ABOUT CHIEF ODUTOLA

Chief Timothy Adeola Odutola was an important contributor to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, creating a multimillion-dollar conglomerate including three factories, a retail franchise, a cattle ranch, a 5,000-acre plantation, and timber, cocoa & palm produce exporting business before the end of British colonial rule in 1960. Seizing business opportunities as he saw demand, Odutola moved between markets at every opportunity, creating companies servicing a diverse variety of needs. Odutola’s keen, unwavering interest in improving the infrastructure of Nigeria allowed him to enjoy a successful career in business and politics, despite the vastly fluctuating political landscape of Nigeria. From British rule through civil war and subsequent coups and countercoups, Odutola remained a popular leader for his commitment to promoting Nigerian business ventures. He was bestowed the Prime Minister, Ogbeni-Oja of Ijebu-Ode in 1956, and was the founder and first President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Odutola campaigned for manufacturing interests and consulted with government officials about national fiscal policy. As a statesman and as a business leader, Odutola worked tirelessly to improve the infrastructure of his country. He was the first Asiwaju of Ijebu Christians.
He owned many manufacturing businesses and partnerships.  He also ventured into real estate and investment properties.

While it is believed some of Chief Odutola wives were diabolically forced onto him, and the paternity of some of his children has been questioned, Chief Timothy Adeola Odutola has many wives and reported has having 27 children (11 sons, 16 daughters).

Chief Odutola did not die in his sleep as widely reported. He was murdered by those close to him.