Gabriel Olufemi Biobaku

Gabriel Biobaku was born on January 10th, 1946, in Olujobi, Ogun state, Nigeria. He was the second of four children born to Johnson Biobaku and Esther Sowunmi.

The earlier part of Gabriel’s life was spent in Abeokuta, Ogun state, where he attended the African Church Primary School before continuing on with his secondary schooling at the African Church Modern School. He later attended Teachers Training College, where he was certified as a teacher. Gabriel started his teaching career at Ansarudeen Primary School before quickly being promoted to Headmaster. He was proud of this accomplishment and delighted in being the youngest member on staff. He would later join the Nigerian Police Academy and ended up in the military police force, serving in Eastern Nigeria during the Biafran war which lasted from 1967 to 1970. After the war ended in 1970, he took on work as a detective where he continued to excel until he decided to relocate to the United States of America to further his education.

Before he left Nigeria, he got married to his sweetheart Comfort Olufunmilola; who joined him in Maryland a year later. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Coppin State College, MD in 1978, and went on to earn an MBA from Southeastern University in 1979.

During this time, he had his first 2 children, David and Emmanuel before relocating back to Nigeria. He started and ended his career at the National Electric Power Authority, where he swiftly rose up the ranks. He had his third and last child Gabriel Jr, while working in Kaduna. He later retired and came to join his children in the United States in 2007.

In his lifetime, what truly set Gabriel apart was his gentle and caring nature. Gabriel had a heart that overflowed with love for his family and friends. He was that person who frequently called to check on his loved ones, ensuring that they knew they were always in his thoughts and prayers. His character was an embodiment of integrity and humility. Despite holding a position of power and influence, he remained humble and steadfast in his principles, never allowing corruption or the trappings of authority to change who he was as a person. Gabriel was a role model not just in his professional life but in the daily conduct of his person.

Gabriel’s faith in God was unwavering. Even in the face of adversity, he remained unshaken. Towards the end of his earthly life, he battled ailments with incredible courage and grace. Gabriel never once complained about the pain he endured. His resilience in the face of these adversities remains a testament to his unwavering faith and inner strength.

Gabriel leaves behind a loving family-his wife, three devoted sons, adoring grandchildren, daughters-in-law, brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces. His love and wisdom will continue to resonate through generations touched by his kindness and warmth.