* Buhari mourns

Founder of new generation bank, FCMB, Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun, is dead.

According to reports, Balogun reportedly died in London Friday morning at the age of 89.

He was Otunba Tunwase of Ijebuland before his death.

As a ranking Ijebu Chief, his death will, however, only be officially announced in line with tradition.

Balogun who pioneered investment banking as well as indigenous financial entrepreneurship in Nigeria, was 89 years old àt his last birthday.

Buhari mourns

President Muhammadu Buhari says he shares in the grief of the business community, particularly banking and investment sector, over the passing of an illustrious citizen, Chief Michael “Subomi” Balogun, 89.

The President, in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina on Friday in Abuja, condoled with family members, friends, and associates of the revered businessman.

He noted that Balogun’s legacy of kindness and charity stretched into many homes, institutions, and communities, touching lives through education, health, and multiple empowerment opportunities.

Buhari affirmed that Balogun, ”through foresight, wisdom, and hard work, lived ahead of his time, by starting the First City Merchant Bank in 1983, which grew over the years, with branches across the country, and working assiduously for the take-off and success of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.”

The President noted the outpouring of testimonies on the life and times of the legendary banker, especially his towering influence in grooming many talented leaders in the sector, who had since set up their investment platforms, within and outside the country.

President Buhari prayed that God would receive the soul of the departed, and comfort all his loved ones.

Credit: Vanguard