Key Points

• Why Temi Ajibade dropped Otedola surname sparks national attention today.

• Building identity beyond Otedola name strongly drives Temi Ajibade’s choice.

• Crafting a lasting legacy of her own remains her focus.

Temi Ajibade, the daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola, has explained why she no longer uses her father’s name in public. She says she did it because she wanted to create her own identity away from one of Africa’s most famous businesspeople.

Ajibade, who used to be called Temi Otedola, spoke at a press conference in Lagos and said that even though she is proud of her heritage, she wanted to make a career for herself that was based on her own work, not her father’s wealth or reputation. “I wanted people to know what I stand for, not just where I came from,” she said.

Creating an identity that goes beyond the Otedola name

Ajibade, who is now a senior figure in Nigeria’s creative and media industry, said that people often paid more attention to her last name than to what she had done. She said that people often had unfair and fair expectations of her, thinking that her father’s connections or opportunities were the only reason she had them. “It’s not about getting away from my family name; it’s about showing that I can stand on my own two feet,” she told the people there.

Why Temi Ajibade stopped using the Otedola name

The choice to drop the Otedola name has caused a lot of talk in Nigeria, where last names are important in politics, business, and entertainment. Ajibade said that her choice didn’t sit well with everyone, even friends who thought she was giving up a legacy. But she says that the move has given her room to have a more real personal and professional journey.

People in the same field say that the decision is part of a growing trend among second-generation elites who want to break free from their family names. Kunle Aina, a cultural analyst, said, “In Nigeria today, people often question someone’s credibility if they seem to have inherited success.” “Temi’s move is brave because it shows that merit and individuality are more important than family background.”

Making her own legacy

According to a report by Vanguard news, Ajibade made it clear that her story is not about being turned down but about growing. She stays close to her family while also starting her own media and charity platforms. She said, “My father’s successes motivate me, but they don’t define me.” “Every child must choose what legacy they want to leave behind at some point.”

Ajibade’s move is part of a bigger conversation about identity, self-determination, and the importance of family names in African society. The Nigerian entertainment and creative industries are becoming a global powerhouse.