Biography
Shade Okoya, born Folashade Nimota Adeleye on 25 April 1977, is a prominent Nigerian businesswoman, fashion commentator and philanthropist. As the CEO of Eleganza Groupa leading Nigerian manufacturing group, she has played a key role in expanding the company’s product portfolio, which now includes baby diapers, sanitary napkins and soaps.
Born in Lagos as the sixth of seven children, Shade studied Banking and Finance at Lagos State Polytechnic and received a BA in Sociology from University of LagosShe then received an honorary Doctor of Science degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurial Leadership from European American University.
Married to billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya since 1999, Shade Okoya has overseen significant improvements in Eleganza’s operations, including improved production efficiency and revenue growth. Despite facing public scrutiny and personal challenges, such as a dispute over the paternity of one of their children, Shade remains a central figure in both her husband’s life and his business.
She has been honored with awards such as Corporate Executive of the Year and Inspirational Female CEO of the Year. In addition to her business success, Shade is also known for her philanthropic efforts, including Folashade Okoya Children’s Cup.
Nigerian industrialist and business expert
Okoya Shade |
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 Shade Okoya: History ‧ Bio ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Real name: | Nimota Adeleye of Folashade |
| Stage name: | Okoya Shade |
| Born: | April 25, 1977 (age 47) |
| Place of birth: | Lagos State, Nigeria |
| State of origin: | Ogun State |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Education: | Lagos Polytechnic, University of Lagos, European American University |
| Height: | Do not have |
| Parents: | Alhaji Tajudeen Adeleye, Alhaja Nimota Adeleye |
| Siblings: | 6 |
| Couple: | Razaq Okoya (1999–) |
| Boyfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | Olamide Okoya, Subomi Okoya, Oyinlola Okoya, Wahab Okoya |
| Job: | Industrialist • Businesswoman |
| Net worth: | 100 million dollars (USD) |
Early life and education
Shade Okoya, born Folashade Nimota Adeleye on 25 April 1977 in Lagos, Nigeria, comes from a culturally rich Yoruba family, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups known for their vibrant heritage. She was born to Alhaji Tajudeen Adeleye and Alhaja Nimota Adeleye in Lagos State and is a Muslim, originally from Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Raised in a nurturing environment that emphasized education and family values, Shade was the sixth child in a family of seven siblings, reflecting the close-knit nature of Yoruba families.
Shade Okoya’s educational background includes studying Banking and Finance at Lagos State Polytechnic and received a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from University of LagosHer academic achievements were further recognized with an honorary Doctorate of Science in Business Management and Entrepreneurship from European American Universityacknowledge her impact on business and leadership.
Career
Shade Okoya’s career is a testament to her business acumen and exceptional leadership abilities in Eleganza Groupa major Nigerian manufacturing conglomerate. As the wife of billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya, Shade has had a significant impact on the company’s success.
Starting out alongside her husband, Shade quickly proved herself indispensable. She currently serves as the CEO of Eleganza Limited Fashion Products And Eleganza Cruise and Travel Company LimitedUnder her leadership, the company expanded its product portfolio to include items such as baby diapers and sanitary napkins, making Eleganza a prominent name in Nigeria with ambitions to expand further into Africa.
One of Shade Okoya’s notable achievements was the development of Eleganza Industrial City, a 35-hectare facility on the Lekki-Epe Expressway, where she oversaw the production of a wide range of goods, including refrigerators and diapers. Her strategic innovations increased efficiency, reduced waste and cut operating costs, including the implementation of advanced software solutions for accounting and human resources.
Shade has been recognized for her contributions with awards such as Corporate Executive of the Year and Inspiring Executive Woman of the Year. Shade Okoya is praised for her leadership and style, often seen as a role model for Nigerian women in business. Her influential role in Eleganza highlights her success and influence in the Nigerian business landscape.
Social media
- Instagram: Shade Okoya (@shade.okoya)
- Wikipedia: Okoya Shade
Personal life
Shade Okoya, married to billionaire industrialist Rasaq Okoya, has had a marriage that has been both admired and scrutinized. She married Rasaq in 1999 when she was 21 and he was 59, a gap that has caused mixed reactions from the public, with some questioning her motives due to their age difference and youth.
Despite the initial controversy, their relationship has been praised for its enduring strength. In 2024, they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, with Shade publicly expressing her deep affection and respect for Rasaq, whom she described as “backbone“ .
Rasaq Okoya, known as the Aare of Lagos, is a major figure in the Nigerian business world. He heads Eleganza Groupincluding manufacturing, real estate, etc. While Rasaq has multiple wives, his relationship with Shade is noted to be stable and mutually respectful.
Shade and Rasaq have four children: Olamide Okoya, Subomi Okoya, Oyinlola Okoya, and Wahab Okoya. Their family life is described as harmonious. Shade is described as a devoted and determined mother who fosters positive relationships with Rasaq’s children from other marriages. Her role in managing family dynamics is central to their close-knit family life.
Shade Okoya is often praised for her achievements in business and her role as a wife and mother. The couple’s participation in public events and viral challenges reinforces their image as a loving and devoted couple. Shade attributes their marital success to patience, understanding and mutual respect.
Net worth
Shade Okoya, married to billionaire industrialist Rasaq Okoya, holds a prominent position in the Eleganza Group. She is the CEO of several companies, including Eleganza Fashion Products Limited and Eleganza Cruise and Travels Limited.
Shade Okoya has amassed an estimated net worth of $100 million.
Shade’s role in Eleganza Group, which includes manufacturing, real estate and other ventures, means her wealth is closely tied to the company’s success. Her husband, Rasaq Okoya, has an estimated net worth in the billions, which of course affects her finances through their joint assets and personal assets.
