Chief Suarau Olayiwola Alani Bankole (born September 17, 1941) is a distinguished Egba businessman, industrialist, and traditional chieftain from Ogun State, Nigeria.
Widely respected in both the corporate and traditional spheres, he has played a significant role in Nigeria’s private-sector development while also occupying highly regarded positions within the Egba traditional hierarchy.
Early Life and Education
Chief Bankole was born into an Egba family in Abeokuta, a city renowned for producing many of Nigeria’s foremost intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and national leaders.
He received his secondary education at the prestigious Baptist Boys’ High School (BBHS), Abeokuta, one of the oldest and most influential secondary schools in Nigeria. The discipline, leadership training, and strong alumni culture of BBHS helped shape his outlook on enterprise, service, and community responsibility.
Business Career and Entrepreneurship
Chief Bankole built a formidable reputation in Nigerian business through decades of entrepreneurial activity and corporate leadership. He is best known for his association with the manufacturing and industrial sector, having served as Chairman of West African Aluminum Products Plc (WAPCO/WAAPCO), a company that became prominent in the aluminum and building materials industry.
Under his leadership, the company strengthened its corporate governance profile and expanded its relevance within Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
In addition to his role in manufacturing, Chief Bankole is the founder of Freight Agencies Nigeria Ltd, an indigenous freight forwarding and logistics company established at a time when the sector was largely dominated by foreign interests.
The company is often regarded as one of the pioneering Nigerian-owned freight agencies, contributing to the growth of local capacity in shipping, customs clearing, and international trade facilitation.
Through these ventures, Chief Bankole became known for encouraging indigenous participation in commerce, mentoring younger entrepreneurs, and demonstrating that Nigerian-owned companies could compete effectively in complex and capital-intensive sectors.
Traditional Titles and Cultural Role
Beyond business, Chief Bankole occupies an eminent place in Egba traditional society. He holds the respected titles of Oluwo of Iporo Ake and Apena of Egbaland, positions that place him close to the heart of Egba traditional governance and cultural life. These titles are not merely honorary; they come with responsibilities related to community leadership, conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and advisory roles within the Egba traditional council.
His standing as a traditional chief reflects the trust reposed in him by the Egba people and underscores the long-standing Yoruba tradition of recognizing individuals who have achieved distinction and rendered service to their communities.
Personal Life and Family
Chief Bankole was married to Chief (Mrs.) Atinuke Bankole, who held the prestigious title of Ekerin Iyalode of Egbaland, a significant position within the women’s traditional leadership structure. Their union further reinforced the family’s prominence within Egba society.
He is the father of Dimeji Bankole, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria (2007–2011), one of the highest legislative offices in the country. Through his family, Chief Bankole’s influence has extended into national political life, complementing his achievements in business and tradition.
Legacy and Significance
Chief Suarau Olayiwola Alani Bankole represents a generation of Nigerian businessmen who combined entrepreneurship with cultural rootedness and public relevance. His legacy lies in: Advancing indigenous participation in industry and logistics, Providing corporate leadership in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, Upholding and strengthening Egba traditional institutions, Raising a family that has contributed to national public life.
He remains a notable example of the intersection between commerce, culture, and leadership in modern Nigerian history.
