The Cooperative Mortgage Bank Limited has announced the death of one of its board members and President of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Africa, High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola.
Ayeola passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, at the age of 56, the bank said in a statement.
Until his death, Ayeola was a leading figure in Nigeria’s cooperative movement and a prominent voice in advancing cooperative development across Africa and globally.
As President of ICA Africa, he played a key role in promoting cooperative principles, strengthening institutional frameworks, and positioning cooperatives as drivers of inclusive economic growth on the continent.
Within Cooperative Mortgage Bank Limited, Ayeola served as Chairman of the Board Cooperative Committee, where he was known for his firm stance on corporate governance, strategic oversight, and sector-focused leadership.
The bank noted that his contributions significantly influenced its stability, growth, and long-term direction.
Reacting to his passing, Chairman of the Board, Mr. Olufemi Adewole, described Ayeola as a committed cooperative leader whose experience and counsel were invaluable to the bank and the wider cooperative community.
“He was a passionate advocate for cooperative ideals and brought uncommon depth, integrity, and leadership to every responsibility he undertook,” Adewole said.
The bank extended condolences to Ayeola’s family, associates, and members of the cooperative movement in Nigeria, across Africa, and worldwide, describing his death as a major loss to the sector.
Ayeola is widely regarded as one of the most influential cooperative leaders of his generation, with a legacy that spans national, continental, and global cooperative institutions.
