By Asaye Bankole
Alhaji Dr. Olatunji Olaomonikan Alao Yusuf Lawal is set to be honoured for his contributions to entrepreneurship, community development and humanitarian service at the 2026 Southwest Legends Lecture and Awards.
The prestigious event, organised by D Chronicle Media Ventures, is scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Olusegun Aganga Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The programme, which begins at 1:00 p.m., will be held under the theme, “Legends of Service: The Southwest Blueprint for Nation Building.”
Professor Ambrose Ayelari, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, is expected to deliver the keynote lecture, while Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, former President-General of the Maritime Workers Union, will serve as Chairman of the occasion.
Oyo State Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honour.
The event will feature a public lecture, presentation of awards to distinguished personalities and the official unveiling of a special publication dedicated to the 2026 Southwest Legends.
Among those scheduled to be recognised is Alhaji Dr. Olatunji Olaomonikan Alao Yusuf Lawal, whose life story reflects resilience, determination, entrepreneurship and service to humanity.
Born on August 24, 1957, at Doctor Omitowoju Hospital in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Lawal overcame significant challenges from an early age.
He was orphaned at the age of 10 but remained determined to pursue his education and build a meaningful career despite the difficulties he encountered.
He attended St. Anthony Primary School, Sekunde, Ile-Ife; St. Moromba Primary School, Ile-Ife; St. Peter Catholic Secondary School, Garage Olode, Osun State; and later studied Mechanical Engineering at Catholic Technical College (CATECO), Ile-Ife, in 1976.
His professional journey took him to Lagos, where he initially engaged in various menial jobs before joining Strag-Bag Construction Company in 1976.
He was also part of the team involved in the construction of the Murtala International Airport.
Lawal later worked with Beecham Nigeria Limited between 1983 and 1996 before establishing LAYUS Investment Company Limited in 1997.
The company initially focused on the repair, servicing and procurement of pharmaceutical equipment.
Following several challenges and unsuccessful attempts, he eventually developed CACATIN herbal antiseptic cream, which became one of the company’s flagship products.
Under his leadership, LAYUS Investment Company Limited has expanded significantly, with seven factories, more than 200 employees and several products in the market.
Beyond his business achievements, Lawal has also distinguished himself through community service and philanthropy.
His contributions have earned him several traditional, religious and community titles, including Arowosadini of Mosan Central Mosque, Asiwaju of Araromi Ancient Town of Iru Kingdom, Ajah, Lagos; Seriki Adini of Alfathu-L-Qareeb Muslim Organisation of Nigeria; Gboobaniyi of Olupona, Iwo, Osun State; and Aare Balogun Maiyegun of Ibadan Land.
He is also a member of several organisations, including Lions Club International, Ikeja Club, Ajorosun Club and Egbe Borokini Ibadan.
Lawal holds a Postgraduate Qualifying Diploma in Management from FCIPM, United Kingdom, a Diploma in Traditional Medicine from the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, and an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree in Natural Medicine from ESCAE University, Benin Republic.
His recognition at the 2026 Southwest Legends Lecture and Awards is expected to celebrate not only his entrepreneurial achievements but also his commitment to community development, philanthropy and service to society.
The organisers said the event is designed to celebrate individuals whose contributions and accomplishments continue to provide inspiration and demonstrate the important role of the Southwest in nation building.
The 2026 Southwest Legends Lecture and Awards is expected to attract distinguished personalities, business leaders, academics, public officials, community leaders and other stakeholders from across Nigeria.
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