Salami Agbaje, a popular figure in the Ibadan colonial era, was a self-made man who rose to prominence through his hard work and determination. Born in Lagos in 1880, he received an Islamic education but taught himself to read and write in English through self-study and private tutors. In the late 19th century, he moved to Ibadan and established a vast business empire that was rivalled by only a few.
Salami started as a tailor in Ibadan but encountered difficulties due to the competition from established tailors. In 1901, when the railway from Lagos reached Ibadan and planks were needed for lining the rails, Salami turned to logging and raised capital from the sale of agricultural produce. He purchased cocoa, palm kernel, and other items from farmers in the interior and sold them to European firms for export. Despite the unfavourable business climate post-1920, Salami attempted to export thousands of tons of cocoa during the First World War and achieved great profits.
He diversified into transportation, import, and export and was known for being a pioneer in several industries in Ibadan, including the first private motor garage and the first indigenous-owned diversified company. Salami was a visionary entrepreneur who played a key role in shaping Ibadan’s economy and society in the early 20th century. He was a self-made man who rose to prominence through hard work, determination, and a drive to succeed. He left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence future generations.
Despite his wealth and success, Salami faced opposition from Ibadan chiefs for his refusal to participate in the tradition of sharing wealth and sponsoring feasts and faced charges but was cleared by a commission. He was married to ten wives and had many children, whom he spent heavily on educating. He was also known for his philanthropy and dedication to education. He invested heavily in the education of his children and was dedicated to providing opportunities for others to better themselves through learning and growth. He was a firm believer in the power of education to uplift individuals and communities, and his contributions to education in Ibadan and beyond continue to be remembered and appreciated.
Salami Agbaje was not only a successful businessman but also a symbol of what can be achieved through hard work and a commitment to excellence. Despite facing numerous challenges, he never lost his passion for business and always remained focused on his goals. His legacy will be remembered for generations to come as a testament to the idea that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
The visionary entrepreneur who died in 1953 played a key role in shaping Ibadan’s economy and society in the early 20th century. He was a true pioneer who paved the way for future entrepreneurs in Nigeria, and his legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered to this day. Salami Agbaje’s impact on Ibadan’s growth and development will never be forgotten, and his example remains an inspiration to all those who aspire to succeed in life and business.
