When you think of a woman who wears many hats with grace, resilience, and purpose, one name quickly comes to mind: Dr. (Chief) Yeye Afolashade Shona Aluko.
Dr. Afolashade is an Offa-born educationist, entrepreneur and humanitarian whose influence is felt across Nigeria.
Born in Kaduna over five decades ago, she began her early studies at Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, later moved to the Federal College of Education in Kabuga, Kano, and earned a degree in Education Management at Ogun State University, now Olabisi Onabanjo University.
She started her career as a teacher, known for instilling knowledge and discipline in her students.
Her passion for child development led her to establish DLA Children Playground Equipment and Toys Limited, which supplies schools with playground facilities and learning aids.
Through the company, she has worked with the Universal Basic Education Commission and state education boards to improve learning environments for children.
She has also invested in amusement parks and food manufacturing, building a reputation as a determined entrepreneur who insists on quality and hard work.
Her achievements have brought her recognition within and outside Nigeria.
She has received awards such as the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria Sterling Award (2023), the Oodua Special Recognition Award (2024), and the Philanthropist of the Year Award from the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ibadan Chapel.
She also holds honorary doctorate degrees from the European-American University and Kingdom Life University, Florida, USA.
In addition to her business career, she supports women and youths through mentoring and scholarships.
In 2023, she was appointed National Matron of the Association of Female Artisans, Nigeria, where she continues to promote women’s contributions to national development.
Her efforts have now earned her another honour. On 19 October 2025, she will be formally installed as the Yeye Bobajiroro of the Oodua in Ile-Ife by His Royal Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife.
The recognition is not only for her personal achievements but also for His Royal Majesty, the Olofa of Offa Kingdom, Oba Muftau Muhammed Gbadamosi Esuwoye II Ajagungbade I, and for the people of Offa Kingdom and Ibololand.
Dr. Afolashade Shona Aluko remains a proud daughter of Offa, carrying the name of her community with distinction in Nigeria and beyond.
