The Entrepreneur
“The trail blazer, serial entrepreneur and business visionary with a penchant for succeeding in uncharted territories.”
Life In The Corporate World
Apostle Folorunso Alakija’s illustrious career can be traced back to very humble beginnings, starting at Sijuade Enterprises in the prestigious Western House on Broad Street, Lagos, shortly after completing a Secretarial Course at Pitman’s Central College, London. From there, she fearlessly charted her path, delving into the banking sector at the esteemed First National Bank of Chicago, where she graced the role of Executive Secretary to the Managing Director. Through sheer hard work, unwavering determination, and relentless pursuit of excellence, she ascended to the illustrious position of Head of the Corporate Affairs Department at the International Merchant Bank of Nigeria.
A force to be reckoned with, her trailblazing career in the banking corridors spanned a remarkable 12 years. Apostle Folorunso Alakija, a true epitome of resilience and success, boldly etches her name in the annals of corporate history.
Success In The Fashion World
Shortly after her career in the corporate world, Apostle Alakija took up a new and exciting challenge driven by her passion and creative spirit: studying fashion design at the American College in London and the Central School of Fashion.
Her return to Nigeria heralded the birth of her first fashion label, 'Supreme Stitches,' which swiftly rose to prominence in the 80s as a fearless force setting the pace with the trendiest fashion pieces. Evolving into the iconic "Rose of Sharon House of Fashion," this powerhouse brand ingrained itself into the very fabric of Nigerian fashion.
As the National President and lifelong Trustee of the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN), she left an indelible mark, passionately promoting Nigerian culture through the medium of fashion and style.
Creating a lasting legacy in the Oil and Gas Industry
As a proudly indigenous company, Famfa Oil boldly staked its claim in the oil & gas industry with an audacious application for an exploration and production license back in 1991. Five years later, in a triumphant partnership with Texaco Nigeria Ltd (now Chevron Nigeria Ltd), the company commenced its operations in 1996, sparking a new era of prosperity.
At the heart of this incredible success story stands a true family legacy, led by the visionary Chairman, Mr. Modupe Alakija, with Apostle Folorunso Alakija serving as the Vice Chairman, and their four talented sons proudly serving as Executive Directors.
Together, they have forged a path of unwavering determination, making a lasting impact in the oil and gas industry, while at the core, nurturing the bonds of family. Famfa Oil's journey is a testament to the tenacity and resilience of indigenous companies in Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of prosperity and inspiring generations to come.
Digitalreality Print Limited
Apostle Folorunso Alakija's enterprising spirit and creative drive gave birth to the Rose of Sharon Prints and Promotions factory, launching in September 2006 as a large format printing powerhouse. Initially focused on producing stylish, high-quality shirts for golf, leisure, and promotions, the factory has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it stands tall as Digitalreality Print Limited, one of the nation's leading commercial printing giants.
Digitalreality empowers businesses with cutting-edge technology, breathing life into their ideas through unrivalled quality and lightning-fast results. From commercial printing to laser cutting, engraving, monogramming, and direct-to-garment printing, they set unbeatable standards and prices. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and an unbridled passion for innovation, Digitalreality has truly emerged as the indisputable choice for businesses of all sizes across Nigeria.
Dayspring Property Development Company
In an apparent move that cements her position as a seasoned entrepreneur and astute investor, Apostle Alakija’s foray into real estate didn’t come as a surprise. Her keen sense of adventure and hunger to create gave birth to Dayspring Property Development Company Limited.
As a premier luxury real estate developer based in Lagos, Dayspring Property Development Company Limited (DSPDC) is responsible for some of the most iconic buildings in Lagos, including the waterfront Rose of Sharon Towers in Victoria Island and Centre Point, Africa’s premier workspace.
Dayspring's impressive portfolio includes a range of luxury homes, apartments, and commercial mixed-use properties located in some of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Lagos. Each of their properties is designed and constructed with an emphasis on quality, style, and functionality.
"Just start small with what you have and you can grow the business."
- Folorunso Alakija -