“Greatness is not guarding yourself from the people; greatness is being accepted by the people.”
— Mike Tyson
The above aphorism aptly captures the personality and enduring legacy of Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Honorary Consul of the Romanian Government to Edo and Delta States, and Chairman of the Okada Group of Companies.
As he clocks 92, it is appropriate to reflect on a life defined not merely by age, wealth or accomplishments, but by service, philanthropy, institution-building, leadership and an enduring connection with his people.
ON LEGACY AND SERVICE
Sir Winston Churchill, former British Prime Minister, once said:
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
For the Esama, giving is more than a habit; it is a vocation. His life demonstrates that true wealth is measured not only by what one possesses, but by the lives one touches and the opportunities one creates for others.
As the Holy Book reminds us in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Indeed, givers do not give merely because they have the means to do so; they give because generosity is embedded in their character.
Baroness Margaret Thatcher also observed:
“No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions; he had money as well.”
Chief Igbinedion has demonstrated both the heart to care and the means to act. He has repeatedly transformed compassion into tangible institutions, opportunities and interventions that have touched lives across Nigeria and beyond.
ON INDUSTRY AND VISION
Albert Einstein taught that:
“The value of a man resides in what he gives and not in what he is capable of receiving.”
Chief Igbinedion’s life is a reflection of this principle.
From humble beginnings, he rose to build the Okada Group of Companies, with interests spanning sectors including aviation, banking, media, hospitality and education.
One of his most enduring contributions is the establishment of Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria’s first private university.
The significance of that achievement goes beyond the establishment of an institution. It represents a belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of creating opportunities for young Nigerians.
Nelson Mandela famously said:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Through Igbinedion University, countless young Nigerians have received education, developed their potential and gained opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
That is the essence of institution-building: creating something that continues to impact lives long after the founder has left the immediate scene.
ON TRADITION AND LEADERSHIP
As the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Igbinedion occupies a distinguished place within the traditional institution of the Benin Kingdom.
His title, Esama, is traditionally associated with “the one who sees what the Oba does not see.”
Leadership, therefore, has been a recurring theme throughout his life.
John C. Maxwell said:
“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”
For decades, the Esama has demonstrated leadership in business, philanthropy, diplomacy, education and community development, while maintaining a deep connection to Benin culture and tradition.
His journey also reflects the wisdom contained in Chinua Achebe’s famous saying:
“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.”
Despite his international exposure and remarkable achievements, Chief Igbinedion has remained deeply conscious of his roots.
ON DIPLOMACY AND IMPACT
As the Honorary Consul of Romania to Edo and Delta States, Chief Igbinedion has also played a role in fostering international relations and strengthening connections between Nigeria and Romania.
His diplomatic engagement adds another dimension to a life already marked by business, education, philanthropy and traditional leadership.
Kofi Annan once said:
“Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.”
The institutions and opportunities associated with Chief Igbinedion’s name have, in various ways, opened doors for individuals and families and contributed to the advancement of society.
THE ENIGMA
What makes Chief Igbinedion an enigma is the unusual combination of achievement, accessibility, tradition and philanthropy that has characterised his public life.
You can be a billionaire and remain accessible.
You can command an extensive business empire and still identify with ordinary people.
You can become an internationally recognised businessman and diplomat while remaining deeply rooted in Benin tradition.
This rare combination is perhaps one of the reasons his name has endured across generations.
Maya Angelou famously said:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
For many Nigerians, the legacy of the Esama is not only about what he built or accumulated, but also about the opportunities he created, the people he supported and the hope he inspired.
At 92, Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion stands as a testament to the possibility of turning personal success into a broader legacy of service and impact.
Today, we celebrate not merely 92 years of life, but 92 years of experiences, relationships, achievements and influence.
We celebrate not just age, but impact.
We celebrate not just wealth, but legacy.
We celebrate not just the man, but the institutions, people and communities that have been touched by his remarkable journey.
Happy 92nd Birthday, Sir.
May your health remain sound, your wisdom continue to abound, and may your name remain etched in gold in the annals of Benin Kingdom and Nigeria.
Congratulations, Your Highness, Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, on attaining 92 remarkable years.
