06/06/2026
IYALODE FOLASADE OGUNBIYI AT 80: A LIFE OF HONOUR, LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY
By Abiola Ogundeko | Ipara Remo, Ogun State.
Chief (Mrs.) Folasade Towobola Ogunbiyi (née Osiberu), the Iyalode of Remoland, marks her 80th birthday today, June 6, 2026, celebrating a life defined by dignity, service, and enduring influence across professional, cultural, and community spheres.
A distinguished administrator and educationist, she began her career as a teacher at the United Nations International School, New York. She later served as a Principal Assistant Registrar at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, where she was known for her professionalism and administrative excellence. Her career also extended into the financial sector, where she worked as Human Resources Manager at NAL Merchant Bank, contributing to organisational development and personnel management.
Chief (Mrs.) Ogunbiyi is a princess of the Osiberu family, with strong roots in Latawa and Epe, Sagamu. She is the sister of His Royal Highness, Oba Adewale Osiberu (Iruganyin Ekun II), the Elepe of Epe Land. Her upbringing reflects a rich blend of royal heritage, discipline, and cultural grounding.
She studied English at the University of Ibadan and later earned a Master’s degree in the United States, further equipping her for a life of service and leadership.
In June 2016, she was installed as the Iyalode of Remoland by the late Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Michael Adeniyi Sonariwo (Erinjugbo II), following her emergence as successor to the late Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo. As the apex female traditional title in Remoland, the office of the Iyalode places her at the forefront of women’s leadership, cultural preservation, and community engagement.
A woman of strength, integrity, and vision, Iyalode Ogunbiyi has continued to make meaningful contributions to the socio-economic development of Remoland. She is a strong advocate for women empowerment, championing initiatives that encourage enterprise, mentorship, and inclusive participation of women and youth in community development.
She is happily married to Aremo Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, former Managing Director of Daily Times and erstwhile Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and is blessed with children.
At 80, Iyalode Folasade Ogunbiyi stands as a symbol of honour, leadership, and enduring legacy—deeply respected for her service, cultural stewardship, and lasting impact on Remoland and beyond.