Alaba Lawson: The Iyalode Of Yorubaland
Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson, a renowned Nigerian figure, was born on January 18, 1951, and passed away on October 28, 2023. Her legacy spans the realms of business, entrepreneurship, and academia. Alaba Lawson made history as the first female president of NACCIMA and served as the chairman of the Governing Council at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State.
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Early Life and Education
Born into the Jiboku-Taiwo family in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Alaba Lawson began her educational journey at St. James’ African Primary School, Idi-Ape, Abeokuta, and later attended Abeokuta Girls Grammar School.[1]
Her pursuit of knowledge led her to St. Nicholas Montessori Teachers’ Training College in England, where she achieved a 1st Class Diploma in Education in 1973.
Life’s Journey
Returning to Nigeria, Alaba Lawson embarked on a remarkable teaching career. She started at Children House School in Ibara and subsequently taught at various educational institutions, including Queen’s Gate Montessori Nursery School and Mill Hill Nursery and Junior School.
In 1977, she took a significant step by establishing her own educational institution, Lawson’s Childcare Nursery and Primary School. With only three students at its inception, the school has since evolved into the renowned Lawson Group of Schools.
Notable Achievements
One of the pivotal moments in Alaba Lawson’s life occurred on May 25, 2017, when she achieved a historic milestone. She became the first woman to be elected President of the National Association Of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines And Agriculture (NACCIMA), succeeding Dr. Benny Edem.
Legacy and Net Worth
Her net worth is estimated at approximately $5 million. Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson’s contributions to education and her groundbreaking role in NACCIMA have left an indelible mark. Notably, she founded the Lawson Group of Schools and established “Abestone Microfinance bank” in the early 2000s.
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Chieftaincy Titles
Before her passing, Iyalode Alaba Lawson had been recognized by numerous traditions and received several chieftaincy titles, including:
- The Otun of Oko
- The Asiwaju Iyalode of Egbaland
- The Otun Iyalode of the Egba Christians
- The Iyalode of Egbaland (since deposed)
- The Iyalode of Yorubaland
Family and Marital Life of Alaba Lawson
Alaba Lawson, born as the second surviving child in her family, arrived preceded by a twin. Her parents, Emmanuel Jiboku and Ruth Aina, got married in 1948. According to sources, Emmanuel, her father, was recognized with the prestigious Member of the British Empire award in 1957 for his outstanding contributions.
In 1968, Alaba got married to Kehinde Lawson, the son of Chief Oladeinde Lawson, a figure who had significantly influenced her journey. After years of marriage, Iyalode Alaba Lawson and her ex-husband’s marriage come to an end through divorce, Alaba and Kehinde remained committed to maintaining a cordial relationship.
Their marriage blessed them with six sons, each a testament to the shared moments and experiences of their time together. Among their children, Akinola Lawson stands out, having served as the Special Adviser on Agriculture to the Governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun.
References: LitCaf.com and Wikipedia.org