Nigerian billionaire businesswoman and philanthropist Folorunso Alakija has reportedly lost her sight following a near air mishap. The 73-year-old founder and Executive Vice Chairman of Famfa Oil was traveling with her husband, Modupe Alakija, when the incident occurred, causing a significant spike in her blood pressure that adversely affected her vision.
Following the incident, Alakija reportedly ordered a new jet to avoid traveling on the same flight as her husband. Despite these measures, her vision continued to deteriorate until she ultimately lost her sight completely.
Alakija, known for her deep faith, began hosting a small fellowship in her home around 2004, which eventually grew into the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International. On her 69th birthday, she was ordained as an Apostle.
In addition to her religious endeavors, Alakija has made significant contributions to education and healthcare. She and her husband pledged to build a 250-bed teaching hospital for Osun State University (UNIOSUN), a project that is reportedly 85% complete and valued at over N34 billion.
Recently, on February 20, 2025, Alakija attended the launch of former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s memoir, “A Journey in Service,” held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. The event was graced by numerous dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu and former leaders Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Yakubu Gowon, and Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Reports have also surfaced suggesting that Alakija and her husband, Modupe, have separated after over 30 years of marriage. These reports, which emerged around March 2024, indicate that the couple has been living apart due to personal differences. However, there has been no official confirmation from the Alakija family regarding their marital status.
