Olayinka Clarence Adeniyi

Clarence Olayinka Adeniyi was born in 1930 to Pa David Adeniyi and Mama Mary Adeniyi of Ogga, Yagba West Local Government Area, Kogi State. He was the third child among his siblings: Late Prof. Adeoye Adeniyi; Late Olatunde Adeniyi; Late Engr. Oladunjoye Adeniyi; Late Mrs. Tale Ojuekaiye; and Ijaola Adeniyi.

A self-made man blessed with God’s special favor, Olayinka Adeniyi had a remarkable educational journey. He began as a Grade II Teacher’s Certificate holder from the Lagos State Teachers’ Training College, Surulere, and later obtained his Ordinary and Advanced Level GCE from Odu Abore Secondary School. Through correspondence studies, he became a distinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Transport, London, and was among the first few individuals in Nigeria to pass the examinations. He further enriched his knowledge through various short courses, including Business Administration at the University of Lagos, Akoka.

As a dedicated educator, Olayinka Adeniyi taught at several institutions, including Baptist Primary School, Oke Ado, Ibadan; Ijero Baptist School, Apapa Road, Lagos; Clerical Training College, Surulere; and Yaba College of Technology, where he lectured in English Language and British Commonwealth History. His passion for education led him to co-found State High School (formerly Progress College), Lagos, where he instilled discipline and a strong work ethic in his students.

Beyond teaching, Olayinka Adeniyi ventured into business. He served as a director of a furniture company, owned a cold room business, and was the Managing Director of Gafis Glamour Garments Limited, Lagos. He also held several leadership positions in voluntary organizations, including Assistant Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Transport, Nigeria Section (1973–1975); General Secretary of the Nigeria–India Association (1973–1985); and President of the Rotary Club of Iju, District 9110 (1994–1995). He was an active Rotarian and the first President of the Boy Scouts of Ogba Local Association, Lagos State.

A man of strong faith, Olayinka Adeniyi served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos, and as Chairman of its Building Committee. He founded and nurtured the church’s Junior Choir and was an active member of the Men’s Missionary Union (MMU). He was an avid reader, accomplished orator, and lover of good music, particularly hymns and classical music.

A sports enthusiast, Olayinka Adeniyi was a talented footballer, lawn tennis player, and hockey player. He was among the first hockey coaches to train members of the Nigerian Police Force at the Police College, Ikeja, and was a foundation member of the Officers’ Mess at the college. As a member of the Ikeja Country Club, he enjoyed playing lawn tennis and spent many years training others in hockey. His passion for sports extended to coaching and promoting athletics, football, and hockey in Lagos schools. He also facilitated the Nigeria–India football friendly match in 1981.

A prolific writer, he published several articles in national newspapers and authored an unpublished book about his father titled Life and Times of David Osayingbemi Adeniyi: A Colossus Christian Activist during the Colonial Era in Nigeria.

Olayinka Adeniyi was a devoted family man, married to Olufunmilayo Mary Adeniyi for over 56 years, with four children: Bunmi, Bukky, Femi, and Kemi, and grandchildren: Pelumi, Ayomide, Korede, Ololade, and Oluwatobiloba. He passed away on 8th December 2025.

Olayinka will be deeply missed by family and friends. This memorial has been created to honor and celebrate the life of Olayinka Adeniyi.

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord" - Revelation 14:13.