“This Is a Worthy Legacy” – GTBank co-founder Fola Adeola commends Abiru, Wife during visit to SAIL

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The co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank, Mr. Fola Adeola, has commended Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, for investing in the future of young Nigerians through the SAIL Empowerment Foundation, describing the initiative as a “worthy legacy” built on service, selflessness and a commitment to humanity.

Adeola gave the commendation on Wednesday during a visit to the SAIL Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, where he inspected the facility and interacted with young beneficiaries of its various programmes.

Describing his visit as worthwhile, the renowned banker and philanthropist said the decision by the Abirus to commit their resources to empowering people outside their immediate family demonstrated a rare understanding of what it means to leave a lasting legacy.

“Whenever we decide to commit to causes bigger than ourselves, we are building a legacy. What you are doing is for children whose parents you may not even know. For society to survive, we must care for others, particularly the less privileged,” Adeola said.

He noted that the resources invested in such an initiative could easily have been devoted to personal comfort and luxury, but the Abirus had chosen to prioritise service to humanity.

“The money used for this great cause could have been used to service a luxurious lifestyle, but you chose service and humanity above self. This is a useful endeavour,” he said.

Adeola urged beneficiaries at the SAIL Innovation Lab to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the facility, stressing that the beneficiaries were fortunate to have such an initiative in their community.

“Neighbours and those living around here are indeed fortunate. I hope they will maximise the great opportunities here,” he added.

Drawing parallels between SAIL and his own philanthropic journey, Adeola recalled the establishment of the FATE Foundation in 2000, an initiative he founded to support aspiring entrepreneurs and promote enterprise development.

He described philanthropy as a noble ecosystem that may not always attract the glamour associated with conventional endeavours, but whose impact remains enduring.

“It is a world of charity, a completely noble cause. It is a completely different ecosystem that is not ‘sexy’. Beneficiaries will always remember the pathway,” he said.

Adeola expressed delight at witnessing the work being done at SAIL, saying the experience had left a strong impression on him. “I am glad I came here. I should have come here with my son and wife to witness this remarkable feat. May your kindness count for you,” he said.

Addressing participants at the innovation lab, Adeola also shared his personal story of rising from humble beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria’s foremost bankers, entrepreneurs and national icons.

He recalled that his mother placed a tray on his head as a nine-year-old boy to hawk goods on the streets, an experience that shaped his understanding of resilience, perseverance and the power of determination. He urged the young beneficiaries not to surrender to the adversities they may encounter in life, encouraging them instead to discover their talents and develop their gifts.

According to him, successful people do not possess two heads; rather, they distinguish themselves through discipline, determination and the willingness to make the most of their opportunities.

In his remarks, Senator Abiru described Adeola as his boss, mentor and a major influence on his professional and public-service journey.

Abiru recalled that he began his banking career at Guaranty Trust Bank under Adeola’s tutelage, spending 10 years in the institution and learning valuable lessons that have continued to shape his approach to leadership and service.

“This inspiration you see here today was learnt from him. He is my pillar of inspiration, my mentor and guardian, even in public service,” Abiru said.