A Comprehensive Biography
Early Life and Education
Olusegun Rahman Mimiko, known affectionately as ‘Iroko’, was born on October 3, 1954, in Ondo Town, Ondo State, Nigeria. His father, Atiku Bamidele Mimiko, was a sawmill manager and cocoa plantation farmer, while his mother, Muinat Mimiko (née Ogunsulie), was a trader. Mimiko’s early education began at St. Joseph’s Primary School, Aponmu, near Akure, and continued at St. Patrick Primary School, Yaba, in Ondo. He attended St. Joseph’s College, Ondo from 1966 to 1971, followed by Higher School Certificate studies at Gboluji Grammar School, Ile-Oluji between 1971 and 1972. Mimiko entered the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1972, where he was actively involved in student governance and graduated with a B.Sc. in Health Science in 1976 and a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery in 1980.
Medical Career
After completing his National Youth Service Corps year, Mimiko began his medical practice and founded MONA MEDICLINIC in Ondo Town in 1985. The clinic served as a community charity center, reflecting his commitment to public health and community service.
Political Career
Mimiko’s political journey began during his time at the University of Ife, where he was a member of the Students’ Representatives Council and served as the public relations officer of the International Students’ Association from 1977 to 1978. His first significant political appointment came in 1992 when he served as the Commissioner for Health and Social Services in Ondo State. Although his tenure was cut short by a military coup in 1993, he returned to the role of Commissioner for Health in 1999 and served until 2002.
In 2003, Mimiko was appointed Secretary to the Ondo State Government (SSG), a position he held until 2005 when he was appointed as the federal Minister of Housing and Urban Development. He resigned from this position to contest the governorship of Ondo State in the 2007 elections. Despite the initial announcement of his opponent, Olusegun Agagu, as the winner, Mimiko contested the results in court and was declared the true winner in 2009 after a two-year legal battle.
Governorship
Mimiko’s tenure as governor, which lasted from 2009 to 2017, was notable for being the first two-term governorship in Ondo State and for his status as the first Labour Party governor in Nigeria. He focused on various developmental projects and was re-elected in 2012, defeating Olusola Oke of the People’s Democratic Party.
Post-Governorship Activities
After leaving office, Mimiko engaged in public speaking and advocacy, focusing on universal healthcare and good governance. He delivered lectures in Nigeria, London, and Washington, D.C. In September 2018, he announced his intention to run for president in the 2019 elections and received the nomination from the Zenith Labour Party. However, he later suspended his presidential campaign and instead contested for the Ondo Central senatorial seat.
Professional Qualifications
Oba Adetimehin’s academic success paved the way for his professional achievements. He holds several prestigious qualifications, including:
Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (FCIIN)
Fellow of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (FCIB)
Fellow of the Professional Excellence Foundation of Nigeria (PEFON)
Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute of London
Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management
Member of the Institute of Directors
Career Achievements
With over 30 years of management experience, Oba Adetimehin has held various key positions in the insurance industry. His roles have included:
Vice-Chairman and CEO of Jully & Partners Insurance Brokers Limited (2007-2016)
MD/CEO of NFI Insurance Limited (1998-2007)
MD/CEO of AFN (Assureurs-Conseils) Insurance Brokers Limited (1990-1998)
Controller (Oil & Energy) at Hogg Robinson Nigeria (1979-1990)
Throughout his career, Oba Adetimehin has been a bridge builder and a relationship-focused professional, contributing significantly to the development of the insurance sector. He has led initiatives to promote continuous improvement and strategic alliances within the industry.
Professional Affiliations and Contributions
Oba Adetimehin has served the financial services industry with distinction. His contributions include:
President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria
Promoter in the establishment of the College of Insurance & Financial Management (CIFM)
Founder of the Insurance Industry Consultative Council (IICC)
Initiator of strategic alliances with the Insurance Institute of South Africa, Insurance Institute of India, and Malaysia Insurance Institute
Treasurer, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (2000-2009)
Governing Board member, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (1995-1998)
Governing Council member, Nigeria Insurers Association (2000-2007)
Chairman, Board of Nigeria Liability Insurance Pool (2004-2006)
Monarchical Reign
In 2016, Oba Adetimehin ascended to the throne as the 31st Jegun Olu Ekun of Ile-Oluji Kingdom. As a first-class Oba in Ondo State and Nigeria, his reign has been marked by a commitment to community development and the preservation of cultural heritage. His professional and educational background has equipped him to lead effectively, earning him respect both within and beyond his kingdom.
Peoplesmind
