Notable female Nigerian entrepreneur, educationist, and Iyalode of Egbaland and Yorubaland, Alaba Lawson has passed on at the age of 72.
The Media Adviser to the deceased, Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, in a statement on behalf of the family, announced her peaceful demise on Saturday, October 28, 2023.
Born on January 18, 1951, in Abeokuta, Alaba Lawson had an impressive educational background. She attended St. James’s African Primary School and later Abeokuta Girls’ Grammar School, where she obtained the West African School Certificate.
She furthered her studies at St. Nicholas Montessori Teachers’ Training College in England, where she achieved a 1st Class Diploma in Education with distinction, becoming the first African student to receive such a rating at the institution.
In 1977, Lawson established the Lawson Group of Schools, which includes a crèche, pre-nursery, nursery, primary, junior school, and college.
She held various leadership roles, including being the past President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines Agriculture (NACCIMA), the first female President of the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI), and the past Chairman of the Board of Governing Council of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State (MAPOLY).
Iyalode Lawson was known for her philanthropy, providing scholarships to less privileged pupils and students. She also supported traders in uplifting their businesses and fought against violence against women.
Meanwhile, Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has paid tribute to the late Iyalode of Egbaland and Yorubaland, Chief Mrs Alaba Lawson MFR, describing her as a woman who lived a worthwhile life and had a very generous personality.
In a press release by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo highlighted the significant contributions made by the late educationist and industrialist to the development of Nigeria.
Recognizing her immense impact on the economic growth of Nigeria and community development, Obasanjo, during his presidency in 2004, honored Iyalode Lawson with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
The late educationist and industrialist was the founder of the well-known Alaba Lawson Group of Schools, where she provided scholarships to indigent pupils.
Iyalode Alaba Lawson was installed as the Iyalode of Egbaland in August 1999 and in August 2008, she ascended to the position of Iyalode Yorubaland.
The passing of Iyalode Alaba Lawson is a significant loss to Nigeria, as she leaves behind a legacy of philanthropy, hard work, and dedication to education. Her contributions will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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