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By his industry, lofty politics and compassion, former Defence Chief Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma commands uncommon adulation. He is simply matchless in depth and humanity. It is rare to come across a retired military General who remains in the limelight over four decades after he has quit active service. And his influence is totally unconnected to any military activity. Even, his story from barracks to the boardroom is one that will be a blockbuster if made into a reel. Thus to his loved ones, Danjuma is a rare gem. Thus as the foremost statesman, clocked 87 on Monday, December 9, there was a small but lavish party at his mansion in Banana Island, Lagos to celebrate an icon whose positive influence on people’s lives is immeasurable. It was also used as a thanksgiving ceremony for a highly rewarding lifetime and to appreciate God for keeping him alive, hale and hearty.
There was quite a handful of high net worth dignitaries —including Vice President Kashim Shettima; Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed and Taraba Governor Agbus Kefas— who joined him at the birthday soiree with his wife, Daisy Danjuma, playing the perfect hostess. During the party, VP Shettima eulogized the celebrant for his extraordinary contributions to Nigeria. “Our celebrant today is not merely a character in our history books; he is history itself. He has lived a life that transcends the ordinary —a life defined by bravery in the face of adversity, integrity in public service, and selflessness in philanthropy,” Shettima said.
In his early life, the Taraba-born Danjuma had an illustrious 19-year career in the Nigerian Army. During this time he rose to the rank of Lieutenant General and served as Chief of Army Staff before he retired in 1979 at age 40. He then focused on his business career, which has seen him become a distinguished and highly successful businessman with over 40 years’ experience —to the extent of making Forbes’ wealthiest list. He founded many great companies including the NAL-Comet Group —one of the most successful indigenous shipping agencies and terminal operators in Nigeria— and South Atlantic Petroleum Limited, SAPETRO —an oil exploration and production company. He also sits on the board of several publicly quoted and privately owned companies in Nigeria —spanning all kinds of global sectors. Danjuma is also big in the international real estate circuit with a portfolio of residential and commercial properties in the UK, USA and Spain.
In 2008, Danjuma set up TY Danjuma Foundation —a private, independent grant-making philanthropic organisation based in Abuja, Nigeria— to aid less-fortunate citizens in Nigeria. The celebrant is a recipient of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) national honour, which is the highest award given in Nigeria to a non-Head of State.
