In a sorrowful announcement, the family of Dr. Onaolapo Soleye, former Minister of Finance of Nigeria, confirmed his passing at the age of 90.
The family statement read: “With heavy hearts, but with gratitude to God Almighty for a long, impactful and positively eventful life, the family announce the passing of Pa Onaolapo Soleye, the father of our late brother, Maj. Gen. O. Soleye (retd). He turned ninety years only last Saturday.
“Papa served the country and humanity in various capacities rising to the position of an Associate Professor in the University of Ibadan, Commissioner for Works in Ogun State and Minister of Finance of the Federal Republic of Nigeria amongst others.
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“Onaolapo was a true lover of God and humanity and this translated into his unwavering commitment to church activities as well as ready support and assistance to all who came across him, in anyway that he could.
“The loss of Dr. Soleye is surely not that of the Soleye family alone. It’s our father that has just passed and we must all prepare to be part of his rites of passage.
“Burial details will be announced by the family in due course. Until then, please pray for the repose of Papa’s soul and God’s comfort upon his family and other loved ones. May the soul of Dr. Onaolapo Soleye rest in peace. Amen,” the statement added.
Onaolapo demise has sent waves of grief across the nation, with tributes pouring in from notable figures such as former President Muhammadu Buhari and Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel.
Born on November 11, 1933, in the city of Abeokuta, Dr. Soleye served as the Minister of Finance under the military administration of General Muhammadu Buhari. He was particularly known for his stringent controls on foreign exchange and his audacious decision to print new currency notes in April 1984 to curb the illicit repatriation of naira.
Beyond his national role, Dr. Soleye also served as the Commissioner for Finance and Industry in Ogun State. His career also included a stint as a lecturer at the University of Ibadan and a position on the board of the Obasanjo Presidential Library. Prior to his ministerial appointment, he served as the Commissioner of Industry in the Western Region.
In a statement released by Garba Shehu, former President Muhammadu Buhari expressed his condolences for the passing of Dr. Soleye, the Finance Minister in his cabinet during his tenure as Military Head of State (1983–1985). He was described as a rare gentleman and a financial specialist.
Soleye “played a pivotal role in that short, corrective administration,” according to a letter the former president sent to the family of the deceased, the government, and the people of Ogun State. “He diligently served Nigeria. His wit, intellect, diligence, and warm personality were legendary,” he added.
The former President prayed, “May the Almighty give those he left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.”