Folorunsho Alakija biography details her net worth, age, early life, education, family, business career, faith journey, and legacy as a global entrepreneur.
Folorunsho Alakija is one of Africa’s most influential business leaders, philanthropists, and faith advocates. Widely recognized as Nigeria’s richest woman for many years, she built a global reputation through perseverance, strategic thinking, and unwavering belief in purpose-driven leadership. Her name is synonymous with success in the oil and gas industry, fashion entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
What makes Folorunsho Alakija’s story remarkable is not just her wealth, but how she built it—through resilience, learning, and a long-term vision rooted in discipline and faith. She began her career humbly, navigating multiple industries before achieving monumental success in the energy sector. Over the decades, she has remained a role model for women in business, particularly in male-dominated fields.
“Success doesn’t come overnight; it is built step by step with faith and determination,” she once expressed—words that echo throughout her life journey. This biography explores Folorunsho Alakija’s early life, education, family background, career milestones, net worth, and lasting legacy.
Highlights of Folorunsho Alakija Biography
- Full Name: Folorunsho Alakija
- Date of Birth: July 15, 1951
- Age: 73 years old (as of 2025)
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Profession: Businesswoman, Philanthropist, Author
- Net Worth: Estimated at $1 billion – $2.5 billion
- Marital Status: Married
- Husband: Modupe Alakija
- Known For: Oil & gas business, Rose of Sharon Group
Early Life
Folorunsho Alakija was born on July 15, 1951, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. She was born into a disciplined and values-driven family that emphasized education, integrity, and hard work. Her early childhood was shaped by strong moral teachings and an environment that encouraged ambition and responsibility.
As a young girl, she displayed intelligence, curiosity, and independence. Her parents recognized her potential early and invested in her education, ensuring she received both local and international exposure. This foundational upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her character and future leadership style.
Growing up during a period when opportunities for women were limited, Folorunsho developed resilience early in life. These formative experiences prepared her mentally for the challenges she would later face in business and leadership.
Education
Folorunsho Alakija began her education in Nigeria before traveling abroad for further studies. She attended Dinorben School for Girls in Wales, United Kingdom, where she gained exposure to global culture and disciplined academic training.
She later studied secretarial administration at Pitman’s Central College in London. Her education equipped her with organizational, communication, and administrative skills that became valuable in her professional journey.
Despite not following a traditional business-school path, Folorunsho’s continuous learning mindset played a major role in her success. She consistently invested in personal development, mentorship, and spiritual growth, proving that education extends far beyond formal classrooms.
Career / Professional Journey
Folorunsho Alakija’s career journey is a powerful example of strategic reinvention. She began her professional life working as an executive secretary in a commercial bank in Nigeria. While the role provided stability, she aspired for more autonomy and impact.
In the early 1980s, she transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding Supreme Stitches, a fashion and tailoring business that later evolved into Rose of Sharon House of Fashion. Her fashion brand gained recognition both locally and internationally, dressing elite clients and dignitaries.
Her most defining career breakthrough came in the oil and gas sector. In the 1990s, Folorunsho secured an oil prospecting license through her company, Famfa Oil Limited. Despite having no prior experience in oil exploration, she pursued the opportunity with boldness and diligence.
Famfa Oil later partnered with international energy companies, leading to the discovery of large offshore oil reserves. This move transformed her into one of Africa’s wealthiest individuals and solidified her status as a global business powerhouse.
Beyond oil and fashion, she expanded her business interests into real estate, printing, and philanthropy, creating a diversified portfolio built on long-term sustainability.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Folorunsho Alakija’s estimated net worth ranges between $1 billion and $2.5 billion, making her one of Africa’s richest women. Her wealth primarily stems from oil and gas ventures, investments, and diversified business holdings.
Despite her immense wealth, Folorunsho Alakija is known for her modest lifestyle and strong spiritual values. She emphasizes stewardship over materialism and often speaks about using wealth as a tool for impact rather than personal indulgence.
Her assets include luxury properties, business holdings, and philanthropic foundations, but her public image remains rooted in humility and service.
Personal Life
Folorunsho Alakija is married to Modupe Alakija, a lawyer and businessman. Their marriage has endured for several decades and is often described as a partnership built on mutual respect, faith, and shared values.
The couple is blessed with children, whom they raised with strong moral and spiritual foundations. Family plays a central role in Folorunsho’s life, and she frequently emphasizes the importance of balancing career success with home stability.
She is also deeply religious and serves as an ordained minister, integrating faith into both her personal and professional decisions. Her belief system has significantly shaped her leadership philosophy and philanthropic commitments.
Conclusion
Folorunsho Alakija’s life story is a remarkable testament to vision, courage, and perseverance. From a modest upbringing to becoming a global business icon, she has consistently broken barriers and redefined what is possible for women in business.
Her success extends beyond wealth—it is reflected in her faith-driven leadership, commitment to philanthropy, and dedication to empowering others. Folorunsho Alakija remains an enduring symbol of excellence, resilience, and purposeful living.
“When you walk in purpose, provision will follow,” a message her life continues to embody.
FAQs About Folorunsho Alakija
❓ What is Folorunsho Alakija’s net worth?
Folorunsho Alakija’s net worth is estimated between $1 billion and $2.5 billion, primarily from oil and gas investments.
❓ How old is Folorunsho Alakija?
She was born on July 15, 1951, making her 73 years old as of 2025.
❓ What is Folorunsho Alakija’s educational background?
She studied in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, including Dinorben School for Girls and Pitman’s Central College.
❓ Is Folorunsho Alakija married?
Yes, she is married to Modupe Alakija.
❓ What businesses is Folorunsho Alakija known for?
She is best known for Famfa Oil Limited and Rose of Sharon Group.
❓ What is Folorunsho Alakija’s nationality?
Folorunsho Alakija is Nigerian.
❓ How did Folorunsho Alakija become wealthy?
She built her wealth through strategic investments in oil and gas, entrepreneurship, and diversified business ventures.
