Professor Yemi Osinbajo is a Nigerian lawyer, professor of law, and politician who served as the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023, under President Muhammadu Buhari. He is widely recognized for his intellect, integrity, and reform-oriented leadership style, particularly in governance, law, and economic development.

Early Life and Education

Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo was born on March 8, 1957, in Lagos State, Nigeria. He hails from Ikenne in Ogun State. He attended Corona Primary School in Lagos and later proceeded to Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, between 1969 and 1975, where he earned distinction as one of the top students.

He studied Law at the University of Lagos, graduating in 1978 with a Second Class Upper Division (LL.B). He then attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Bar in 1979.

In pursuit of further education, Osinbajo obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1980.

Academic and Legal Career

Osinbajo began his academic career as a lecturer at the University of Lagos in 1981. He rose through the ranks to become a professor of Law and Head of the Department of Public Law.

His specialization was in Public Law, Evidence, and Legal Ethics, and he contributed significantly to the development of Nigeria’s legal education system through his research and writings.

He also served as an adviser and consultant to various government agencies, including the United Nations and the World Bank, on legal and judicial reform projects.

Public Service Career

Osinbajo’s first major role in public service came when he was appointed as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State between 1999 and 2007 under Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

During his tenure, he implemented several groundbreaking judicial reforms, including the establishment of the Office of the Public Defender and the Citizens Mediation Centre, both aimed at ensuring access to justice for all Lagos residents, especially the poor.

He was also instrumental in the modernization of the Lagos State Judiciary, improving efficiency, transparency, and independence.

Political Career and Vice Presidency

Yemi Osinbajo joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was nominated as Muhammadu Buhari’s running mate in the 2015 presidential election. They won the election, defeating the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

He was sworn in as Vice President on May 29, 2015, and re-elected for a second term in 2019.

As Vice President, Osinbajo chaired the National Economic Council (NEC), where he played a vital role in driving Nigeria’s economic recovery and social investment programs.

He was instrumental in the design and implementation of the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIP), which included the N-Power scheme, the Conditional Cash Transfer, TraderMoni, and the School Feeding Programme — all aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment.

During Buhari’s medical leave in 2017 and 2018, Osinbajo served as Acting President. His short time as Acting President was marked by decisive leadership, swift reforms, and popular policy decisions, including the sacking of corrupt officials and initiatives to ease business regulations in Nigeria.

Achievements and Contributions

Promoted transparency and accountability in governance through digital and economic reforms.

Strengthened the relationship between the federal and state governments through the NEC.

Advocated for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and innovation as drivers of national growth.

Championed the “Ease of Doing Business” reforms, which helped Nigeria improve its ranking in the World Bank’s Doing Business Index.

Spearheaded legal and judicial reforms in both Lagos State and at the national level.

Personal Life

Professor Osinbajo is married to Dolapo Osinbajo (née Soyode), the granddaughter of the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo. They have three children.

He is an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where he has served as a spiritual leader for many years.

Legacy and Influence

Yemi Osinbajo is admired across Nigeria for his intellect, humility, and commitment to ethical governance. His blend of faith, professionalism, and patriotism has made him one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape.

After leaving office in 2023, he continued to engage in academic, advisory, and philanthropic work, particularly in governance, leadership development, and sustainable economic initiatives in Africa.

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