By Amofokhai Williams
Billionaire businessman, Olorogun Oskar Eyovbirere Ibru has died at the age of 67 after a brief illness, according to family statement.
The Alarmee reports that Born on 11 August 1958, Oskar Ibru was the eldest son of the late industrialist Michael Ibru, founder of the Ibru Organisation.
He attended Igbobi College before pursuing higher education in the United States, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College and later a master’s degree from Atlanta University Graduate School of Business.
Returning to Nigeria in 1983, Ibru began his career in the media sector, joining The Guardian as a management trainee, before transitioning into the family business.
Over time, he rose through the ranks of the Ibru Organisation, eventually becoming chairman and CEO, overseeing a sprawling conglomerate with interests in shipping, oil & gas, real estate, and commerce.
Beyond business, Ibru was known for his philanthropic efforts, notably through the Dream Child Foundation, which used music and arts to empower children across Africa.
In recognition of his public contributions, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Igbinedion University in 2017.
He also held the chieftaincy title Otunba Boyejo of Ijebu Kingdom.
He was married to Wanda Ibru, an American-born curator and museum owner, and together they had three children: Makashe Ibru-Awogboro, Chris Ibru, and Nenesi Ibru-Okeke.
Reports confirm that Ibru died “after a brief illness,” but the family has not released further details about the nature or cause of his ailment.
The news has elicited widespread sentiment across Nigeria’s corporate, media, and social circles.
Publisher Dele Momodu described Ibru as “an extremely friendly gentleman and a socialite per excellence” in an Instagram tribute.
Meanwhile, media outlets are closely watching for announcements regarding funeral arrangements, which are expected soon.
His passing comes less than a decade after the death of his father, Michael Ibru, in 2016, adding another mournful chapter to one of Nigeria’s most prominent business dynasties.
