Foluwaso Lawrence Olamiti, fondly known as Folu Olamiti, is a veteran Nigerian journalist, media consultant, author, and devout Anglican whose life embodies integrity, service, and faith. For over three decades, he stood tall in the Nigerian Tribune newsroom, shaping narratives with honesty, courage, and insight. His voice, both in journalism and public service, continues to resonate as one of Nigeria’s most enduring and respected.
Born on November 30, 1951, in Idanre, Ondo State, Olamiti was raised in a devout Christian family. His father, Pa Daniel Akinseye Olamiti, served as an Anglican catechist, while his mother, Julian Olawemimo, nurtured their six children with discipline and compassion. Frequent relocations due to pastoral duties exposed him early to life’s uncertainties, teaching him resilience, adaptability, and a strong moral compass that later guided his career and character.
Fondly remembered as cheerful, approachable, and principled, Olamiti built a reputation for warmth and humility. Among colleagues and friends, he was affectionately called Buoda Folu (Brother Folu), a reflection of his approachable personality and deep empathy. His family life was equally fulfilling; married to Omotola Adejoke Fayiga PhD. He is blessed with two sons and a daughter. He has remained an embodiment of balance between professional pursuit and family devotion.
Education was the ladder through which Olamiti climbed to prominence. He began his schooling at St. Mary’s Church School, Agbala Maria, and later St. Paul’s Church, Odode, Idanre. He attended Olofin Grammar School before completing his Higher School Certificate at Ilesa Grammar School. His thirst for journalism led him to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos, followed by advanced training at the Thomson Foundation Editorial School, Cardiff, Wales, and the Institute of Journalism in Western Germany. Though financial challenges prevented him from pursuing further university education, his persistence sharpened his resolve and professional drive.
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His career journey is inseparably tied to the Nigerian Tribune, where he served for 30 years between 1972 and 2002. Starting as a cub reporter with a modest £17.50 salary, he rose steadily to become Executive Director of Publications, equivalent to Editor-in-Chief. Along the way, he held critical roles such as News Editor, Assistant Editor, and Editor of the Sunday Tribune. Each stage highlighted his fearless pursuit of truth and his ability to lead editorial teams with vision and conviction.
Renowned for fact-driven reporting, Olamiti covered landmark events, including Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s 1979 and 1983 presidential campaigns. His boldness in truth-telling frequently drew the scrutiny of security agencies, not because of falsehood but because of his unyielding dedication to factual reporting. Beyond the Tribune, he served for over a decade as Media Consultant to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), where he raised public awareness about anti-corruption efforts and ethical governance. He also mid wived the Advent Cable Network Nigeria Television ACNNTV- a tele- evangelism organ for Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion where he sat as the Chairman Board of Management for eight years. Presently Chairman/ CEO Newspotng.com an online newspaper and Executive Director of private MAJOTV.
Olamiti’s contributions extended into professional and spiritual affiliations. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (FNGE), a member of the International Press Institute (IPI), the London Institute of Journalists, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists. A Jerusalem Pilgrim (JP) and Knight of St Christopher of the Anglican Church, his faith has always remained central to his life and worldview, guiding him in humility, honesty, and public service.
In 2022, Olamiti distilled his decades of experience into his book A Peep into the Past, an anthology of essays and reflections across journalism, politics, faith, and governance. Structured into 11 sections, including On the Hustings with Papa Awo, The ICPC Years, The Anglican Church, and Restructuring Nigeria , the book has been hailed as a masterclass in reportage and storytelling. Its launch on November 30, 2023, in Ibadan coincided with his 72nd birthday and became a celebration of his enduring impact, drawing dignitaries, family, and admirers.
Over the years, he has been celebrated as “Nigeria’s foremost newsman,” “a quiet general of truth and grace,” and “an encyclopedia journalistica.” His mentorship of younger journalists has become one of his greatest legacies, with newsroom leaders across the country counting him as a guide and inspiration. Honors such as Fellowship of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Fellow Diamond Awards for Media Excellence and Fellow of the Institute for Governance and Leadership Studies in Africa further cement his status as a distinguished figure in Nigerian media.
From the hills of Idanre to the pinnacle of Nigerian journalism, Foluwaso Lawrence Olamiti’s journey is a story of faith, determination, and service. Journalist, author, consultant, mentor, and devout Christian, he remains a shining example of resilience and humility. His life is not just a chronicle of personal achievement but a legacy of truth and grace, a reminder that integrity and faith remain timeless virtues in the service of humanity.
