By Adeyemi Oluwadamilola Rahmanu
It’s often said that the loudest people are not always the most impactful — and those making real change rarely announce themselves.
In Egbeda-Alimosho, and increasingly beyond, one name continues to surface quietly, respectfully, and repeatedly in conversations about compassion, community development, and real service — Ilyas Abubakri Olanrewaju.
He does not crave publicity. In fact, I had to think long and hard before putting these words together, knowing fully well that this write-up may make him uncomfortable.
He is not one to grants interviews, nor does he stand in front of cameras waving cheques or holding photo-ops.
But when you trace the smiles on the faces of many students, single mothers, youth groups, and small businesses in our community, you often end up at the same place — his doorstep.
Olanrewaju is not your typical headline personality. He moves silently but surely — with hands extended, not for applause, but to uplift.
He has, over the years, financed school fees for hundreds of children, provided seed funds for young entrepreneurs, supported widows and families during hardship, and responded to emergencies with a sense of duty that stems from his deep roots in the Egbeda-Alimosho community.
For him, giving is not an event — it is a way of life.
What’s remarkable isn’t just the scale of his philanthropy, but the manner in which he does it — quietly, respectfully, and without expectations. He doesn’t want to be celebrated.
But those of us who have seen the impact of his kindness firsthand feel it is time people knew the kind of man Ilyas Abubakri Olanrewaju is.
To many, he is a successful businessman — and he is. But to us, he is the helper whose name children mention in whispered gratitude.
He is the reason some families made it through the hardest years. He is the silent hand behind many community efforts that are keeping our young people engaged, focused, and off the streets.
Some say men like him are rare. I say men like him are a blessing — and should not remain hidden.
Dear Olanrewaju, forgive me for this write-up. I know you would rather stay in the shadows. But the light of your goodness is too bright to be ignored any longer. Our community needs more of your kind — not just in giving, but in guiding. You have led quietly by example. Now, more than ever, we ask you not to shy away from the platform your good deeds have built.
Leadership is not always about ambition — sometimes, it’s about answering the call when the people knock.
You have given us enough to admire. But we believe you still have more to offer — especially in a larger space where your values, discipline, and compassion can inspire governance itself.
Whatever path you choose, just know that many of us are watching — not with demands, but with deep respect.
Thank you, sir, for everything you do — even when no one is watching.