RismadarVoice Reporters, June 20, 2026
Akin Victor Ogunsanya embodies a unique Nigerian story. Born and raised in Lagos, he built relationships across ethnic and regional divides, served in Benin during his National Youth Service, married an Igbo woman, and developed friendships spanning the length and breadth of the country.
A conversation with Ogunsanya easily traverses politics, national development, football and culture. His deep knowledge of Nigeria’s history and diversity reflects a life shaped by experiences beyond geographical and ethnic boundaries.
According to him, personal character should always take precedence over ethnic identity.
“I relate with people based on who they are as individuals. Tribalism, ethnicity, corruption and many other social problems thrive where education is lacking. Travelling, living among different people and understanding their cultures are important aspects of education,” he said.
A true Lagosian, Ogunsanya is familiar with both the bustling streets of Mushin and the middle-class neighbourhoods of Surulere. His journey through life took him from Ebute Metta and Costain to Apapa and eventually Ikoyi.
Recalling his early years, he said:
“I was born in Ebute Metta and moved to Surulere shortly after the Civil War. I lived in Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s residence on Park Lane before later owning a house in Apapa GRA. Today, I reside in Ikoyi.”
His connections extend well beyond Lagos. Married to a member of the Asinobi Royal Family of Obazu Mbieri in Imo State, Ogunsanya says he has built friendships across Nigeria and has visited nearly every state in the federation.
“I have friends in every part of Nigeria and have only not visited Adamawa and Taraba. I have interacted with traditional rulers across the country, including several Emirs. The Sultan of Sokoto is also a personal friend,” he revealed.
His relationship with his wife began over four decades ago in Benin City during his service years. Interestingly, they later discovered that their childhood histories intersected in Lagos.
“We have been married for 33 years, but we met about 40 years ago in Benin. Later, I found out that her family moved to Kano Street in Ebute Metta after the Civil War. There is every possibility that I passed by her house daily on my way to St. Paul’s Primary School,” he recalled.
St. Paul’s Primary School produced several notable footballers, including Stephen Keshi, Paul Okoku, Godwin Odiye, Nat Ogedegbe and Deinde Akinlotan. Although Ogunsanya did not pursue a football career, he remained close to many of the players during his school days.
Speaking on his friendship with Akinlotan, he said:
“Deinde and I started primary school on the same day and even shared a desk. He was talented and loved dribbling opponents, especially with his left foot. Many of my classmates went on to become accomplished footballers.”
Despite his successful career and financial stability, Ogunsanya expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s developmental challenges. He believes corruption and weak institutions continue to undermine the country’s progress.
“Even if Nigeria receives five trillion dollars today, little may change if the system remains the same. Strong institutions can only emerge from a functional educational system that is rooted in our realities while maintaining a global outlook.”
His concerns about the country’s future have even influenced his retirement plans.
“I intend to relocate somewhere else after retirement. I will still return to Nigeria occasionally, but I want some distance from the daily frustrations associated with the country’s challenges,” he said.
A successful investor and entrepreneur, Ogunsanya attributes his achievements to divine grace, particularly after more than three decades of self-employment.
Away from business, football remains one of his enduring passions. He is especially fond of Stationery Stores Football Club, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated teams.
“I watched many of their matches in the 1970s at the UAC Stadium in Surulere. Through my uncle’s connection with Haruna Ilerika, I occasionally spent time with the players at their guest house on match days. Years later, I also took my son to watch the team play at Onikan Stadium. Up Super Stores International,” he said.
On Nigeria’s absence from the FIFA World Cup, Ogunsanya described it as a reminder of the need for better football development structures.
“The fact that many Nigerians are representing other countries shows the abundance of talent we possess. Ultimately, every nation must take responsibility for creating opportunities and building systems that allow talent to thrive.”
