Adetunji Idowu Ishola Olurin was born on 3 December 1944 in Ilaro, present day Ogun State, Nigeria. He attended Egbado College, Ilaro, now Yewa College, where he completed his secondary studies before moving to the Technical College, Ibadan, now The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in 1966. In 1967 he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 3rd Regular Course and was commissioned in March 1970. Over the course of his career, he undertook training at the School of Infantry in Quetta, Pakistan, the Command and Staff College in Jaji, and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru.
Military Career and Command Responsibilities
After his commissioning in 1970, Olurin served in various field, staff, and diplomatic roles. Between 1975 and 1978 he served at the Nigerian High Commission in New Delhi as Deputy Defence Adviser, where he gained experience in international defence relations. Upon returning to Nigeria, he held several postings across Army Headquarters and training institutions. By 1984 to 1985 he commanded the 1st Mechanised Infantry Brigade, where he focused on operational readiness and strong leadership principles. His ability to manage people and processes earned him a reputation for clarity, discipline, and steady command.
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Military Governor of Oyo State, 1985 to 1988
Following the political changes of August 1985, Olurin was appointed Military Governor of Oyo State. He administered the state from September 1985 to July 1988, a period that required continuity, administrative stability, and effective coordination between government agencies. During his tenure, he served on the National Council of States. His administration also initiated steps that contributed to the establishment of what later became Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, building foundations for educational development in the region.
Senior National Duties and ECOMOG Leadership
After completing his governorship, Olurin returned to the Nigerian Army and was appointed Director of Logistics at Army Headquarters. In 1990 he became the General Officer Commanding the 3rd Armoured Division, Jos, and he served on the Armed Forces Ruling Council. His leadership extended beyond Nigeria in December 1992 when he assumed command of the ECOMOG Peacekeeping Force in Liberia during the First Liberian Civil War. His responsibility involved coordinating multinational forces, working with regional leaders, and stabilising territories affected by conflict. He completed his mission in October 1993 and retired from the army the same year after a long and active career.
Civic Engagement and Ekiti State Administration
After military service, Olurin continued contributing to national affairs, offering guidance across civic and political platforms. In October 2006 he was appointed Sole Administrator of Ekiti State during a period of constitutional crisis. His administration focused on restoring calm, ensuring continuity of governance, and reorganising essential state structures. In 2011 he contested for the Ogun State governorship under the Peoples Democratic Party, presenting a platform centred on public service, development, and security.
Honours, Public Service, and Legacy
Olurin received several distinctions, including the United Nations Peace Medal and the Humane Order of African Redemption, Knight Commander, one of Liberia’s highest honours. In 2006 he was appointed Chancellor of the Tai Solarin University of Education, where he supported educational growth and institutional development. His career left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s military traditions, state administration, and regional peacekeeping efforts. Those who worked with him often described a leader who valued order, discipline, and steady commitment to public duty.
Passing and Tributes
Brigadier General Tunji Olurin passed away on 20 August 2021 at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital after a brief illness, at the age of 76. His death prompted tributes from political leaders, military colleagues, and communities across the country. Many reflected on his contribution to Nigeria’s military evolution, his governance record, and his role in West African stability. His life and work continue to be remembered for dedication, calm leadership, and the ability to guide institutions through challenging periods.
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Author’s Note
Leadership that stays rooted in discipline and duty can guide a nation through its most demanding moments. Tunji Olurin’s life shows that consistent service, clear purpose, and steady resolve create lasting impact, whether in uniform, in government, or in regional peace efforts. His legacy encourages readers to value responsibility, embrace preparation, and serve with integrity wherever their path leads.
References
TheCable, Tunji Olurin, ex military governor of Oyo, is dead
Vanguard, Olurin dies at 78, Buhari, IBB, governors, others mourn
Daily Trust, Tributes as former ECOMOG commander Olurin dies at 76
Tribune Online, General Adetunji Olurin dies at 76
