Tag: Okoya

  • Okoya to mark 86th birthday with medical outreach

    Okoya to mark 86th birthday with medical outreach

    Residents of Ajah and surrounding communities are set to benefit from a one-week free medical outreach planned in commemoration of the 86th birthday of foremost Nigerian industrialist, philanthropist, and Chairman of the Eleganza Group of Companies, Chief (Dr.) Razaq Akanni Okoya, CON.

    The initiative, tagged: Okoya @ 86 Medical Outreach, will be part of the business mogul’s long-standing commitment to community development, healthcare delivery, and humanitarian service. The outreach will run from Monday, January 5 to Monday, January 12, 2026, between 9:00am and 4:00pm daily, at Oluwaninsola Estate, opposite Eleganza Bus Stop, along the Lekki–Ajah Expressway, Lagos.

    Speaking on the initiative, Okoya, the man behind the renowned Eleganza products, described the outreach as his personal way of giving back to the host communities of his businesses and residence, while emphasising the importance of accessible and quality healthcare.

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    “This is a step towards our enduring commitment to health, dignity, and well-being, in appreciation of the community where I reside. Most importantly, health is wealth. This is my token of appreciation to Almighty Allah for preserving my life to see another year. I will be 86 years old in January 2026, which is a milestone, and I am healthy and happy,” he said.

    He added that his philosophy remains anchored on the belief that a healthy society is the foundation of sustainable development.

    “I so strongly believe that good health is essential to life. I have been in the manufacturing industry for over six decades, providing employment opportunities for teeming young Nigerians, while Eleganza products continue to enjoy wide patronage. By providing access to healthcare, we are improving productivity and prioritising societal sustainability. Everybody deserves the opportunity to thrive and live a healthy life,” Okoya stated.

    The outreach is expected to benefit over 1,000 residents and will offer a comprehensive range of medical services. These include general medical consultations, blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar checks, HIV testing, eye screening with provision of corrective glasses where required, dental checks, breast and prostate cancer screening, wellness guidance, health education, and medical referrals.

    Beneficiaries will also receive free medications and gain valuable insight into their overall health status.

    Beyond healthcare, Okoya’s philanthropic footprint spans religion, education, and social welfare. Many years ago, he built a mosque in honour of his late mother, which has since become a major centre of worship for the local community, attracting up to 500 Muslim faithful weekly for Jumu’ah prayers, with bread regularly provided to worshippers as part of his charitable commitment.

    Eleganza Group of Companies remains one of the largest employers of labour in Nigeria, providing jobs for thousands of Nigerians across its manufacturing and commercial operations. Okoya also believes in quality education and the foundation under his name in recent years has thrown its weight behind the Nigerian educational sector as several undergraduate students are beneficiaries of the Alhaji Akanni Okoya Scholarship Awards.

    Over the years, Okoya has also supported hospitals and medical institutions across the country with donations of life-saving equipment, reinforcing his belief that service to humanity is a divine responsibility.

    Born on January 12, 1940, Alhaji Razaq Akanni Okoya, CON, the Aare of Lagos, is the founder of Eleganza Group of Companies and RAO Investment Properties, with business interests spread across Nigeria and parts of West Africa. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected industrial magnates is widely regarded as a testament to vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to national development.

  • President, Sanwo-Olu, others celebrate Eleganza boss Okoya at 85

    President, Sanwo-Olu, others celebrate Eleganza boss Okoya at 85

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have felicitated renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, on yesterday’s celebration of his 85th birthday anniversary.

    In a statement in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu showered encomiums on the Chairman of Eleganza Group for his exemplary contributions to Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape and his enduring legacy of hard work and success. “For over six decades, your endeavours and achievements have not only inspired countless businesses to succeed but also significantly contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

    “The companies and industries you established have created jobs for thousands of Nigerians,” the President said.

    President Tinubu lauded Chief Okoya’s commitment to education and spirituality, highlighting his transformative generosity through scholarships.

    Read Also: EFCC summons Okoya’s sons over ‘abuse of naira’ in viral video

    “Your life-long civic engagement has been centred on promoting the education and spiritual life of Nigerians. Your generosity in offering scholarships has transformed the lives of many individuals,” he said.

    The President expressed confidence that Chief Okoya’s remarkable life and achievements would continue to inspire a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs to emulate his pioneering spirit and unwavering determination.

    Sanwo-Olu praised Chief Okoya for his immense contributions to society, particularly in Lagos State.

    The governor described the celebrant as an inspiration to many and a beacon of hope for the less privileged.

    In a tweet on his X account, Sanwo-Olu wrote: “His significant contributions to the economy and the livelihoods of many Nigerians, especially in Lagos State, where his companies thrive, have impacted our community and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams.”

    The governor also highlighted Chief Okoya’s philanthropic efforts, emphasising his support for young people and small businesses.

    “Chief Okoya’s generosity and philanthropic efforts, which have provided hope to the less privileged, are a testament to his commitment to uplifting others,” he said

    Sanwo-Olu extended his best wishes to the philanthropist, offering prayers for his continued health and strength.

    “I wish him the very best on his special day and pray for his continued health and strength so that he can enjoy the fruits of his labour,” the governor added.

  • Tinubu celebrates Chief Okoya at 85 

    Tinubu celebrates Chief Okoya at 85 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, the renowned industrialist and philanthropist, as he marks his 85th birthday anniversary. 

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu lauded the Chairman of Eleganza Group for his exemplary contributions to Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape and his enduring legacy of hard work and success. 

    “For over six decades, your endeavours and achievements have not only inspired countless businesses to succeed but have also significantly contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy. 

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    “The companies and industries you have established have created jobs for thousands of Nigerians,” the President noted. 

    President Tinubu also praised Chief Okoya’s commitment to education and spirituality, highlighting his transformative generosity through scholarships. 

    “Your lifelong civic engagement has centred on promoting the education and spiritual life of Nigerians. Your generosity in offering scholarships has transformed the lives of many individuals,” he remarked. 

    The President expressed hope that Chief Okoya’s remarkable life and achievements will continue to inspire a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs to emulate his pioneering spirit and unwavering determination.

  • Sanwo-Olu hails Okoya’s legacy at 85

    Sanwo-Olu hails Okoya’s legacy at 85

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has praised the industrialist and Chairman of the Eleganza Group, Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, for his immense contributions to society, particularly in Lagos State.

    The governor celebrated Chief Okoya’s 85th birthday, describing him as an inspiration to many and a beacon of hope for the less privileged. 

    In a tweet on his X account, Sanwo-Olu wrote: “His significant contributions to the economy and the livelihoods of many Nigerians, especially in Lagos State, where his companies thrive, have impacted our community and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams,” 

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    The governor also highlighted Chief Okoya’s philanthropic efforts, emphasizing his support for young people and small businesses. 

    “Chief Okoya’s generosity and philanthropic efforts, which have provided hope to the less privileged, are a testament to his commitment to uplifting others,”

    Sanwo-Olu extended his best wishes to the philanthropist, offering prayers for his continued health and strength. 

    “I wish him the very best on his special day and pray for his continued health and strength so that he can enjoy the fruits of his labour.” 

  • Naira abuse: EFCC confirms invitation of Okoya’s sons for questioning 

    Naira abuse: EFCC confirms invitation of Okoya’s sons for questioning 

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited two children of billionaire businessman, Chief Razaq Okoya, for questioning over alleged naira abuse.

    The EFCC Spokesperson, Mr Dele Oyewale confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

    “Yes, they have been invited; the two children, Wahab and Raheem Okoya are expected to report to the commission’s Lagos office for questioning on Monday.

    ”They are to report to the Head, Special Operations Team, at the 15A Awolowo Road Office of the commission by 10 am on Monday,”  he said

    Read Also: BREAKING: EFCC invites Okoya’s sons over alleged Naira abuse

    NAN reports that the two brothers were sighted  in a video flaunting and spraying bundles of N1,000 notes in a promotional clip for Raheem’s new song titled “Credit Alert”.

    In the video, the duo, dressed in white traditional attires, danced while a mobile policeman held stacks of crisp naira notes, which they flung into the air.

    The act, perceived by many as disregard for the law, drew condemnation on social media, with some Nigerians expressing doubts about accountability due to their father’s influential status.(NAN)

  • BREAKING: EFCC invites Okoya’s sons over alleged Naira abuse

    BREAKING: EFCC invites Okoya’s sons over alleged Naira abuse

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned Subomi and Wahab, sons of billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya, for questioning over alleged naira abuse. 

    In a notice by Michael Wetkas, Acting Director of the Lagos Directorate of the EFCC, the agency instructed the duo to appear before the head of the Special Operations Team at its office located at 15A Awolowo Road, Lagos, by 10 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025.

    Details shortly…

  • Police under fire over Okoya’s sons alleged naira abuse

    Police under fire over Okoya’s sons alleged naira abuse

    The Nigeria Police Force has faced widespread criticism for detaining an officer who appeared in a viral video with billionaire businessman Razaq Okoya’s sons.

    The video showed the officer helping Okoya’s sons carry bundles of cash as one of them promoted his new song “Credit Alert”.

    The police statement, condemning the officer’s actions and announcing disciplinary action, has sparked outrage on social media.

    Many are questioning why the Okoya brothers are not facing the same treatment for allegedly abusing the naira.

    Cross dresser Bobrisky was penalised and charged for Naira mutilation in 2024.

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    The controversy started when Bobrisky was arrested for allegedly defacing Naira notes, following an investigation by the EFCC.

    The charges stemmed from social media videos that appeared to show Bobrisky throwing money in the air at a film premiere.

    Netizens have taken to social media platforms to express discontent with the police handling of the Okoyas. 

    One Ye_am_chichi wrote: “Why not arrest the ones that gave the officer the money?”

    One Olamide_15 stated: “They should release the póor man and take legal actions against Naira abuse.”

    One Ego Umez wondered: “And the billionaire sons you claim abusing Naira? What will happen? Meanwhile, I can’t see any abuse of the Naira here “

    One Morsh101 asked: “Nah the policeman abuse the Naira?? What will happen to the culprit that abused the so-called Naira?”

    One Pattie2 wrote: “How about the boy who committed the crime?”

    Sean Awofodu-Johnson stated: “The son of a rich man abuse money , you are disciplining the police officer assigned to the boy for doing the job he’s assigned to do. Hmmm that’s a cowardly move, why not arrest okoya’s son for abuse of money abi he’s above the law because e get money ? Money stops nonsense in Nigeria , please try have MONEY o. Ire o”.

  • Teach youths how to make money, says Okoya

    Teach youths how to make money, says Okoya

    The chairman of the Eleganza Group of Companies, Chief Rasaq Okoya, has emphasised the need to educate the youths on wealth creation as a strategy to lower crime rates in the country.

    The industrialist, known for advocating the industrialization of Nigeria’s economy, made these remarks during the annual Eid-El-Fitri prayers held at his residence in Oluwanisola Estate, Eleganza, Ajah.

    Chief Okoya also distributed cartons of Indomie to the Muslim faithful who came to the praying ground to observe their prayers.

    Speaking to the Press after prayers, he said: “All we can do for our leaders is to patiently pray for them. As an industrialist who has been in the industry for over 60 years, my only prayer is for the whole country to be industrialized so that the youths can get something to do and be engaged.

    “We have to teach the youths how to make money. We have to teach them that quick money is not the answer, they have to be patient and honest also because that’s the only way they can stand.

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    “Teach them how to start, we started gradually, I did and everything has been going on steadily for me. If everybody gets something done, all these terrorism and robbery will not arise, and crime will be less.

    “I pray our leaders understand and God will teach them the right thing to do.”

    On the issue of electricity and its effect on his business as an industrialist, Okoya said: “I have forty hectares of factory, for five years, I have not used light, I have been using diesel. I hope within the next few months by the grace of God I will get light.

    Okoya further urged the citizens to be patient with our leaders. He prayed for God’s blessings over all Muslims.

    lmam Marufudeen Akintola, who led the prayers encouraged the Muslim faithful to remain pious and kind even after the month of Ramadan.

    “I advise all Muslims to continue as they were during the month of Ramadan. Most of them were kind, loving, and even giving. I advise them to continue and may the Almighty Allah provide for them and guide them.

    “Most of us have acquired the knowledge of piety during the month of Ramadan, I advise us to remain pious and kind”, he said.

    Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya expressed his gratitude for a successful Ramadan period.

    In his message to the Muslim faithful, he said: “I hope that we will continue to be loyal and honest to each other in whatever we are doing. We should not relent.”

  • When Okoya stepped out with wife

    When Okoya stepped out with wife

    Chief Razak Akanni Okoya is undoubtedly one of the famous Nigerian industrialists, who have been around for over four decades.

    The chairman and founder of Eleganza Group is also without doubt a billionaire, whose influence on the Nigerian social scene is ubiquitous.

    That the 83-year-old patriarch of Okoya dynasty is fashionable is another reason he has remained a recurrent figure on the social scene.

    If you are close to Alhaji, as he’s fondly referred to, you will readily know that he doesn’t do anything in half measures. And when you have his ears, he will do everything and anything to support you when or if the need arises. Hence, it was no surprise to his friends and associates when he stepped out in the company of his lovely wife, Dr. Sade Okoya to unwind.

    , laugh and relax in the company of his friends and associates.

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    The occasion was Laffmattazz Lagos Again, a comedy and music show created by 55-year-old comedian, actor and master of ceremony, Gbenga Adeyinka D 1st. The event was held at the Balmoral event centre on Victoria Island and had the trappings of several dignitaries including Chief Okoya and his beautiful wife, Dr. Sade.

    The two couldn’t help laughing and cheering budding singers and comedians on all through their stay at the event.

    Chief Okoya and Dr. Sade went a step further to show support for Adeyinka’s brand as the Eleganza group donated several products to be given away as prizes for attendees of the event.

    An elated Adeyinka couldn’t help but sing praises of the billionaire industrialists and his illustrious wife for supporting him and always opening up their home for him at all times.

  • We need industrial hubs in 36 states, says Okoya

    We need industrial hubs in 36 states, says Okoya

    Foremost Industrialist and Chairman of Eleganza Group of Companies, Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, yesterday reiterated his call for the creation of new industrial zones in 36 states where small scale industries can spring up.

    Okoya, Aare of Lagos, suggested that the small scale industries should have residential accommodation for workers, adding that the strategy will stem rural-urban migration and reduce congestion in cities.

    He said: “The picture on my mind places all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as industrial hubs, varying in specialty where average Nigerian citizen should be able to live, work, shop, have access to healthcare and other conveniences like recreational, worship facilities, all without leaving their state of origin, within their industrial hubs.”

    Read Also: We need industrial hubs in 36 states, says Okoya

    Okoya spoke with reporters at the Lagos International Trade Fair at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan.

    He called establishment of “industrial training schools” to offer skills in carpentry, bricklaying, sewing, mechanical work, wood work, pharmaceuticals, and electrical works.

    Eleganza Industrial City Limited, Nigeria’s foremost indigenous company and leader in the manufacturing sub-sector, with its highly sought-after products, was a cynosure of eyes at the fair.