Final Burial Ceremony for Alhaji Jimoh Atanda Lawal, Advertising Pioneer, Held Today in Lagos
The final burial ceremony for Alhaji Jimoh Atanda Lawal, the esteemed Aare Mayegun of Gbagura Land in Abeokuta and co-founder of Nigeria's leading out-of-home advertising agency, Abiok Publicity Limited, is scheduled to be held today in Lagos. This solemn event will take place at the LTV 8 Blue Roof, located at Plot 1, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Lagos, commencing at 11:00 a.m. The ceremony marks the culmination of mourning for a figure who significantly impacted Nigeria's advertising industry and community development.
Life and Legacy of a Visionary Leader
Alhaji Jimoh Atanda Lawal passed away on February 16, 2026, and was laid to rest on February 17, 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites. An 8th day Fidau prayer was conducted on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at his residence in Mongoro, Agege, Lagos, reflecting his deep-rooted faith and the respect he commanded among peers and family. Born on June 15, 1943, in Pataleri Village, Wasimi, Ogun State, Lawal's journey from a carpentry apprentice to a revered advertising practitioner and philanthropist is a powerful testament to his discipline, resilience, and unwavering belief in human potential.
He co-founded Abiok Publicity Limited in 1976, a move that revolutionized the outdoor advertising media landscape in Nigeria. His career began at West African Publicity Limited, later known as Afromedia Nigeria Limited, where his dedication, market intelligence, and creativity caught the attention of industry leaders. In 1963, he was recruited by Pan Publicity Limited and was subsequently transferred to their Kano office in 1964 to establish their northern region office, playing a pivotal role in expanding the company's market presence in northern Nigeria.
Contributions to Business and Community
Beyond advertising, Lawal was a co-founder of Jimmy Kay Ventures, a real estate and hospitality business, and Ogun News Today, a community-based newspaper in Ogun State, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to local development. As a registered member of the Advertising Practitioner Council of Nigeria (APCON), he was actively involved in professional circles, including memberships in various clubs such as the Abeokuta Sports Club, Egba Notable Club, Lagos Prestige Brothers, and Top Social Club of Mushin, Lagos.
His contributions to community development were widely recognized, earning him several traditional titles. A devout Muslim, Lawal performed the Holy Pilgrimage in 1981 and was known as the Asiwaju Adeen of Mafoluku Central Mosque, actively supporting the propagation of Islamic ideals. He was celebrated for his kindness, humility, honesty, and principled nature, often described as a teacher of humanity and a great father to his children and grandchildren.
Remembering an Exemplary Life
Lawal's exemplary life left an indelible mark on the advertising industry, religion, humanity, and community development. His legacy of innovation, loyalty, and humanitarian efforts will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. The final burial ceremony today serves as a moment to honor his enduring impact and celebrate a life dedicated to higher virtues and service to others.
