Otunba Gbenga Daniel is a well-known Nigerian politician and entrepreneur who governed Ogun State between 2003 and 2011. He is celebrated for his notable efforts in advancing infrastructure, education, and economic progress within Ogun State, as well as his influential role in national politics.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Otunba Gbenga Daniel |
| Date of Birth | April 6, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Ibadan, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Ogun State, Nigeria |
| Partner | Olufunke Daniel |
| Children | N/A |
| Occupations | Politician, Mechanical Engineer, Entrepreneur |
| Political Party | Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressive Congress (APC) – currently |
| Net Worth | Estimated at around 4.47 billion Nigerian Naira (approximately $2.9 million USD as of 2025) |
Early Life and Education
Born on April 6, 1956, in Ibadan, Nigeria, Gbenga Daniel trained as a mechanical engineer. He attended Baptist Boys’ High School and proceeded to pursue higher education in engineering. His father, an evangelist who travelled extensively, likely shaped Daniel’s broad worldview from an early age.
Career
Following his National Youth Service, Daniel worked in the metal fabrication industry, becoming Deputy Managing Director of H.F. Schroeder (WA) Limited at 32—the first African to hold that role there.
In 1990, he established Kresta Laurel Ltd, specializing in heavy machinery and electro-mechanical engineering, along with founding the Conference Hotels group in various Nigerian cities.
His political journey began with the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and evolved through major leadership in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Gbenga Daniel served as Governor of Ogun State from 2003 to 2011, where he initiated landmark infrastructure projects including road expansions, housing developments, and electrification programs.
He attracted major industries to the state, established Nigeria’s first University of Education, and enhanced tourism by developing sites like Olumo Rock.
His administration also focused on youth empowerment through job creation and skills training. He also played a key part in political campaigns, notably supporting President Goodluck Jonathan’s efforts in the Southwest.
In 2017, Daniel mounted a widely respected campaign for the National Chairman position of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), touring all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to advocate for party renewal.
Despite a strong campaign, he withdrew on the convention day following a leadership decision to zone the position to the South-South.
In 2018, he was appointed Director-General of Atiku Abubakar’s presidential campaign organization, successfully steering Atiku to victory in the PDP presidential primary, defying pre-election predictions.
After stepping back from politics for two years, Daniel joined the All Progressive Congress (APC) in February 2021, emphasizing national unity and development as his political aims.
Soon after, he was appointed by the APC’s Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee to lead the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee and serve on the contact/strategy sub-committee.
In August 2023, Gbenga Daniel was named chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy, marking his continued active role in Nigeria’s governance and politics.
Personal Life
Gbenga Daniel is married to Olufunke Daniel, who herself holds a chieftaincy title. Together, they engage in philanthropic work including providing scholarships and healthcare support. Information about their children remains private.
Gbenga Daniel Net Worth
Declared in 2007, his net worth was around 4.47 billion Nigerian Naira ($2.9 million USD), incorporating his business ventures and assets accumulated before and during his political career.
Philanthropy
Gbenga Daniel’s philanthropy includes:
- In 2002, together with his wife Olufunke Daniel, he founded the Gateway Front Foundation (GFF), a nonprofit focused on empowering lower and middle-class residents of Ogun State.
- The foundation provides scholarships for Ogun State indigenes in Nigerian tertiary institutions, donates library equipment to public schools, and distributes empowerment packages.
- GFF also offers free eye surgeries and medical treatment to the public.
- Daniel launched a food security and humanitarian funding initiative through GFF supporting vulnerable households in Ogun East Senatorial District, including digital distribution of aid via the GFF Loyalty ATM Card.
- After his governorship, he established the Political Leadership Academy (POLA), a training institute developing youth and emerging leaders in Nigeria.
Chieftaincy Titles
- Otunba Adeoti of Omu
- Otunba Obalofin of Ijebuland (connected to his maternal heritage)
- Otunba of Egba and Ijebu clans
- Baba Oba of Oru-Ijebu
- Aroludotun, among over 50 other traditional titles
Awards and Honors
- Named among Nigeria’s 100 Most Successful Businessmen (1993)
- MKO Abiola Leadership Prize (2004)
- Africa Leadership Prize for Best Performing Governor (2003–2004)
- City People Magazine’s Best Performing Governor (2003–2004)
- Man of the Year by the American Biographical Institute (2004)
- Multiple accolades for governance, education, and entrepreneurship
- Received honorary doctorates (D.Sc, D.Agric, DDA) from Nigerian institutions
- Fellowships with Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Nigerian Society of Engineering, Nigerian Institute of Management, and Nigerian Institute of Directors
- Special Service Award from the Nigerian Armed Forces (2025)
Publications
- Daniel in Lion’s Den – his memoirs
- Otunba Gbenga Daniel: The Man, His World, His Visions
- Acts of Daniel (Volumes 1 and 2)
- Ogun State Political Economy
- Development Profile of Ogun State
Gbenga Daniel continues to be a key figure in Nigerian politics and business, noted for leadership, development initiatives, and community service.
