Celebrating The Exit of an ICON
1969 - 2024
Engr Elijah Kayode
Olanrewaju (Eyajuda)
Early Life and Education
Lanre, as he was fondly called by friends and family members, was born into the family of the Late Pa Micheal and Modupe Mary Olanrewaju Ladelu on January 20, 1969, in Garo, Kabo Local Government Area of Kano State. His parents were devout Anglican faithful’s. His educational journey began at the Garo Model Primary School, Garo, Kano State, where he obtained his First School Living Certificate in 1978, before proceeding to St. David Anglican Grammar School Kudeti, Ibadan, where he obtained his SSCE in 1985. He also obtained a HSC programme at Oyo State College of Arts and Science (OSCAS) in Ile-Ife, now Osun State, between 1986 and 1988. This helped him navigate the foundational years of education with enthusiasm and curiosity.
The pursuit of higher education led Lanre to the Federal University of Technology, Akure, where he earned a B.Tech in Electronics. Academic achievements, developing critical thinking skills, and forming lifelong friendships marked his university years. He is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School, the Digital Frontiers Institute in South Africa, and a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer Society.
Family and Personal Life
Elijah Olanrewaju is married to Maria Ife Olanrewaju (nee Olaseinde), a Computer Scientist and a seasoned entrepreneur. Their union is blessed; he was a devoted husband and father who cherished his family and spent quality time with them.
Lanre was also an ordained Minister with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Inspired by the teachings of Bishop Oyedepo, he joined the Living Faith Church in 1998 after relocating to the FCT from Akure. He wears several caps because he served dutifully as a deacon, pastor, and mentor to many. He was also the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for Shiloh 2023 at LFC Goshen.
He was a keen reader who enjoyed books on history, biographies, leadership, and spirituality. He was also a sports enthusiast who loved tennis and badminton. He had an active social media presence where he shared his insights, opinions, and experiences with his followers. Facebook (@eyajuda), where he posted pictures and videos of his work, family, travels, and hobbies.
Career and Life as Chief Executive
With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years, Lanre stands as a visionary leader with a profound impact on the field of Information and Communications Technology. He has held influential positions within various esteemed organisations, playing pivotal roles in the advancement of communication technology and application system development.
Lanre’s journey began with Remsund Nigeria Limited, a pioneering company that introduced the first PC Novell Network in Nigeria. His early contributions were marked by pioneering network implementations and the deployment of diverse networks and leased circuits. He played a central role in the establishment of extensive wide-area networks (WANs) for several prominent banks. Lanre’s academic foundation in Electronics Systems, coupled with his hands-on experience, has enabled him to excel in networking, communications, and information technology design and security. He possesses a wealth of experience in implementing cutting-edge solutions from industry leaders such as Cisco, HP, Compaq, and Microsoft.
Lanre consulted for numerous government and private organisations in Nigeria and beyond, including NNPC, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration, the FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Service, FCT-ERC, and Crest Computers Limited, one of the foremost organisations involved in the computerization of INEC, which saw him travel around the country for the deployment and installation of workstations. The company was also at the forefront of the implementation of the e-governance project by the Ondo State Government. This project was commissioned by the former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
Lanre founded Access Solutions Limited in 2003 with its subsidiaries, where he served as Chairman and Chief Executive until his demise. Access Solution Limited is a renowned indigenous IT company in Nigeria that is at the forefront of pioneering 'Next Generation' software innovations and digital solutions across various sectors. Under his visionary leadership, Access Solutions has consistently delivered innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life in Africa.
Under his leadership, Access Solutions became one of the most prized information technology companies in Nigeria, with a strong focus on innovation, customer service, corporate governance, and social responsibility. He pioneered several groundbreaking technologies, including the Voxe Self-Service Kiosk. This innovative platform revolutionises customer service and financial transactions, offering a wide range of services such as attendance management, ATM card dispense, all-round banking services, POS capabilities, and many more. The Voxe Kiosk represents a significant leap in the evolution of modern self-service solutions.
Besides, Access Solutions provides a diverse range of payment solutions tailored for individuals and businesses alike. From streamlined payment processing to secure and efficient online payment gateways, Access Solutions is at the forefront of transforming payment experiences.
These solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern consumers and businesses, facilitating transactions with ease and security.
Recognitions and Awards
Lanre’s dedication to technology and entrepreneurship has earned him several prestigious awards and accolades across Nigeria. Notably:
- 2010 FCT Business Excellence Award.
- Best Software Company (Access Solutions Ltd.) in 2011 by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology through the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).
- 2013 Outstanding Contribution to Education from the Department of Policy and Implementation, Education Secretariat, FCT Abuja.
- 2014 High-Tech Supporter, Entrepreneur, and Innovator from the High-Tech Centre for Nigerian Women and Youth Development.
- 2018 Partner in Progress from the Nigerian Computer Society.
- 2019 Recognition and appreciation of work in the delivery of Bespoke Software Solutions in Nigeria from the IT Edge West Africa Convergence Conference.
- 2023 Government Digital Services Promotion Award for Digital Economy Promotion (North Central) from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
- Customer Appreciation Award from Interswitch, recognising its steadfast partnership
- Outstanding Service Award from the Education Resource Centre (ERC), Abuja, for its substantial contributions to the development of the FCT-ERC mandate.
- Award of Excellence from the National Conference of Directors/Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation.
This profile stands as a testament to Mr. Elijah Olanrewaju's remarkable journey, unwavering dedication, and outstanding contributions to the world of technology and business.
Death and Legacy
Elijah Olanrewaju passed away on January 31, 2024. His death came as a massive shock. Until he passed on, Engr. Olanrewaju was a loving family man and was married to his sweetheart and gist partner, Mrs. Maria Ife Olanrewaju, for more than 24 years. He is also survived by his wife, children and siblings.
He was a compassionate man who will be greatly missed. His love and care for the less privileged saw him establish the KIFE FOUNDATION, where he assists out-of-school children, paying rent and medical bills for the indigent in society.
Adieu Elijah Olanrewaju
Early Life and Education
Lanre, as he was fondly called by friends and family members, was born into the family of the Late Pa Micheal and Modupe Mary Olanrewaju Ladelu on January 20, 1969, in Garo, Kabo Local Government Area of Kano State. His parents were devout Anglican faithful’s. His educational journey began at the Garo Model Primary School, Garo, Kano State, where he obtained his First School Living Certificate in 1978, before proceeding to St. David Anglican Grammar School Kudeti, Ibadan, where he obtained his SSCE in 1985. He also obtained a HSC programme at Oyo State College of Arts and Science (OSCAS) in Ile-Ife, now Osun State, between 1986 and 1988. This helped him navigate the foundational years of education with enthusiasm and curiosity.
The pursuit of higher education led Lanre to the Federal University of Technology, Akure, where he earned a B.Tech in Electronics. Academic achievements, developing critical thinking skills, and forming lifelong friendships marked his university years. He is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School, the Digital Frontiers Institute in South Africa, and a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer Society.
Family and Personal Life
Elijah Olanrewaju is married to Maria Ife Olanrewaju (nee Olaseinde), a Computer Scientist and a seasoned entrepreneur. Their union is blessed; he was a devoted husband and father who cherished his family and spent quality time with them.
Lanre was also an ordained Minister with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Inspired by the teachings of Bishop Oyedepo, he joined the Living Faith Church in 1998 after relocating to the FCT from Akure. He wears several caps because he served dutifully as a deacon, pastor, and mentor to many. He was also the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for Shiloh 2023 at LFC Goshen.
He was a keen reader who enjoyed books on history, biographies, leadership, and spirituality. He was also a sports enthusiast who loved tennis and badminton. He had an active social media presence where he shared his insights, opinions, and experiences with his followers. Facebook (@eyajuda), where he posted pictures and videos of his work, family, travels, and hobbies.
Career and Life as Chief Executive
With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years, Lanre stands as a visionary leader with a profound impact on the field of Information and Communications Technology. He has held influential positions within various esteemed organisations, playing pivotal roles in the advancement of communication technology and application system development.
Lanre’s journey began with Remsund Nigeria Limited, a pioneering company that introduced the first PC Novell Network in Nigeria. His early contributions were marked by pioneering network implementations and the deployment of diverse networks and leased circuits. He played a central role in the establishment of extensive wide-area networks (WANs) for several prominent banks. Lanre’s academic foundation in Electronics Systems, coupled with his hands-on experience, has enabled him to excel in networking, communications, and information technology design and security. He possesses a wealth of experience in implementing cutting-edge solutions from industry leaders such as Cisco, HP, Compaq, and Microsoft.
Lanre consulted for numerous government and private organisations in Nigeria and beyond, including NNPC, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration, the FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Service, FCT-ERC, and Crest Computers Limited, one of the foremost organisations involved in the computerization of INEC, which saw him travel around the country for the deployment and installation of workstations. The company was also at the forefront of the implementation of the e-governance project by the Ondo State Government. This project was commissioned by the former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
Lanre founded Access Solutions Limited in 2003 with its subsidiaries, where he served as Chairman and Chief Executive until his demise. Access Solution Limited is a renowned indigenous IT company in Nigeria that is at the forefront of pioneering 'Next Generation' software innovations and digital solutions across various sectors. Under his visionary leadership, Access Solutions has consistently delivered innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life in Africa.
Under his leadership, Access Solutions became one of the most prized information technology companies in Nigeria, with a strong focus on innovation, customer service, corporate governance, and social responsibility. He pioneered several groundbreaking technologies, including the Voxe Self-Service Kiosk. This innovative platform revolutionises customer service and financial transactions, offering a wide range of services such as attendance management, ATM card dispense, all-round banking services, POS capabilities, and many more. The Voxe Kiosk represents a significant leap in the evolution of modern self-service solutions.
Besides, Access Solutions provides a diverse range of payment solutions tailored for individuals and businesses alike. From streamlined payment processing to secure and efficient online payment gateways, Access Solutions is at the forefront of transforming payment experiences.
These solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern consumers and businesses, facilitating transactions with ease and security.
Recognitions and Awards
Lanre’s dedication to technology and entrepreneurship has earned him several prestigious awards and accolades across Nigeria. Notably:
- 2010 FCT Business Excellence Award.
- Best Software Company (Access Solutions Ltd.) in 2011 by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology through the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).
- 2013 Outstanding Contribution to Education from the Department of Policy and Implementation, Education Secretariat, FCT Abuja.
- 2014 High-Tech Supporter, Entrepreneur, and Innovator from the High-Tech Centre for Nigerian Women and Youth Development.
- 2018 Partner in Progress from the Nigerian Computer Society.
- 2019 Recognition and appreciation of work in the delivery of Bespoke Software Solutions in Nigeria from the IT Edge West Africa Convergence Conference.
- 2023 Government Digital Services Promotion Award for Digital Economy Promotion (North Central) from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
- Customer Appreciation Award from Interswitch, recognising its steadfast partnership
- Outstanding Service Award from the Education Resource Centre (ERC), Abuja, for its substantial contributions to the development of the FCT-ERC mandate.
- Award of Excellence from the National Conference of Directors/Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation.
This profile stands as a testament to Mr. Elijah Olanrewaju's remarkable journey, unwavering dedication, and outstanding contributions to the world of technology and business.
Death and Legacy
Elijah Olanrewaju passed away on January 31, 2024. His death came as a massive shock. Until he passed on, Engr. Olanrewaju was a loving family man and was married to his sweetheart and gist partner, Mrs. Maria Ife Olanrewaju, for more than 24 years. He is also survived by his wife, children and siblings.
He was a compassionate man who will be greatly missed. His love and care for the less privileged saw him establish the KIFE FOUNDATION, where he assists out-of-school children, paying rent and medical bills for the indigent in society.
Adieu Elijah Olanrewaju
