Folorunsho Alakija is one of the most influential women in Africa. Known as a business mogul, philanthropist, and minister of God, her story is a perfect mix of hard work, faith, and resilience.
From her humble beginnings in Nigeria to becoming a billionaire and spiritual leader, she remains a role model for people who want to combine business success with a strong sense of purpose.
In this biography, we will look into her age, family, businesses, net worth, ministry, and the truth behind the recent rumor about her eyesight.
Early Life and Age
Folorunsho Alakija was born on July 15, 1951, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. She grew up in a large family and was one of 52 children of her father, who was a respected chief. Despite coming from a polygamous background, she received good care and support from her family.
She started her early education in Nigeria before moving to the United Kingdom for her secondary school. Later, she studied secretarial studies in London and eventually built a career that would expand into fashion, oil, real estate, and philanthropy.
As of today, Folorunsho Alakija is 74 years old. She continues to inspire people around the world with her wisdom and achievements.
Marriage and Husband
In November 1976, Folorunsho married Modupe Alakija, a lawyer and businessman. Their marriage has lasted for decades, which is an outstanding achievement considering the challenges that come with public life and business success.
The couple has built a strong family together, and Modupe has often been described as her biggest supporter. Together, they have weathered challenges, raised children, and created a legacy of business success and philanthropy.
Children
Folorunsho and Modupe Alakija are blessed with four sons. The family is known to be private, but they are active in both business and charity.
One of her sons, Folarin Alakija, came into the spotlight in 2017 when he married Nazanin Jafarian Ghaissarifar, a model and actress. The wedding, held in London, made headlines across the world and was described as one of the most expensive weddings at the time.
Her children are not only successful but also carry forward the family’s values of business acumen, faith, and philanthropy.
Business Career and Net Worth
Folorunsho’s journey to success is nothing short of inspiring. She first worked as a secretary in a bank in Nigeria before pursuing her passion for fashion. She studied fashion design in London and later founded her own fashion label called Supreme Stitches in Nigeria. The brand quickly became popular among Nigeria’s elite women.
However, her biggest business breakthrough came in the 1990s when she applied for an oil license. She eventually secured a stake in an oil block through her company, Famfa Oil Limited. Today, Famfa Oil is one of the most successful oil exploration companies in Nigeria.
Her investments also span across real estate and printing industries. Thanks to her diverse portfolio, Folorunsho Alakija has been consistently listed among the richest women in Africa. At her peak, she was recognized as the richest woman in Nigeria and one of the wealthiest women of African descent in the world.
Her net worth has been estimated at around 1 billion US dollars. Though her wealth has fluctuated depending on oil prices and investments, she remains a billionaire and a force in global business.
Church, Faith, and Ministry
One of the most remarkable aspects of Folorunsho Alakija’s life is her strong Christian faith. Born into a Muslim family, she converted to Christianity at the age of 40.
She has often shared that her faith was the turning point of her life, guiding her decisions and shaping her character.
She went on to establish the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International (RoSGMI). What started as small prayer meetings in her home has grown into a full-fledged church and ministry.
The ministry not only spreads the gospel but also supports widows, orphans, and less-privileged individuals through education, scholarships, and empowerment programs.
Her philanthropy, through the Rose of Sharon Foundation, has touched thousands of lives. She provides housing, financial support, and entrepreneurial training for women and youth, proving that her wealth is also a tool for community development.
Blindness Rumor: Fact or Fiction?
Recently, news began to spread online that Folorunsho Alakija had gone blind after a near-air incident. This rumor quickly gained attention, with many people expressing concern about her health.
However, as of now, there has been no confirmed evidence that she has completely lost her sight. While it is true that people speculated about her health after she stayed out of the public eye for a while, she has since made appearances and even shared messages with her followers.
It is important to treat such claims with caution. Folorunsho Alakija is still alive, active in her faith, and continues to inspire people. The blindness story remains unconfirmed and is best seen as a rumor rather than fact.
Why Folorunsho Alakija’s Story Inspires Millions
Folorunsho Alakija’s story is a shining example of how determination, faith, and hard work can change lives. She started with humble beginnings, built a fashion brand, became a billionaire in oil, and then dedicated her life to faith and philanthropy.
She is admired for:
Breaking barriers as a woman in male-dominated industries like oil and gas.
Using her wealth to help widows, orphans, and young entrepreneurs.
Living a life of deep faith and ministry despite her immense wealth.
Showing that success is possible regardless of background.
Her journey is proof that success is not just about money but also about leaving a lasting legacy.
Top FAQs about Folorunsho Alakija
1. How old is Folorunsho Alakija?
She was born on July 15, 1951, which makes her 74 years old.
2. Who is Folorunsho Alakija’s husband?
She is married to Modupe Alakija, and they have been together since November 1976.
3. How many children does she have?
She has four sons, including Folarin Alakija, who is well-known for his lavish wedding.
4. What is Folorunsho Alakija’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at around 1 billion US dollars, making her one of the richest women in Africa.
5. What church or ministry does she lead?
She is the founder of the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International (RoSGMI).
6. Did Folorunsho Alakija go blind?
There are rumors about her going blind, but no confirmed evidence supports this claim.
7. What businesses does she own?
She is the Vice Chair of Famfa Oil and has interests in fashion, real estate, and printing.
Final Thoughts
Folorunsho Alakija is more than just a billionaire; she is a woman of faith, vision, and compassion. Her biography is filled with lessons about perseverance, the power of faith, and the importance of giving back to society. Whether in business, ministry, or philanthropy, she continues to influence millions of people around the world.
