist Academy at Obanikoro in Lagos State, and has made significant contributions to the promotion of culture and heritage across the country.
Chief Adebutu’s charitable deeds extend beyond education. His donations include a multi-million-naira radio station to Olabisi Onabanjo University which is an ultra-modern center at the University of Lagos, and the Alhaja Seliat Adebutu Library at Crescent University.
He has also funded the construction of new school buildings at Remo Methodist High School and Gaskiya College at Badiya in Lagos.
Honors and Recognition
In recognition of his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s economy and his philanthropic efforts, Chief Kessington Adebutu was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Administration by Olabisi Onabanjo University in October 2015.
His generosity and dedication to societal development have also earned him numerous chieftaincy titles, including the “Babalaje of Lagos” and the “Asoju Oba of Lagos.”
Conclusion
Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu aka Baba Ijebu, is more than just a successful businessman; he is a beacon of hope and a pillar of the community.
His journey from a humble background to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected entrepreneurs and philanthropists serves as an inspiration to many.
Through his business ventures and charitable works, Chief Adebutu continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless Nigerians, embodying the values of hard work, education, and generosity.
