Yemi Osinbajo Biography: Age, Career, Education & Wiki 2025
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In the bustling metropolis of Lagos, a young boy with bright eyes and an insatiable curiosity stood among his peers at Igbobi College Yaba. Even then, his sharp mind and eloquence set him apart, and he won oratory awards and admiration from teachers and fellow students. His story is an unwavering dedication to law, education, leadership, and service.
Yemi Osinbajo’s life is a remarkable blend of academic brilliance, political service, and unwavering leadership. From humble beginnings in Lagos to becoming Nigeria’s 14th Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has built an extraordinary career in law, governance, and public service. His journey is a testament to hard work, integrity, and dedication to his country.
Yemi Osinbajo Biography & Wikipedia
Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo, popularly known as Yemi Osinbajo, was born on March 8, 1957, at Creek Hospital in Lagos State, Nigeria. A distinguished Nigerian lawyer, academic, pastor, and politician, he rose to prominence as the 14th Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. His life is a testament to resilience, intellectual brilliance, and a strong commitment to national development.
Yemi Osinbajo’s political journey began after decades of contributing to Nigeria’s legal and educational systems. Born into the Osinbajo family, his father, Opeoluwa Osinbajo, was a reputable figure who instilled in him the values of integrity and hard work. Over the years, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has built an impressive profile, holding titles such as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), senior partner at SimmonsCooper Partners, and professor of law at the University of Lagos.
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Yemi Osinbajo Educational Background
Yemi Osinbajo’s journey in education began at Corona Primary School, Lagos. He later proceeded to Igbobi College Yaba, where his academic brilliance and exceptional English oratory skills earned him notable recognition. Some of his awards during his school years include:
- State Merit Award (1971)
- School Prize for English Oratory (1972)
- Adeoba Prize for English Oratory (1972–1975)
- Elias Prize for Best Performance in History (WASC, 1973)
- School Prize for Literature (HSC, 1975)
- African Statesman Intercollegiate Best Speaker’s Prize (1974)
Yemi Osinbajo’s exceptional academic performance led him to pursue a law degree at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). He graduated in 1978 with a Second-Class Upper Division. After completing his undergraduate studies, Osinbajo attended the Nigerian Law School, where he became a qualified legal practitioner in 1979.
His quest for knowledge did not stop there. In 1980, Yemi Osinbajo earned his Master of Laws (LL.M) from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science. His academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his legal and academic career, eventually making him one of Nigeria’s most notable legal minds.
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Yemi Osinbajo Early Career
After completing his education, Yemi Osinbajo began his legal career during the mandatory National Youth Service Corps in 1980; he served as a legal officer with the Bendel Development and Plan in 1981, at the age of 24ning Authority (BDPA) in Bendel State.1981, at just 24 years old, Professor Osinbajo joined the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as a law lecturer. His passion for legal education and his gift for teaching quickly earned him respect among his students and colleagues. Honorable dedication to the legal profession earned him an appointment as Senior Special Adviser (Solicitor-General and Litigation) to Nigeria’s Honourable Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Bola Ajibola.
Yemi Osinbajo’s reputation as a sharp legal thinker grew during this period. He balanced his roles as a lecturer, legal advisor, and mentor to many upcoming legal practitioners. In 1997, he became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a testament to his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s legal system.
Yemi Osinbajo Political Career
Yemi Osinbajo’s foray into politics began when he was appointed as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State under Governor Bola Tinubu from 1999 to 2007. During his tenure, Osinbajo initiated reforms in the Lagos State judiciary, including establishing the Citizens Mediation Centre.
After forming the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, Osinbajo was tasked, alongside other notable Nigerians, to design the party’s manifesto. This effort led to the creation of the Roadmap to a New Nigeria, which outlined the APC’s vision for governance.
On December 17, 2014, APC’s presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, announced Yemi Osinbajo as his running mate for the 2015 general elections. Following a successful election, Yemi Osinbajo assumed office as Vice President on May 29, 2015. He played a significant role in driving economic reforms, poverty alleviation programs, and anti-corruption efforts during his tenure.
Yemi Osinbajo also served as acting president on multiple occasions, such as when President Muhammadu Buhari traveled abroad for medical treatment. His tenure as Acting President was marked by decisive leadership, including his handling of Nigeria’s economic challenges and social initiatives.
Controversy
Despite his achievements, Yemi Osinbajo’s career has not been without controversy. In 2020, a report by Peoples Gazette linked his law firm, SimmonsCooper Partners, to a money-laundering front known as Ocean Trust Limited. The report alleged connections between the shell company and Osinbajo’s firm through bank transactions. The company was reportedly owned by Osinbajo’s former boss and APC leader, Bola Tinubu, during his time as Lagos State Commissioner.
Osinbajo denied any wrongdoing, and no formal charges were brought against him. Nevertheless, the allegations sparked debates on political accountability and transparency in Nigeria.
Yemi Osinbajo Family
Yemi Osinbajo was born into the family of Opeoluwa Osinbajo on March 8, 1957, in Lagos State. He is married to Dolapo Osinbajo (née Soyode), the granddaughter of the late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo. Together, they have three children:
- Oluwadamilola Osinbajo (married to Oluseun Bakare)
- Olukonyinsola Osinbajo (Kiki Osinbajo)
- Fiyinfoluwa Osinbajo
In September 2020, Yemi Osinbajo and Dolapo welcomed their first grandson, marking a new chapter in their family life.
Yemi Osinbajo Awards and Membership
Yemi Osinbajo has received numerous awards throughout his life, including:
- State Merit Award (1971)
- School Prize for English Oratory (1972)
- Adeoba Prize for English Oratory (1972–1975)
- Elias Prize for Best Performance in History (1973)
- Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (2015)
He is also a member of notable organizations, including:
- Nigerian Bar Association
- International Bar Association
- Council of Legal Education
- Nigerian Body of Benchers
Pastoral Career
Yemi Osinbajo is also a man of faith. He is the Senior Pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Lagos Province 48, Olive Tree Parish. His pastoral career reflects his deep spiritual beliefs and commitment to service.
Yemi Osinbajo Publications
Yemi Osinbajo has published several academic papers and articles on Nigerian law, governance, and comparative law throughout his career. His works are widely referenced in legal and academic circles.
Yemi Osinbajo Social Media Engagement
For updates and insights, Yemi Osinbajo can be found on the following platforms:
- X (Twitter): @ProfOsinbajo
- Instagram: @ProfOsinbajo
- Facebook: @Professor Yemi Osinbaj
Yemi Osinbajo Profile Summary
Full Name | Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo |
---|---|
Date of Birth | March 8, 1957 |
Place of Birth | Lagos State, Nigeria |
Nationality | Nigerian |
Career | Lawyer, Politician, Pastor |
Education | UNILAG, London School of Economics |
Spouse | Dolapo Osinbajo |
Children | Oluwadamilola, Kiki, Fiyinfoluwa |
Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) |
Conclusion
Yemi Osinbajo’s life is a remarkable dedication, leadership, and service journey. From his bright student days at Igbobi College Yaba to his role as Nigeria’s Vice President, Osinbajo has remained committed to excellence. This biography highlights his unwavering contributions to law, politics, education, and religion, cementing his legacy as a notable Nigerian leader.