Politicians
Abba Kabir Yusuf
Governor of Kano State
Early Life and Background
Olugbenga Justus Daniel was born on April 6, 1956, in Makun, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. His parents were Reverend Adebola Daniel, a respected clergyman, and Madam Olaitan Daniel, a devout Christian and community leader. Growing up in a disciplined and faith-filled household significantly shaped his early values and work ethic. His formative years were spent navigating the vibrant cultural landscape of Sagamu, a major town in Ogun State, which instilled in him a deep connection to his Yoruba heritage and a keen understanding of local community needs. His early education laid the groundwork for his later academic and professional pursuits, emphasizing diligence and intellectual curiosity.
Education
Daniel's educational journey began at the Baptist Boys High School in Abeokuta, a prestigious institution known for nurturing future leaders. He then proceeded to the Federal Government College, Odogbolu, where he completed his secondary education, excelling in science subjects. His passion for engineering led him to the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1978, graduating with honors. Demonstrating an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he continued his studies at the same university, obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Structural Engineering in 1980. Not content with purely technical expertise, Daniel further broadened his academic horizons by pursuing an Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the renowned Lagos Business School. This diverse educational background equipped him with a unique blend of technical proficiency, strategic thinking, and managerial acumen, which proved invaluable in his subsequent career in both the private and public sectors.
Career
Gbenga Daniel's professional career commenced as a lecturer at the School of Engineering, Lagos State Polytechnic, where he imparted knowledge to aspiring engineers. However, his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to venture into the private sector. In 1983, he founded Kresta Laurel Limited, a pioneering engineering company specializing in lifts, escalators, and material handling equipment. Under his leadership as Chief Executive Officer, Kresta Laurel grew into a market leader, expanding its operations across Nigeria and West Africa. His business acumen was further demonstrated through the establishment of other successful enterprises, including Dataflex Nigeria Limited, an IT and communications company, and Rotopower Nigeria Limited, focused on power solutions. These ventures not only created numerous jobs but also contributed significantly to Nigeria's industrial development.
His foray into politics began with his successful bid for the governorship of Ogun State in 2003 under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He served two consecutive terms, from May 29, 2003, to May 29, 2011. During his tenure, he initiated and executed numerous transformative projects, focusing on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. After his governorship, Daniel remained an influential figure in Nigerian politics. In 2017, he contested for the National Chairmanship of the PDP. In 2019, he served as the Director-General of the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organization. In 2021, he made a strategic move, defecting from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a desire to align with the progressive agenda at the national level. In the 2023 general elections, Gbenga Daniel successfully contested and was elected as the Senator representing the Ogun East Senatorial District, a position he currently holds, continuing his legacy of public service at the national legislative level.
Major Achievements
As Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel's administration was marked by unprecedented development across various sectors. His major achievements include:
- Infrastructural Development: His government embarked on an aggressive road construction and rehabilitation program, including the Sagamu-Benin Expressway, the Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange Road, and numerous intra-city and rural roads, significantly improving connectivity and economic activity within the state.
- Educational Reforms: He established the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, the first specialized university of education in Nigeria, aimed at producing qualified teachers. He also founded the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute (GIPI) in Oni, providing vocational and technical training to youths. His administration revitalized the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to improve primary and secondary education standards.
- Healthcare Initiatives: Daniel introduced free healthcare services for children under five and adults above 60, alongside the construction and renovation of several general hospitals and primary healthcare centers across the state, expanding access to quality medical care.
- Youth Empowerment: He launched the Ogun State Employment Generation Programme (OGEGEP), which trained and empowered thousands of young people in various vocations, significantly reducing youth unemployment.
- Investment Promotion: His administration created an enabling environment for investors, leading to the establishment of the Gateway Free Trade Zone and attracting significant local and foreign direct investment into the state.
- Rural Electrification and Water Supply: Numerous rural communities were connected to the national grid, and access to potable water was significantly improved through new boreholes and water schemes.
Personal Life
Gbenga Daniel is happily married to Her Excellency, Yeye Olufunke Daniel. Their marriage is blessed with several children who have pursued various professional paths. Despite his demanding public life, Daniel maintains a close-knit family, often crediting his wife as a pillar of support throughout his career. He is known for his philanthropic endeavors and his commitment to community development, often contributing to educational and religious institutions. His personal interests include reading, intellectual discourse, and engaging in community-based initiatives.
Legacy
Gbenga Daniel's legacy is primarily defined by his transformative leadership as Governor of Ogun State. He is widely credited with modernizing the state's infrastructure, particularly its road network, and significantly advancing its educational landscape through the establishment of specialized institutions. His administration's focus on human capital development and creating an investor-friendly environment laid a solid foundation for future growth. While his political career has seen its share of controversies, including post-governorship allegations that he was ultimately acquitted of, his supporters remember him as a visionary leader who brought unprecedented development to Ogun State. As a serving Senator, he continues to champion legislative initiatives aimed at national progress, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a testament to his enduring commitment to public service and the development of his homeland.