Gbenga Daniel: A Dual Pillar of Business and Politics Turns 70

Justus Olugbenga Daniel has successfully navigated both the corporate and political arenas, achieving prominence in each. He began his career as a successful entrepreneur, founding Kresta Laurel at age 34, a company that became a leader in elevators and escalators and significantly contributed to Nigeria's technological and economic progress. He later transitioned into politics, serving two terms as the Governor of Ogun State from 2003 to 2011 and subsequently being elected as the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly in 2023.

Daniel's journey into public service was marked by a methodical commitment to societal contribution, solidified through the establishment of the Gateway Front Foundation (GFF). This initiative, aimed at assisting the less privileged, provided a platform that eventually propelled him to high political office. His motivation to serve and give back was a driving force throughout his career.

During his governorship, Daniel championed a people-centric administration, ensuring his policies and programs were characterized by compassion and a focus on the needs of the masses. The positive impact of his governance remains evident across Ogun State, cementing his status as a well-regarded leader among his people. While his political career as governor and senator is well-documented, including the controversies and opposition he faced, his persona extends beyond that of a political figure.

Known for his work ethic and meticulous attention to detail, Daniel brought a business-like approach to governance. He was deeply involved in the details of his administration, consistently engaging with the populace. His tenure saw extensive development across Ogun State, focusing on both infrastructure and human capital. He prioritized understanding the needs of the people, improving their living conditions, and ensuring development projects were implemented with consideration for those affected.

Daniel believed that large-scale development projects should not displace communities without providing viable alternatives, a principle he demonstrated during the construction of the Abeokuta-Siun-Sagamu Expressway in 2004. The road was transformed into a dual carriageway with comprehensive street lighting and landscaping. Critically, new homes were built for villagers whose properties were within the project's right-of-way before their original structures were demolished.

The villagers not only received new homes but also had utilities like water and electricity installed, all provided by the government free of charge. The construction was managed by the Ogun State Road Management Agency (OGROMA), an entity established by Daniel to build local capacity and create employment. These red brick houses are still visible along the highway, a testament to his approach.

The impact of Daniel's eight years in office is enduring, visible in the state's landscape and in the hearts of its citizens. He is recognized for his equitable distribution of projects across all senatorial districts and divisions. Significant projects in Egbaland, the state capital's region, include the development of a new business district, the OPIC Twin Tower, and the redesign of Lalubu Road into a six-lane thoroughfare. Other legacies include the Abeokuta-Siun Expressway, the Olumo Rock refurbishment, housing estates, the MKO Abiola International Stadium, improvements at the State Hospital Ijaiye, and the State Secretariat, among others. The Olabisi Onabanjo University of Technology campus at Ibogun and the Laderin Workers Estate are also notable contributions.

In Yewaland, his administration established a School of Nursing in Ilaro, built an international standard stadium, and developed a functional Free Trade Zone in Igbesa, the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone, which has created numerous employment opportunities. Yewaland also benefited from an OOU campus and an ICT Polytechnic.

The Ijebus and Remos also saw substantial development, including the Gateway International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, which has hosted international events. The Tai Solarin University of Education, the first of its kind in Nigeria, and an ICT Polytechnic in Ijebu Igbo were established. Projects like the multi- billion naira LNG Project at Olokola Free Trade Zone, though stalled due to political factors, and a stadium in Remo, along with the country's best NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp and an ICT Polytechnic in Saapade, are credited to his administration. He also initiated plans for the Ogun State Cargo Airport.

The establishment of numerous higher education institutions was part of a strategic focus on human capital development. The Human Capital Development (HUCAP) initiative supported indigenes pursuing advanced studies abroad, with many returning to contribute to national development.

The business-friendly environment fostered by Daniel's administration attracted significant investment, leading to job creation and economic expansion. The establishment of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corp (TRACE) is another key contribution that remains in place today. Under his leadership, Ogun State became a leading investment destination in Nigeria.

Despite facing political opposition and schemes to undermine his government, particularly during his second term, Daniel persevered. He navigated legal challenges and emerged unscathed, receiving a clean bill of health from the courts.

His resilience was evident when he was appointed Director General for Atiku Abubakar's 2018 presidential campaign for the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Daniel successfully led the campaign to secure the PDP presidential ticket at the primaries in Port Harcourt.

In February 2021, Daniel joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was subsequently elected Senator for Ogun East. In the Senate, his significant achievement has been the sponsorship and successful passage of the South-West Development Commission Bill (SB 102), which received Presidential Assent on March 25, 2025, establishing a functional commission to secure federal funding for regional development.

The South-West Development Commission is a major boost for the region, providing federal resources for infrastructure and erosion control. Daniel's experience was crucial in advancing this large-scale regional initiative.

His senatorial efforts have also included facilitating projects such as the Abigi Naval Base and road constructions in Simawa, demonstrating a commitment to both social welfare ("stomach infrastructure") and physical development.

As Senator, Daniel has actively provided dividends of democracy to his constituents. His projects include transformer distribution in various local government areas, installation of solar lights, rehabilitation of roads in Ijebu Ode and Sagamu, and reconstruction of several key roads. These initiatives highlight his ongoing efforts to deliver tangible benefits.

Furthermore, through the establishment of the Political Academy (POLA), Daniel contributes to strengthening democracy by training emerging political leaders and fostering constructive discourse for Nigeria's advancement.

Gbenga Daniel's legacy of good governance, combined with compassion, continues to resonate throughout Ogun State and beyond. His contributions as Governor and now as Senator underscore his role as a representative of his people and a significant figure in Nigeria.

We celebrate Otunba Justus Gbenga Daniel, a distinguished businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, administrator, and patriot, on his 70th birthday. He served as Governor of Ogun State from 2003 to 2011 and is currently the Senator representing Ogun East.

Adegbenro Adebanjo, who served as Senior Special Assistant, Public Communications and later Chief Press Secretary under Otunba Gbenga Daniel from 2004 to 2011, contributed this piece.