Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli stands as one of the finest examples of leadership deeply rooted in tradition, education, and service. Hailing from the Oloofiere Compound, Mapo, Ibadan, he has risen through the ranks of Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy from Mogaji to Jagun all the way to becoming the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland a clear testament to his integrity, humility, and dedication to communal progress.
He began his academic journey at UNA Primary School in Ekotedo and Progressive Day School, Aladorin both in Ibadan, and proceeded to Ahmadiyya Grammar School in Eleyele, where he distinguished himself in both academics and leadership. His quest for excellence led him to the prestigious University of Ibadan, where he studied Law and was later called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987, thus becoming a respected lawyer and businessman. He also obtained LL. M. (Law) from the University of Ibadan.
In pursuit of continuous learning and leadership excellence, Senator Alli recently earned a Ph.D. in Leadership and Strategic Studies from the Federal University, Lokoja, further strengthening his capacity for effective governance and national development.
Beyond politics, Senator Sharafadeen Alli is a lover of sports and his favorite hobby being table tennis. His political base remains Ibadan North Local Government, Ward 3, in Oyo State.
Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli served as the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government from December 1991 to November 1993. He also served as Secretary to the State Government and later became the Pioneer Chief of Staff to former Governor Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo State, who is now the Olubadan of Ibadanland. He also served as the Chairman of the Oodua Group of Companies.
Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli was first elected to represent the Oyo South Senatorial District on the platform of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) in 1998 but was not sworn in due to the military interruption of the democratic transition.
In 2023 Sharafadeen Alli was elected and sworn in as the Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing the good people of Oyo South at the 10th National Assembly. Before then, he had held various party positions at different levels.
As a first-term senator, he has proven himself to be a performer, reformer, and compassionate leader. He was honored among others, with the “Most Valuable, Outstanding, and Performing Senator of the Year” at the 14th Young Achievers Nigeria Awards, a recognition well deserved given his impressive record of impactful projects and initiatives across Oyo South Senatorial District.
Among his notable achievements are:
Educational Empowerment: Free coaching and WAEC support for over 1,600 SS2 students across Oyo South.
School Infrastructure Development: Donation of computers, solar panels, and furniture to schools such as Methodist Grammar School, Igboora, and Ansar-ud-Deen Grammar School, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Community Development: Provision of boreholes, transformers, and solar street lights across several wards, improving access to electricity and clean water.
Healthcare Support: Donation of both medical and non-medical equipment to health centers across the district and free medical care outreach.
Economic Empowerment: Launch of food bank support programs for widows and traders, alongside training opportunities for youths in e-commerce and agribusiness.
Sports Development: Support for grassroots sports as part of youth engagement and talent development initiatives.
In the Senate, Senator Alli has demonstrated legislative excellence by sponsoring not less than five (5) bills and actively contributing to debates and motions that shape national policy. He currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Institutions and Research Institutes.
Through his influence and dedication, he has facilitated employment opportunities for professionals in various sectors, including medical doctors, nurses, Master’s and Ph.D. holders in Agricultural Engineering, Horticulture, Forestry, Computer Science, as well as paramilitary officers in the Fire Service and Police Force.
He has also sought collaborations for public health improvements for example, engaging with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) to boost welfare and health in his district.
Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli is indeed a beacon of hope for the people of Oyo South Senatorial District —serving with passion, intellect, and accountability. His growing list of achievements and people-centered initiatives reflects a leader who is truly in touch with the needs and aspirations of his constituents.
As he continues to serve diligently, we look forward to seeing him deliver even more dividends of democracy to the good people of Oyo South and beyond.
By Akanni Muhammed
