The Nigerian political and business communities are mourning the sudden death of Bisola Kola-Daisi, the eldest daughter of late Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, who passed away in the United Kingdom on Thursday after a brief illness. The 42-year-old was a respected business leader and public servant, serving as Special Adviser to Minister of Budget and Planning Atiku Bagudu at the time of her death.
A Life of Service and Enterprise
Mrs. Kola-Daisi carved her own path as Managing Director of Grandex Nigeria Ltd., a prominent fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) distribution company founded in 1984. Her leadership saw the family business expand its retail and wholesale operations across Southwest Nigeria.
In 2023, she transitioned into public service, joining President Bola Tinubu’s administration as an adviser on fiscal policy matters. Colleagues at the Federal Ministry of Budget and Planning described her as “a brilliant strategist who brought private sector efficiency to government.”
Family’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Her husband, Adebola Kola-Daisi, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram: “The world has lost a shining star. Bisola was not just my wife; she was my partner in everything. Her spirit will live on in our children.” The couple leaves behind three young children.
The death marks another painful chapter for the Ajimobi family, who lost patriarch Senator Abiola Ajimobi in June 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bisola had been instrumental in sustaining her father’s political legacy through the Abiola Ajimobi Foundation.
Condolences Pour In
President Tinubu described her as “a beacon of hope for Nigerian youth,” while Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde declared three days of official mourning. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) noted her contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s distribution networks.
Medical sources in London suggest Mrs. Kola-Daisi had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition, though the family has requested privacy regarding specifics. Funeral arrangements will be announced after her remains are repatriated to Nigeria.
