From an early age, Alhaji Olatinwo showed exceptional brilliance and discipline. He began his formal education at the Christ African Church Primary School, Ogidiri, Offa, where his passion for learning was evident. His academic journey continued at the prestigious Offa Grammar School (OGS), one of the foremost secondary schools in Northern Nigeria. There, he distinguished himself as an outstanding student, particularly in Mathematics, a subject that shaped his analytical and business mindset.
Despite his success in Western
education, he maintained a deep respect for Islamic knowledge. Having studied
the Qur’an at the famous Oja-Oba Qur’anic School, he continued to
advance in Islamic studies, embodying the perfect balance between Western and
Islamic education that defined many of Offa’s great leaders.
Guided by an enterprising spirit,
the young T.A. Olatinwo ventured into the world of commerce at an early age.
His career began with the renowned multinational trading company SCOA,
where he was exposed to international business practices and vast opportunities
in trade and industry.
Armed with experience, vision,
and determination, he founded his own business — T.A. Olatinwo & Sons
Ltd., which grew into a reputable enterprise and a major distributor for
several manufacturing companies both within and outside Nigeria. His business
acumen not only brought prosperity to his family but also provided employment
and mentorship opportunities to many young Nigerians who worked under his
guidance.
A deeply spiritual man, Alhaji
Olatinwo dedicated much of his life to Islamic service and community
development. In memory of his father, he built the Alhaji Aliyu Onaolapo
Olatinwo Memorial Mosque, a symbol of faith, family honor, and devotion to
Allah. His philanthropic spirit extended to the educational and health sectors
— he donated a four-classroom block to Olalomi Comprehensive College,
Offa, and a diesel-powered generator to the Kwara State
Specialist Hospital to support essential medical services.
His passion for educational
advancement also drove him to support the establishment of Summit
University, Offa, located along the Ira Road axis — an institution that
stands today as a testament to his vision for an educated and morally upright
society.
Alhaji Olatinwo’s influence
transcended business and philanthropy. He was an active and respected member of
the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, where his leadership and
generosity earned him great admiration. His pivotal role in the modernization
of the Offa Central Mosque, as well as his financial contributions to the
growth of Ansar-ud-Deen Colleges and Primary Schools across the Northern
States Council (NSC), highlighted his lifelong dedication to faith-based
education.
In recognition of his leadership,
he was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Central Mosque in 1966
and later elected Chairman of the Northern States Council of the
Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. Until his passing, he served as the National
Deputy President of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society Worldwide and a Board
Member of Summit University, Offa.
A loving husband, father, and
mentor, Alhaji T.A. Olatinwo lived a disciplined life guided by faith,
humility, and family values. He performed the Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca and
Medina in 1964 alongside his elder brother, Alhaji Abdulwaheed Olatinwo,
a journey that further deepened his devotion to Islam.
He was known for his uprightness,
his compassion for the less privileged, and his strong belief in moral
upbringing. He instilled the fear of God, discipline, and honesty
in his children and those around him — qualities that have continued to define
his lineage.
For his selfless contributions to
education and community growth, Alhaji Olatinwo received several prestigious
awards, including:
- The Merit Award from the Offa Grammar
School Old Students Association (OGSOSA).
- An Honorary Fellowship in Business Administration
from the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, awarded by the institution’s
staff in recognition of his business leadership and mentorship.
Alhaji Olatinwo was blessed with
two wives and many accomplished children who have upheld his legacy of
excellence and service to humanity. Among them are:
- Dr. Mufutau Olatinwo – Former Rector, Federal
Polytechnic, Offa.
- Professor Abdulwaheed Olatinwo – Chief Medical
Director, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH).
- Architect Fatai Olatinwo – CEO, Hengee Resort.
- Alhaji Issa Olatinwo – Senior Officer,
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
His legacy lives on through his
children, grandchildren, and the numerous lives he touched in Offa and beyond.
Late Alhaji Tiamiyu Adebisi
Olatinwo was not just a successful businessman — he was a pillar of faith, a
philanthropist, a community leader, and a role model. His life reminds us
that true greatness lies in service to God, dedication to family, and
contribution to humanity.
