Dr. Olu Agunloye is a key leader in Nigeria’s public service. He mixes science skills with strong management in schools, business, and government. Everyone calls him “DOA.” He changed road safety through the Federal Road Safety Commission and helped bring digital systems to government. People still respect his work even with his current court case about a big power project.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Dr. Olu Agunloye |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Erusu-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Ondo State |
| Partner/Spouse | Dr. Abimbola Agunloye |
| Children | Four (4) children |
| Occupations | Physicist; University Lecturer; Industrialist; Administrator; Government Minister; Politician |
| Net Worth | Approximately $5 Million USD |
Early Life and Education
Born September 16, 1948, in Erusu-Akoko, Ondo State, Agunloye hails from royal lineages connected to Owo and Akure kingdoms. As great-grandson of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Elewu Okun, and from the Ojomo Uro royal family, he later earned titles like Omoluka of Erusu and Oluomo of Akoko.
He excelled at Ondo Boys High School (1961–1965) with top grades, then studied Physics at the University of Ibadan (1966–1970), graduating with Second Class Upper honors as a University Scholar. He pursued his Ph.D. in Physics across the University of Ibadan and University of Reading, UK, completing it in 1974. In 1976, he earned a Master’s in Applied Geophysics from MIT while lecturing, showcasing his drive for both scholarship and national impact.
Career
Agunloye’s path unfolds across academia, entrepreneurship, and public office.
Academic Foundations (1974–1981)
He lectured in Physics at the University of Ibadan from 1974 to 1981, researching geophysics. As a Visiting Scientist at MIT (1979–1980), he gained global recognition.
Entrepreneurial Ventures (1981–1987)
Launching Faagol Instruments Limited, he built a geophysical and instrumentation firm, bridging science and commerce.
Public Service Legacy (1988–2004+)
As pioneer Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (1988–1994), he made the agency Nigeria’s most efficient. Key reforms included the national driver’s license, uniform vehicle plates, National Motor Vehicle Administration, and updated Highway Code.
Later roles encompassed CEO of Don Langford and Company, Special Assistant to the Attorney General and Power Minister, Minister of State for Defence (Navy) (2002–2003), and Minister of Power and Steel (2002–2003). He advanced eGovernment as Executive Vice-Chairman of National eGovernment Strategies and briefly led the Social Democratic Party as Acting Chairman.
Personal Life
He is married to Dr. Abimbola Agunloye, who shares his exact birth date, the couple marked their 70th birthdays together in 2018. They have four children and prioritize philanthropy over extravagance. That year, they founded the AG Charitable Trust For Empowerment, funding scholarships, water projects, and school upgrades.
Known for humility and community focus, they champion rural women’s advancement and maintain strong Christian commitments.
Controversy
Agunloye faces charges over the $6 billion Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project from his Power Ministry tenure. The EFCC accuses him of awarding the contract to Sunrise Power in 2003 without approval, allegedly receiving payments years later. Trial revelations indicate prior presidential approvals and budget allocations predated his role. Proceedings continue in Abuja’s Federal High Court as of early 2026.
Net Worth
His wealth, built from academia, business, and public service, estimates at $5 million USD.
