Adebutu kessington biography, fondly known across Nigeria as “Baba Ijebu”, is a legendary businessman, investor, and philanthropist whose name has become synonymous with the lottery and gaming industry in Nigeria. As the founder and chairman of Premier Lotto Limited, he built one of the country’s largest and most enduring private enterprises.
Now at the age of 90, Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu remains a towering figure of success, generosity, and community impact known not just for wealth but also for his deep philanthropic footprint across education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
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Early Life and Origin
Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu was born on 24 October 1935 in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria.
He hails from a Yoruba family — the son of Alhaji Karimu Folarin Adebutu and Alhaja Seliat Olasimbi Adebutu. His mother tongue is Yoruba, but he is also fluent in English, which he used extensively throughout his long business and public career.
Adebutu’s educational journey began at Ijero Baptist School, Apapa Road, Lagos. He later attended Baptist Academy, Lagos, and completed his secondary education at Remo Secondary School, Sagamu, in 1955.
From these humble beginnings in Ogun State, he rose to become one of Nigeria’s most prominent and respected businessmen.
Career and Occupation
Early Career Path
After completing his schooling, Kessington Adebutu began working at Cable & Wireless Limited (which later became NITEL) before moving to Classic Chemical Limited, where he served as a salesman and later a sales manager.
In 1963, driven by ambition and entrepreneurial spirit, he resigned to start his own business ventures — the decision that marked the beginning of his rise in Nigeria’s commercial landscape.
Founding Premier Lotto Limited (Baba Ijebu)
Kessington Adebutu’s major breakthrough came with the creation of Premier Lotto Limited, popularly branded as “Baba Ijebu”, officially incorporated in 2001.
The company operates lottery pools and gaming services, becoming a household name in Nigeria. Under his leadership, Premier Lotto became one of the largest and most trusted lottery brands in West Africa — employing thousands and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s entertainment and gaming industry.
Adebutu’s reputation for transparency, reliability, and timely payouts cemented his brand’s dominance. “Baba Ijebu” isn’t just a name it’s an institution.
Diversification into Other Sectors
Beyond gaming, Adebutu’s investments extend into:
- Banking: Shareholder in Wema Bank PLC
- Healthcare: Founder of the DIAMED Centre, a modern medical facility in Lagos
- Real Estate & Hospitality: Multiple holdings across Lagos and Ogun States
- Agriculture & Manufacturing: Ongoing ventures supporting local industries
His business empire reflects decades of diversification, resilience, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s economic terrain.
Philanthropy and Foundations
Chief Adebutu’s commitment to giving back is embodied in the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF), which focuses on:
- Education – scholarships, library donations, and infrastructure in schools
- Healthcare – hospital equipment, medical outreach, and DIAMED Centre establishment
- Youth Empowerment – vocational training, sports, and employment initiatives
Through KAAF, he has touched thousands of lives across Nigeria, making philanthropy a central part of his legacy.
Recent News (2025)
₦4 Billion Development Donation
In celebration of his upcoming 90th birthday, Kessington Adebutu donated ₦4 billion to several local governments in Ogun State — including Ikenne, Sagamu, Remo North, and his hometown Iperu-Akesan.
The funds are directed toward infrastructure development, education, and youth empowerment — continuing his lifelong dedication to community progress.
UNILAG Research Centre Launch
In another major milestone, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, recently inaugurated the Kesington Adebutu Research Centre at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
This centre was established through Adebutu’s donation to promote academic excellence, research, and innovation in Nigerian higher education.
Entering the League of Nonagenarians
In 2025, Chief Adebutu officially joins the league of nonagenarians — celebrating 90 years of impactful living. Tributes from business leaders, politicians, and royal institutions have poured in, acknowledging his decades of contribution to Nigeria’s development.
Titles, Honours & Recognition
Kessington Adebutu holds several prestigious chieftaincy titles and national honours, including:
- Odole-Oodua of Ile-Ife
- Babalaje of Lagos
- Balogun of Remoland
- Asoju Oba of Lagos
- Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
- Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
These honours recognize both his business success and service to humanity.
Children and Family
Chief Adebutu is blessed with several children, many of whom are successful professionals and entrepreneurs in their own right.
Some of his known children include:
- Adebisi Adebutu – a businessman managing parts of the Premier Lotto operations.
- Abiola Olorede – Managing Director of DIAMED Centre, Lagos.
- Bola Matel-Okoh – an attorney and business executive.
While the exact number of children is private, public records suggest he has around 12 children across various professional fields.
His family continues to uphold the Adebutu legacy of enterprise and philanthropy.
Net Worth
Determining the exact Kessington Adebutu net worth is complex because his assets are privately held.
However, here’s what verified sources reveal:
| Source | Estimated Net Worth | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Billionaires.Africa | ₦25.88 billion (≈ US $17 million) | 2024 |
| MarketScreener | ≈ US $76 million | 2025 |
| Unverified Social Media Reports | Up to US $700 million | 2024 |
With his diverse holdings, it is safe to conclude that Chief Adebutu’s net worth lies between tens and hundreds of millions of dollars.
He is among Nigeria’s richest self-made businessmen, though he continues to live a relatively humble and charitable life.
Language and Cultural Background
As a native of Iperu-Remo in Ogun State, Chief Adebutu’s primary language is Yoruba.
He also speaks English fluently, which he uses in his business and public communications.
His life reflects the rich Yoruba traditions of hard work, integrity, and community service.
Quick Facts About Kessington Adebutu
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu |
| Nickname | Baba Ijebu |
| Date of Birth | 24 October 1935 |
| Age (2025) | 90 Years |
| Place of Birth | Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria |
| Ethnicity / Language | Yoruba / English |
| Occupation | Businessman, Founder of Premier Lotto Limited |
| Known For | Baba Ijebu Lottery Brand |
| Net Worth (Est.) | $17 million – $700 million |
| Children | Approx. 12 (including Adebisi, Abiola, Bola) |
| Philanthropy | KAAF Foundation, DIAMED Centre, Research Centres |
| Recent News | ₦4 billion donation & UNILAG Research Centre launch |
| Titles & Honours | OON, CON, Odole Oodua, Asoju Oba of Lagos |
Legacy and Impact
Kessington Adebutu’s story is a model of vision, persistence, and giving back.
From a small-town boy in Ogun State to Nigeria’s most celebrated lottery entrepreneur, he has shaped industries, empowered communities, and built institutions that will outlast him.
His 90th birthday celebrations mark not just a milestone of age, but a lifetime of achievement and service to humanity.
Conclusion
Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu — Baba Ijebu — is more than a businessman; he is a national treasure.
His life embodies entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and cultural pride.
From founding Premier Lotto Limited to donating billions for education and community projects, Adebutu continues to inspire generations.
As he turns 90, Nigeria celebrates not only his longevity but also his unwavering commitment to growth, charity, and legacy.
Also Read: Shugatiti Biography : Age, Origin, Net Worth, Career, and Latest News
FAQs
Q1: What is Kessington Adebutu’s current age?
He is 90 years old as of October 2025.
Q2: What is the latest news about Kessington Adebutu?
He recently donated ₦4 billion to Ogun State communities and funded the Kesington Adebutu Research Centre at UNILAG.
Q3: What is his net worth?
His estimated net worth ranges from $17 million to $700 million, depending on valuation sources.
Q4: What company made him famous?
He is the founder and chairman of Premier Lotto Limited, popularly known as Baba Ijebu.
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