CS Oparanya mourns death of Cooperatives movement icon Tajudeen Ayeola
By Cy Muganda, December 26, 2025Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Wycliffe Oparanya has paid tribute to High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola, describing him as a towering figure whose influence on the cooperatives movement in Africa and beyond will be felt for generations.
In a statement issued on his official X account on Friday, December 26, 2025, Oparanya said he had received news of Ayeola’s passing with deep sadness, noting that Africa had lost one of its most respected cooperative leaders.
“It is with deep sadness that I note the passing of High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola (Àrobayo of Epe Land),” Oparanya stated.
Distinguished career
According to the CS, High Chief Ayeola held several prestigious positions within the global cooperative movement, demonstrating his significant influence beyond Nigeria and Africa.
His roles included serving as President of the International Cooperative Alliance Africa region, Vice President of ICA Global, and President of the Cooperative Federation of Nigeria.
“High Chief Ayeola was a towering figure in the cooperative movement across Africa and the world. His visionary leadership strengthened cooperative institutions, empowered communities, and promoted sustainable development across the continent,” he said.
Legacy of leadership
The Cabinet Secretary praised High Chief Ayeola’s visionary leadership in strengthening cooperative institutions across Africa.
“His visionary leadership strengthened cooperative institutions, empowered communities, and promoted sustainable development across the continent,” Oparanya said.
The CS highlighted the late leader’s role as both a mentor and advocate for purpose-driven governance in the cooperative sector.
“He was not only a mentor to many, including myself, but also a true champion of people-centred, purpose-driven leadership,” he stated.
Oparanya emphasised that High Chief Ayeola’s death represents a significant loss for Africa’s cooperative movement.
“Africa’s cooperative sector has lost an iconic leader whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of leaders and communities. “May his soul rest in peace. Amen!” the Cabinet Secretary said.