FROM a prodigious teenager stepping into the hallowed halls of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, to founding a globally acclaimed architecture firm by 25, Olajumoke Adenowo’s journey is a remarkable story of brilliance, resilience, and vision. As an illustrious alumna of OAU, her story not only embodies the university’s legacy of excellence but also serves as an inspiring beacon for generations across Nigeria and beyond. Today, Adenowo stands tall as a thought leader in architecture, a champion of female leadership, and one of Forbes Africa’s “50 Over 50 Most Powerful Women” in 2023 — a shinning symbol of what determination and intellect can achieve.
Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, to parents who were both professors — one in history, the other in criminology — Olajumoke Adenowo was nurtured in an environment that prized knowledge and curiosity. She enrolled at Obafemi Awolowo University, as a teenager embarking on a path that would redefine architectural innovation in Africa. By 19, she had earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture with Honours, clinching the prestigious prize for Best Student Design. Her academic journey at OAU did not end there; in 1991, she graduated with a Master’s Degree in Architecture, again with distinction, later complementing her expertise with executive education from Yale, Harvard, and global institutions.
Her time at OAU was more than a phase of study—it was the crucible where her extraordinary talent and interdisciplinary thinking were forged. The university’s rigorous standards and vibrant intellectual community provided the perfect foundation for a career that would soon soar to global heights.
Adenowo’s professional ascent began swiftly after OAU. She honed her skills as an Assistant Architect at Towry Coker Associates and later at Femi Majekodunmi Associates in Lagos. At just 23, she took on the significant Federal Ministry of Finance project in Abuja, a feat that foreshadowed her audacious future. In 1994, at the age of 25, she founded AD Consulting, a boutique architecture and interior design firm that has since become a powerhouse in the industry.
Over the past three decades, AD Consulting has completed more than 114 projects, ranging from institutional buildings and office complexes to private residences and master plans. Serving clients like Coca-Cola, L’Oreal, Access Bank plc, and Guaranty Trust Bank, Adenowo has elevated African architecture onto the global stage. Her latest endeavor—a staggering $880 million housing complex in South Africa—underscores her ambition and influence.
Central to her work is her design philosophy, “NeoHeritage Architecture,” which marries a deep reverence for cultural heritage with cutting-edge contemporary design. “I aim to create spaces that tell our stories while meeting global standards,” she explains. “Architecture isn’t just about buildings; it’s about crafting ecosystems that uplift communities,” Adenowo asserts. This approach has not only distinguished her projects but also redefined modern African architecture with global relevance.
While architecture is her trade, Adenowo proudly embraces the title of polymath—and with good reason. For over 20 years, she has led “Awesome Treasures,” a mentorship program dedicated to cultivating female leadership, reflecting her commitment to empowering the next generation. “While I continue to practice architecture, I have started focusing on raising transformational leaders because that’s what is going to make Africa livable for the next generation,” she declares with conviction.
An acclaimed author and sought-after speaker, Adenowo’s influence transcends her architectural achievements. Her affiliations with prestigious networks like the African Leadership Network, Vital Voices, and the Global Philanthropy Forum – her extensive professional network is bolstered by memberships in esteemed institutions such as the Nigerian Institute of Architects, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, the African Leadership Network, and various global philanthropy forums — highlight her role as a global citizen and leader. In 2023, the United States Congress recognised her contributions to leadership and philanthropy, a testament to her far-reaching impact.
Adenowo’s brilliance has not gone unnoticed. In addition to her 2023 Forbes Africa “50 Over 50” ranking, she has been celebrated as Forbes Woman Africa Entrepreneur of the Year (2020) and featured on OAU’s Wall of Fame (2021). Her alma mater honored her as an Ambassador of Excellence in 2018 for her contributions to architecture and women’s development. Other accolades include the New African Woman in Business Award (2016), the International Alliance for Women World of Difference 100 Award, and recognition in the University of West England’s Hall of Fame for people of Black ancestry.
Olajumoke Adenowo’s journey — from teenage prodigy at OAU to a globally recognized architect and visionary leader — is a narrative of extraordinary talent and unrelenting purpose. Her achievements bring immense pride to Obafemi Awolowo University, illuminating the institution’s role in shaping trailblazers who transform the world. As she continues to design iconic structures and nurture transformational leaders, Adenowo remains a powerful reminder of the heights that OAU alumni can reach — and an inspiration for students to dream boldly and act decisively.
Her story is not just one of personal triumph; it is a celebration of the intellectual rigour, creativity, and excellence, one that Obafemi Awolowo University is proud to be associated with. Through her, the university’s legacy shines brighter, urging the next generation to build, lead, and leave an indelible mark on the world.
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