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Nigerian gambling magnate and philanthropist Kessington Adebutu has pledged $2.7 million to support social and economic projects across Remoland in Ogun State.
The donation, one of the largest by a private individual in Nigeria this year, was announced during a symposium titled “Odole Odua: Symbol of Wealth Creation and Catalyst for Sustainable Development,” held in celebration of Adebutu’s 90th birthday. The gesture underscored a lifetime devoted to community advancement, philanthropy, and public service.
The donation to reach Sagamu, Ikenne, Iperu-Remo, and Remo North
Adebutu, widely known as the founder of gaming company Premier Lotto, allocated N1 billion ($676,874) each to the local government areas of Sagamu, Ikenne, Iperu-Remo, his hometown, and Remo North.
The N4 billion ($2.7 million) initiative will be jointly managed by local development associations, traditional rulers, and councils to ensure transparency. Funds will support education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
At the ceremony, Adebutu thanked his community for the honor, saying, “What you have done for me is an invitation to do more for our people. These funds are meant to enhance development and improve lives.”
A lifetime of giving and community impact
This latest pledge builds on decades of charitable work that have marked Adebutu’s career. Through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF) and Premier Lotto Limited’s social programs, he has funded projects in education, healthcare, and youth empowerment across southwestern Nigeria.
He has financed the construction of schools, hospitals, and vocational centers, offered scholarships, and supported youth training grants. Adebutu has also helped rebuild community halls and palaces in Ogun and Lagos States.
Marking his 90th year, Adebutu’s philanthropy continues to shape lives across southwestern Nigeria. “Beyond business, Baba Adebutu has redefined what it means to give back,” said Adetutu Buraimo, chair of his 90th-birthday committee. “His philosophy is simple: wealth must serve humanity.”
Sustaining a legacy of compassion
Born in Iperu-Remo in 1935, Kessington Adebutu built his fortune through Premier Lotto Limited, one of Nigeria’s most successful gaming firms, founded in 2001. He also owns a 28.26 percent stake in Wema Bank via Neemtree Limited, about 6.06 billion shares valued at N115.14 billion ($77.9 million).
In April 2024, Wema Bank paid him N6.06 billion ($4.1 million) in dividends for the fiscal year. With this latest pledge, Adebutu joins a small circle of African philanthropists, including Aliko Dangote and Said Salim Bakhresa, who use personal wealth to address social needs and fund community growth.
Beyond business, Adebutu holds the Yoruba royal title Odole Oodua, symbolizing his role as a bridge between heritage and progress. His family continues that legacy—his son, Oladipupo Adebutu, a former lawmaker and 2023 Ogun State governorship candidate, says they remain committed to “upholding the heritage of selfless service.”
