The Gambia-based Nigerian lawyer, businessman and politician, Dr Azeez Oladapo Yusuf has over the years proven to be a multifaceted individual with a heart full of passion, humanity, love and a strong devotion to God. Yusuf has made his mark in business, philanthropy and grassroots politics. His numerous achievements and dedication to the uplift of the underprivileged have endeared him to many thus making him a shining example of compassion and success. Despite his accomplishments as a businessman of note with interests spanning countries like Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, Nigeria and the Republic of Gambia —he is a close friend to the first family of that small West African nation— Yusuf has remained his humble self and never detached from his roots.
The gentleman also known as Nino-Agege hails from Lagos Island —Idumota— but had his formative years in Agege and has maintained a deep connection to his roots. He has taken it upon himself to champion the well-being of the underprivileged and support the youth in those grassroots communities, often overlooked by the government. His company, Shaida and Sons International Limited —through his Big Apple Foundation— started the noble tradition of giving back to the society in Gambia; a gesture which earned him numerous accolades and recognitions from the country’s government. But in recent years, Yusuf has turned his gaze at his home country vis-à-vis his local area: Agege.
Recently, the businessman through his ‘Ninalowo Empowerment Foundation’ hosted a program to alleviate the impact of subsidy removal on the people of Agege. He provided palliative support —in form of cash— to small-scale business owners, petty traders and various families. This remarkable philanthropic gesture has earned him immense support and admiration from his numerous followers who daily are nudging him to seek a larger platform in public service.
Yusuf, who recently bagged an honorary doctorate degree in Science from the International Entrepreneurship University, USA, in recognition of his remarkable entrepreneurial achievements, is a respected member of the Nigerian Bar Association as well as member of the prestigious Eko Club and the Grand Patron of the Yoruba Community in the Gambia.