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Mother Oyenike Michael-Ibru (June 12, 1934 – 2019) was a distinguished Nigerian businesswoman, spiritual leader, and the second wife of the renowned entrepreneur Michael Ibru. Born in Lagos to parents from Ijebu Aiyepe, Ogun State, she emerged as a formidable presence in both the business and religious sectors of Nigeria, leaving a lasting impact on her community.
Her early education at Breadfruit School and Christ Church Cathedral laid the foundation for a life of purpose and resilience. She completed her Senior Cambridge Examinations at Lucas Collegiate before embarking on a professional career that included stints at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation and Banque De L’Afrique Occidentale (Afribank Plc), where she worked as a lady machinist.
At the age of 19, Oyenike met Michael Ibru, then employed by the United African Company (UAC). Together, they had three children, although only one survived at the time of her passing. From the early days of her husband’s entrepreneurial journey, Oyenike played an essential role, promoting his tin tomato business in the 1950s by personally selling the product in the market—a pioneering effort that contributed to the business’s early success.
In 1968, she founded Nicky Fat Agency, an advertising firm located on Balogun Street, Lagos. Demonstrating remarkable versatility, she later transformed the business into Nicky Fat Tours after securing a license from the Lagos State Government to organize pilgrimages to Jerusalem. Her entrepreneurial ventures were complemented by a deep commitment to faith. In 1975, she founded God’s Glorious Shining Star Church (Cherubim and Seraphim), establishing herself as a respected spiritual leader. She also served as a trustee of the African Church Arch Cathedral Bethel Church on Broad Street and, in recognition of her spiritual leadership, was awarded a Doctorate in Divinity by an American university in 1998.
Mother Oyenike Michael-Ibru’s life was defined by a seamless integration of business acumen, faith, and community service. She invested not only in enterprises but also in people, mentoring and supporting those around her. Her legacy continues to inspire Nigerians who seek to balance professional excellence with spiritual and social responsibility.
She passed away peacefully at her Ikoyi residence in 2019 at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, faith, and enduring contributions to both business and community life.
Source:
Biographical records and family accounts of the Ibru family
Nigerian historical and business archives.
SB E-news.
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