Michael Olumuyiwa Falomo, popularly known as Olu, a distinguished Nigerian businessman, advertising veteran, philanthropist, and prominent socialite,
Michael Olumuyiwa Falomo, popularly known as Olu, a distinguished Nigerian businessman, advertising veteran, philanthropist, and prominent socialite, is dead
The Loofosan of Ifosan, Ilesa, died on Sunday, February, 1.
He was 87 years old.
Falomo was born on August 13, 1938, in Ilesa, Osun State, where he would later become one of the town’s most celebrated sons.
He attended St. John’s Anglican School, Iloro, Ilesa, before progressing to Government College, Ibadan.
Although his early ambition was to pursue a career in engineering and broadcasting, he rose to prominence in the advertising industry, where he left an indelible mark.
Falomo began his professional journey in the media world as a production officer in commercial radio before transitioning into advertising.
Over the years, he held senior roles at leading firms including West Africa Publicity (later Lintas Limited) and Ogilvy, Benson & Mather Nigeria.
In 1986, he founded Forum Advertising Nigeria Limited, serving as its Managing Director (MD)/ Chairman Executive Officer (CEO) until his retirement.
In addition to his advertising achievements, Falomo served as chairman of Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria and was the Principal Consultant of Olu Falomo & Associates.
He played significant roles in professional bodies such as the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), and the International Advertising Association (IAA), including serving as chairman of APCON following his appointment by then‑president Olusegun Obasanjo.
A passionate supporter of cultural heritage, Falomo was deeply involved in the Iwude Ijesa festival, using the annual event to promote unity and celebrate Ijesa tradition and community pride.
Beyond his business and cultural contributions, Falomo was also known for his humanitarian work.
He served on the boards and councils of various charitable organizations, including the Nigerian Society for the Blind, the Nigerian Society for the Welfare of Retired and Elderly Persons (NISWREP), and the Bloom Cancer Care and Support Centre.
He was also a patron of programs supporting physically challenged children.
Socially, he was a pillar of Lagos’ elite circles having served as chairman of the Island Club, Lagos, and participating in numerous other clubs and societies.
Falomo is survived by his children and grandchildren.
