Lagos came to a standstill as prominent figures from within Nigeria and abroad gathered in Lekki to honor the life of Pa Adebayo Japhet Adegboyega-Conde JP, a distinguished educator and chief brewer, at his burial ceremony.
Pa Adegboyega-Conde, who hailed from a wealthy and notable lineage, was celebrated for his outstanding contributions both in education and the brewing industry. Born into a merchant family with strong ties between Lagos, Epe, and France, his early life was shaped by privilege. His father was the first duly elected Local Government chairman of Epe, a legacy that placed Pa Adegboyega-Conde in a prominent social position.
Although he had an opportunity to work at the Daily Times of Nigeria, Pa Adegboyega-Conde declined, citing his aversion to frequent transfers. Instead, he found his calling at Nigerian Breweries, where he excelled as a chief brewer. His dedication to workers’ rights saw him serve as the Secretary-General of the Nigerian Breweries Labor Union, where he advocated fiercely for improved working conditions.
In 1976, his passion shifted to education. He enrolled in the COSIT course at the University of Lagos, earning a certificate that allowed him to begin a teaching career. From 1977 to 1983, he taught English Literature at Nigeria Premier College, Jibowu, Yaba. In 1984, he moved with his family to Ipaja and joined the staff of State High School, Alimosho, where he left a lasting legacy as an English Language and Literature teacher.
At the burial, Pa Adegboyega-Conde’s firstborn, Dr. Adetunji James Ade-Conde, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, describing his father as a man of “remarkable discipline and integrity.” In his tribute, he said, “My father was a strict disciplinarian, always law-abiding, and carried himself with a deep sense of respect for everyone around him.”
Former students from State High School, Alimosho, including the 1988 set led by Pastor James Omotayo Agbogun, also paid tribute to their mentor. Pastor Agbogun described him as “a teacher, mentor, father, and an enigma who dedicated his life to raising young people and helping them fulfill their purpose.”
Oyinlola Anjour Falade, the secretary of the Buddies group, further praised Adegboyega-Conde for his profound impact on the lives of his students, saying, “He imparted not only knowledge but also values that shaped us.”
The gathering was a true celebration of a life well-lived, with family, friends, colleagues, and students reflecting on the legacy of a man who touched many lives in different capacities.
