The Incident and Its Aftermath

Sources revealed that Folorunsho Alakija was traveling with her husband, Modupe Alakija, Chairman of Famfa Oil, when the near air mishap occurred. The incident reportedly caused her blood pressure to rise sharply, leading to complications with her eyesight. Despite purchasing a new jet to avoid similar incidents, her vision continued to deteriorate until she eventually lost her sight completely.

“She had a near air mishap with her husband on board, and her blood pressure reportedly shot up, affecting her eyes. She has been having eyesight issues, but instead of treating the illness, she chose to start a church to help her. Now she can’t see,” a source disclosed.

Folorunsho Alakija’s Remarkable Journey

Folorunsho Alakija is a name synonymous with success, resilience, and philanthropy. She is the founder of Famfa Oil, a Nigerian company with a significant stake in OML 127, a highly lucrative oil block in the Agbami deep-water oilfield. As of 2020, Forbes estimated her net worth at $1 billion, making her one of Africa’s richest women.

In 2015, Forbes ranked her as the 87th most powerful woman in the world, and she was one of only two African women featured on Forbes’ list of Africa’s wealthiest individuals. Beyond her business achievements, Alakija is also a dedicated philanthropist and spiritual leader. In 2004, she started a small fellowship in her home, which later grew into the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International. She was ordained as an apostle on her 69th birthday.

Recent Public Appearance

Despite her health challenges, Folorunsho Alakija has remained active in public life. She recently attended the book launch of former Nigerian military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) on February 20, 2025. The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, was attended by Nigeria’s political, business, and intellectual elite. Alakija praised IBB’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, stating, “May this book inspire dialogue, understanding, and a deeper appreciation of not just your journey but our nation’s journey.”

The launch also served as a fundraiser for the IBB Presidential Library Foundation, raising about N17.5 billion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What caused Folorunsho Alakija’s loss of eyesight?

Folorunsho Alakija’s eyesight issues began after a near air mishap caused a spike in her blood pressure, leading to complications that eventually resulted in complete blindness.

2. What is Folorunsho Alakija’s net worth?

As of 2020, Forbes estimated her net worth at $1 billion, making her one of Africa’s richest women.

3. What is Famfa Oil?

Famfa Oil is a Nigerian company founded by Folorunsho Alakija, with a major stake in OML 127, a lucrative oil block in the Agbami deep-water oilfield.

4. What is the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International?

It is a ministry founded by Folorunsho Alakija in 2004, which started as a small fellowship in her home and has since grown into a significant spiritual organization.

5. Did Folorunsho Alakija seek medical treatment for her eyesight?

According to sources, she chose to focus on her ministry rather than seeking medical treatment, which may have contributed to the worsening of her condition.

6. What was Folorunsho Alakija’s role at the IBB book launch?

She attended the launch of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, and delivered a speech praising the book and its significance.

7. How has Folorunsho Alakija contributed to philanthropy?

Through her ministry and personal initiatives, Alakija has supported various charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and empowerment programs.

8. What is Folorunsho Alakija’s legacy?

She is celebrated as a trailblazer in business, a dedicated philanthropist, and a spiritual leader who has inspired millions across Africa and beyond.

Conclusion

Folorunsho Alakija’s loss of eyesight is a poignant moment in the life of a woman who has achieved remarkable success against all odds. From building a billion-dollar empire to dedicating her life to philanthropy and spiritual leadership, Alakija’s legacy is one of resilience, faith, and impact. While her health challenges are a reminder of her humanity, her contributions to business, society, and spirituality will continue to inspire generations to come. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and the enduring spirit of a true pioneer.