The Legacy of Abusi Odumare: Celebrating a Renowned Ijebu Businessman and Philanthropist By Ayo Marvel

Media Practitioner, Ayo Marvel brings to light the extraordinary life and lasting contributions of Late Chief Odutuyo Timothy Kuti, fondly known as Abusi Odumare, a renowned Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and community leader whose impact continues to be felt in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, and beyond.

He was born on November 11, 1909, in Etitale Ojowo, Ijebu Igbo, Abusi Odumare was a man of great influence, hailing from the distinguished Sisu Lane ruling lineage in Ojowo Area in Ijebu Igbo.

Abusi Odumare was born into a family of prominence and affluence. His father, who served as the Baale of Ojowo during his time, was a man of significant power and influence.

The family house, built over a century ago, still stands in the Ojowo area, serving as a symbol of the family’s enduring legacy. Abusi Odumare married five wives and had over 22 children, ensuring that his lineage would continue to thrive and uphold the family’s heritage.

In his lifetime, Baba Abusi was honored to be the Babalaje of Ijebu Igbo, a prominent traditional title, in the Ijebu Igbo kingdom.

As a forward-thinking entrepreneur, Abusi Odumare made remarkable strides in business, leaving a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s economic landscape. In January 1970, he founded Abusi Odumare Academy, a prestigious secondary school in Ijebu Igbo that became known for its high standards of education and academic excellence.

Abusi Odumare Academy: A Beacon of Excellence

Notably, Abusi Odumare Academy played a pivotal role in the inception of Ogun State University, now known as Olabisi Onabanjo University. The academy served as the university’s temporary campus until the permanent site in Ago-Iwoye was completed.

Renowned for its academic excellence and state-of-the-art infrastructure, Abusi Odumare Academy ranked among the top private secondary schools in Ogun State. The academy boasted impressive facilities, including a mini-stadium and an on-site bakery that catered to the students’ needs.

His investments in Abusi Odumare Academy provided the school with elegant staff quarters, cars for teachers, excellent hostel accommodations, and state-of-the-art science laboratories, ensuring that students had access to quality education and modern facilities.

Today, the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic utilizes one of the academy’s blocks for its Mass Communication Department and as a mini-campus.

Notably, Abusi Odumare Academy was one of the first private secondary schools in Nigeria and the first in Ijebu Igbo, setting a benchmark for quality education in the region.

He also ventured into the transportation sector by establishing Abusi Odu Transport, where he displayed remarkable foresight by purchasing over 8,000 Morris Minor vehicles, which he sold to taxi operators across Nigeria, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the transport industry.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Abusi Odumare Car Stand, strategically located between Oru and Odorasanyin (Oke-Oba), was a spectacle to behold. This expansive car stand, resembling an auto assembly plant, showcased an impressive array of vehicles, with many more stored in an underground lot visible from the Oru-Ijebu Igbo road.

Beyond business, Abusi Odumare was a committed philanthropist whose passion for education and community development was unmatched. His generosity extended to various initiatives aimed at uplifting the community and improving the lives of the people around him.

Abusi Odumare’s influence extends through his children and grandchildren. One of his sons, Lanre Kuti, is married to celebrated Nollywood actress Jaiye Kuti, and they have been blessed with two children.

He passed away in his sleep 14 days after his 90th birthday on November 25, 1999, at the age of 90, Abusi Odumare’s legacy of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community service continues to inspire generations.

His iconic residence at Obafemi Awolowo West Avenue, Ojowo, built in 1959, remains a powerful symbol of his success and lasting influence.

In a lasting tribute to his remarkable life, Abusi Odumare was buried on the grounds of Abusi Odumare Academy, alongside his beloved wife, Oladunni. Their tombs remain on the school premises, serving as a perpetual reminder of their dedication to education, community development, and the advancement of future generations.

This account was gathered directly from the family head and Oloritin of Sisu Lane, Chief Oduneye Kuti, and Baba Abusi son, Mr. Lanre Kuti, ensuring accuracy and authenticity.

MarvelTvUpdates celebrates the life of Abusi Odumare and acknowledges his invaluable contributions to Nigerian society, preserving his memory as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.

Credit for this stunning image goes to popular photographer Bhenji Shot It (Abayomi Benjamin Sosanya).