International Women’s Day celebrates women whose vision, dedication, and leadership transform communities and inspire generations. It honours individuals who leverage expertise, influence, and compassion to create sustainable impact, advance societal development, and empower others to realise their full potential. Across sectors and borders, this day recognises women whose professional and philanthropic work exemplifies integrity, innovation, and purpose-driven service.
Aarebirin Hon. Princess (Dr) Folashade Olabanji-Oba, also known as Florence-Grace Aishat Akankeade, is a Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, public administrator, and political leader whose career spans real estate, business development, governance, and human rights advocacy. Born on July 24, 1964, she is the first daughter of the late Alhaja Chief Sikirat Atinuke Atobajaye Olabanji (Majayalolo), Iya Sunnah General of Nigeria, and Nurul Islam International Alasalatu of Nigeria. Hailing from a family of accomplished professionals, her mother is a prominent textile merchant, and her father is a respected real estate investor in Lagos Island.
Princess Folashade’s academic journey reflects discipline, ambition, and excellence. She completed her primary education in Offa, Kwara State, before attending Federal Government Girls’ College, Owerri, Imo State. She later pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning a degree in Business Administration and Marketing at the American College in London. Her studies laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial and leadership achievements, combining rigorous business acumen with strategic insight and global exposure.
She further enhanced her expertise with postgraduate diplomas in Computerized Business Systems, Marketing and Management, and Theology, along with a Master’s degree in Theology and Pastoral Leadership. This blend of academic accomplishment and spiritual grounding equips her to navigate complex business, governance, and community challenges with integrity and vision.
Princess Folashade’s professional and entrepreneurial accomplishments are equally impressive. Influenced by her family’s textile and retail legacy, she established successful boutiques and a clothing line in Nigeria. She also gained international experience in insurance and real estate before returning to Nigeria in 2006. Upon her return, she founded Pacific Capital Ltd, a leading real estate and brokerage firm operating in Lagos and London, establishing herself as a prominent figure in property investment, development, and brokerage.
Beyond business, she is a committed philanthropist and advocate for women and family empowerment. She founded the Shelter of Grace Foundation (SGF), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to uplifting communities, supporting women’s rights, and advancing family development in the Ikorodu axis of Lagos. Through SGF, she has positively impacted thousands, reinforcing her belief that sustainable societal progress is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and practical action.
Her leadership also extends into governance and public service. Princess Folashade serves as Executive Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area, National Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria, and Founder of the Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM). A respected chieftain of the APC, she exemplifies strategic vision, integrity, and nation-building commitment, blending public service, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy into a seamless record of achievement.
She is a woman of vision, resilience, and purpose.
She leads with integrity, empathy, and strategic foresight.
She empowers communities, advances women’s rights, and strengthens institutions.
She inspires leadership, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility across Nigeria and beyond.
In recognition of her transformative contributions to business, governance, and community empowerment, Duchess International Magazine honours Aarebirin Hon. Princess (Dr) Folashade Olabanji-Oba and celebrates her enduring legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and excellence.
Happy International Women’s Day.
