Ayo Mayomi & Co, a pioneering real estate firm in Lagos, on Monday, March 24, 2025, celebrated a significant milestone—its 35th anniversary. The event, held in high spirits, was attended by a diverse gathering of friends, family, colleagues, and industry professionals.
The occasion served as a moment to reflect on the company’s humble beginnings and its remarkable evolution into a leading real estate entity.
Founded on March 20, 1990, by Dr. Ayodeji Mafikuyomi, the company has experienced tremendous growth. Dr. Mafikuyomi, the Principal Partner of the company and a proud Mogaji in Ibadan, used the event as an opportunity to share the inspiring story behind the company’s journey, beginning from its modest roots to its current status as a real estate powerhouse.
In his address at the occasion, Mogaji Mafikuyomi reflected on the early challenges he faced when he started the company at the age of 23 in a small room in Orile.
“I had no house. My office was my house, and my office was my office. I slept in the office,” he shared with the audience.
He emphasized that hard work and dedication were key to overcoming the challenges, saying, “Hard work and smart work pay off.”
Despite not having a formal background in estate management, Mogaji Mafikuyomi’s resilience and determination led him to build one of Nigeria’s most trusted real estate companies.
“It was Ayo Mayomi & Co that trained me, paid for my school fees, and supported me through my education,” he added.
His story is one of perseverance, with each achievement reinforcing his belief in the power of hard work and focus.
A significant piece of advice that Dr. Mayomi received from his mother has remained a guiding principle throughout his career:
“Real estate business is ‘Owo re, Ewon re’ meaningIf you are honest and conduct your business with integrity, you will prosper. But if you steal, you will face the consequences. This advice, rooted in honesty and discipline, has shaped his approach to both business and life.
Reflecting on his personal growth and the company’s evolution, the Principal Partner also shared valuable advice for the younger generation.
“Young people often dream of becoming billionaires overnight, but success doesn’t happen that way. You must pay your dues,” he said, adding there is reward for hard work, for being focused, and for sticking to your principles.
He went on to outline the company’s impressive expansion, noting its shift from small property management to large-scale developments in locations such as Eko Atlantic and Banana Island.
“We didn’t start with large developments,” he explained.
“We started with helping people find homes, but today, we’ve developed estates and commercial properties that stand as a testament to our growth.”
He also shared personal stories of encounters with clients and partners over the years, including how a landlord once turned him away due to his age but later introduced him to someone who would help shape his future.
“Life is about precepts upon precepts. You have to learn your ABCs before you get to Z,” he stated, underscoring the importance of patience and gradual growth.
The event also highlighted the company’s diversification, including ventures in film production, water plants, and even partnerships with the Dangote Group.
Dr. Mafikuyomi shared exciting news about upcoming projects, including new film productions under Full Moon Infotainment Limited and further expansion into real estate development.
As he closed his speech, the Principal Partner left the audience with an uplifting message: “Your present situation does not define you. No matter how small your beginnings, you have the potential to achieve great things. You can become the next governor, the next leader in your field. Your story can be as big as your dreams.”
The event ended with a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing both the company’s 35 years of success and the many more years of growth ahead.
With gratitude, Mogaji Mafikuyomi thanked everyone who had been part of the company’s journey and reaffirmed his commitment to continue shaping the future of real estate in Nigeria.
The celebration also featured heartfelt speeches from individuals whose lives had been impacted by Dr. Mafikuyomi’s leadership and mentorship, including actor, scriptwriter, and film director, Quadri Quidad, business associate Ms. Olasumbo Funmilayo Eroja, and Mr. Jimoh Sarafa, the site manager at Ayo Mayomi & Co.
Quadri Quidad spoke with deep appreciation for Dr. Mayomi’s influence on his life and career:
“I met Dr. Ayodeji Mafikuyomi by chance, and when we spoke, he said, ‘This is it’ and since then, my life has never been the same. I’ve made movies that have been recognized globally, and it’s part of his influence. I want to take this opportunity to thank him for his impact on my life and journey. We have upcoming projects, and I only hope we can replicate the kind of leadership and mentorship that he has shown.”
Ms. Olasumbo Funmilayo Eroja shared her gratitude for Dr. Mafikuyomi’s mentorship, saying, “What I learned from Mogaji Mafikuyomi is integrity, and that has been my guiding principle in the real estate business. He introduced me to this business, and I’m forever grateful for that.”
Mr. Jimoh Sarafa, the site manager at Ayo Mayomi & Co., expressed his gratitude for the opportunities provided to staff:
“At Ayo Mayomi & Co., our boss always says, ‘Let’s give this person a trial,’ and I deeply appreciate that. Many people who might be rejected elsewhere are given a chance here, and that speaks volumes about his leadership. We’re also working on exciting projects like the Unicorn Water plant in Ibadan, which I believe will become the most sought-after water in the region.”
The event was also marked by the unveiling of the company’s new logo, which symbolizes a fresh chapter in the company’s storied journey. The new logo reflects the company’s evolution, with modern and dynamic elements that showcase Ayo Mayomi & Co.’s commitment to innovation and continued success in real estate development, film production, and other ventures.
