Oladele Adanri is not a household name in Nigerian politics, especially at his community level, but his story is one that captures the spirit of service, loyalty, and determination that often goes unnoticed behind the political stage. From the small community of Ikota in Ifedore Local Government of Ondo State, Adanri has built a life that straddles both the diaspora and his homeland, one shaped by education, professional discipline, and an unwavering commitment to helping people. His path into politics, he insists, is not about titles or self-promotion, but about service.
Born and raised in Ondo State, Adanri’s academic and professional background reflects a man who has continually sought knowledge in order to serve better. He began with a National Diploma in Accounting from Ondo State Polytechnic, Owo, before moving to the United Kingdom, where he expanded his scope into technology, earning a Diploma in Webmaster Technology from the British Institute of Technology and E-Commerce. He later pursued a degree in Information Technology and E-Commerce at the University of East London and followed this up with Business Management and Leadership at Coventry University. His academic journey culminated in a master’s degree in Mental Health Nursing at Southbank University, London.
Such a varied education mirrors his multi-faceted career and outlook on life. It has given him the grounding to think about governance not only in terms of numbers and structures but also through the lens of human well-being. In politics, it has helped him navigate ideological divides, bringing a perspective that values people above party labels.
Adanri first stepped onto the political scene by rallying diaspora groups to support Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, during his governorship bids in Ondo State. He coordinated campaigns from abroad, providing organisation and resources to push for change at home. In the last election, however, he and his group shifted support to Agboola Ajayi, collapsing their structures in a bid to back a different vision for Ondo. For him, politics is not about permanent loyalty but about who is best placed to deliver. “It is not about the party but about the individual,” he said firmly during a recent interview. “When a candidate has a good plan and the potential to deliver, I will support him.”
This principle has guided his admiration for the Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whom he openly commends as a shining example of what leadership should look like. He described Tunji-Ojo as a man who has given new meaning to his office and added real value to Nigerians through efficiency and innovation. What struck Adanri most were the recent passport reforms that have significantly reduced delays and stress for citizens. He contrasted his frustrating experience years ago, when he spent over six hours at the passport office without success, with his most recent encounter. “I was told to expect my passport within a few days and, to my utmost amazement, it was delivered to my house within five days,” he said, shaking his head at the transformation.
For him, this is not just a bureaucratic improvement but a statement of what governance can achieve when leaders are sincere. “Look at what he is doing,” Adanri said of Tunji-Ojo. “He knew that if he did not join politics, his vision would not materialise. He became part of the decision-making table and he is delivering.”
While he speaks passionately about national politics, Adanri’s heart remains firmly tied to his community in Ikota. Over the years, he has contributed to education by paying tuition fees for children, provided financial support to families during festive periods, and mobilised resources for schools, hospitals, and even the local police. His efforts may seem modest, but they reflect a philosophy of leadership that begins with service, not titles. “Sometimes people approach me to pay tuition fees and I do the little I can. During Christmas I reach out to my people, support the schools and even the hospitals in my community,” he said, his voice softening when talking about home.
Adanri believes the time has come for Nigerian youths to take ownership of politics. In his view, too much has been left in the hands of the older generation, and the cost of apathy is clear. “Our elders have dominated politics for a very long time. If we youths do not get involved now, no one will do it for us,” he said. He acknowledged that many young people shy away from politics because of money or disillusionment, but he insists that real change will only come if they learn the system and participate. “You may have a good vision and good ideas, but if you do not understand the system, your vision will not materialise,” he added.
Despite living abroad for years, Adanri continues to see himself as part of the Nigerian story. He does not consider personal comfort or distance as excuses for disengagement. “God has blessed me, but what about other people there? I believe my role is to give back to my people,” he said. That sense of obligation is what has kept him committed to both community projects and political advocacy, even when it would have been easier to walk away.
Oladele Adanri is part of a generation of Nigerians whose stories are often told in quiet acts rather than loud proclamations. His voice, however, carries the conviction of someone who believes politics can and should be a force for good. By celebrating leaders like Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and calling for youth involvement, he frames himself not just as a political actor but as a messenger for a new approach to governance one rooted in service, sincerity, and the courage to act.
