Elder Joseph Buremoh, an 84-year-old entrepreneur from Kwara State, who built a successful path in building contracting, transport, and trade, shares with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI his life journey, values, and the experiences that have shaped him
What was growing up like for you?
I was born into the family of the late Chief and Mrs Robert Babalola Buremoh on 22nd February, 1942 in Oke Oyan, Ile-Ire District, Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria.
I was born into a Christian family. My grandfather was a pastor, my father was a businessman and a building contractor who maintained his Christian faith.
I grew up with that strong Christian background and had the privilege of living with my grandfather for some time. I also lived with my father, so I was influenced by both households.I stayed with my grandfather for about four years. When it was time for me to begin formal education, I had to move to my father’s home so I could continue my studies.
What was education like for you?
I had my elementary education at both Idera Elementary School, Idera and ECWA Demonstration School, Igbaja, Kwara State.
After completing my Standard 7, I engaged in self-education by enrolling for a professional exam and passed, but I could not pursue tertiary education in order to help my dad in the family business.
I joined my father’s building business where he and I were able to secure private and government contracts, which we executed successfully with the help of God.
After school, you joined your father’s building business. Can you share how that experience shaped you as a businessman?
Joining my father’s building contractor business after school was one of the most important steps in shaping who I became as a businessman. It taught me the value of hard work, discipline, and honesty.
I learnt how to manage people, handle money responsibly, and oversee projects from start to finish. Every challenge I faced there, whether it was a difficult project or a tight deadline, taught me patience and problem-solving.
More than anything, it showed me that success comes not just from skill, but from integrity and treating people fairly. As a business-oriented individual, I also ventured into other businesses, including transport, provision stores, as well as block making.
What motivated you to pursue business despite not attending tertiary school?
Well, you see, in my time, formal education was important, but it was not the only path to knowledge. I learnt more from experience than I ever could have in a classroom. Working alongside my father, I was exposed to the realities of business at a very early age.
I learnt how to manage people—not just as workers, but as human beings with hopes, concerns and needs. I learnt how to plan and execute projects, how to meet deadlines, and how to handle money responsibly.
More importantly, I learnt the principles behind business: honesty, integrity, patience, and perseverance. Those lessons were invaluable because they taught me that success is not only measured in profits but in trust, respect, and the legacy you leave behind.
My motivation came from seeing the impact of hard work firsthand and realising that with diligence and God’s guidance, I could create something meaningful for myself, my family, and the community, even without a tertiary education.
What were some of the most challenging projects you worked on, and how did you overcome them?
Yes, there were certainly many challenges along the way—every project has its difficulties. Some required long hours, careful planning, and sometimes navigating unexpected problems with materials or manpower.
But those challenges were also my greatest teachers. I learnt that perseverance and honesty are more valuable than shortcuts or quick gains.
When you approach a project with integrity, work diligently, and treat everyone involved fairly, solutions often present themselves, and the work gets done properly.
In those days, payment and reward were not immediate; you earned your keep through results. Overcoming challenges meant staying patient, adapting to circumstances, and always remembering that the true measure of success is not just the money, but the trust and respect you build along the way. That mindset guided me in every venture I undertook.
How did you meet your wife?
I first met my wife through a family introduction, though at the time, someone else had also been presented to me. But there was something about her qualities that immediately stood out. She was kind, patient, and had a quiet strength that I deeply admired.
I knew, even then, that she was the one with whom I could build a life, a partner to share everything with. That certainty guided me, and over the years, those qualities only deepened and strengthened our bond. It has been 60 years of marriage now, and I thank God for every moment.
Sixty years is such a long time. What were your secrets?
Our faith and the guidance we received as Christians have been the cornerstone of our marriage. For 60 years, my wife and I have navigated life’s joys and challenges together, and the principles we learnt—living with integrity, showing respect, practising patience, and putting God at the centre of our lives—have strengthened our bond in ways that time cannot diminish.
Marriage, I have learnt, is not just about love or emotions; it is about commitment, understanding, and a shared moral compass. My faith taught us how to communicate with kindness, forgive quickly, and serve one another selflessly.
These were lessons that guided us through financial hardships, family pressures, and the everyday trials of life. I often observe young people today, and I see how easily they overlook these foundational principles. They chase feelings and convenience, rather than building on trust, faith, and consistent effort. That is why challenges arise early in many marriages.
Looking back on six decades, I can say with certainty that our adherence to God’s guidance, our unwavering faith, and a mutual commitment to live honourably have been the pillars that sustained us.
Even at this age, I continue to learn from my wife and treasure every moment we share together. I will also add that having a lasting marriage is not by my doing, but by the Lord’s empowerment. I encountered no difficulties in fulfilling all these responsibilities.
What values did you instill in your children that are still with them to this day?
Looking back, I take pride in the integrity, respect, and compassion that I instilled in my children. I encouraged them to be honest in their dealings, to treat others with kindness, and to live with a sense of responsibility towards family and community.
Seeing them embody these principles today, through their choices, their relationships, and the way they contribute to the lives of others, is one of the greatest joys of my life.
It reassures me that the lessons of a lifetime have found a lasting home in the next generation. I am truly grateful that they were raised with strong values, and it brings me great joy to see that they have carried those lessons into their lives.
It is a blessing to know that the guidance and principles I shared with them have taken root and continue to shape the people they have become.
What would you consider your greatest achievements in business?
My greatest achievement is the ability to manage multiple ventures successfully and provide for my family and community. Over the years, I’ve learnt that true success isn’t measured just by wealth or titles, but by the positive impact you leave on those around you.
I’ve seen businesses rise and fall, economies shift, and yet, through patience, discipline, and a steadfast commitment to my values, I’ve been able to create stability—not only for my family but for the wider community that has supported me all these years.
More than anything, I take pride in knowing that my work has inspired the next generation to dream bigger, work harder, and care for others, because at the end of the day, the legacy we leave behind is far more important than the profits we make today.
How has your faith influenced your personal and professional life?
My faith has influenced every aspect of my life, both personally and professionally, in ways that words can hardly capture. I have always believed that working with God and running a business are deeply intertwined.
When you serve people sincerely, when you meet their needs with honesty and integrity, you are not just doing business; you are blessing lives. In that process, God blesses you in ways that are both tangible and unseen.
Throughout my years, I genuinely enjoyed my work. Faith has given me patience in hard times, discernment in business decisions, and humility in moments of success. It has shaped my character, guided my relationships, and allowed me to leave a legacy of trustworthiness, generosity, and service.
Looking back now, I see that all my accomplishments are inseparable from the faith that has sustained me throughout these 84 years.
What are you mostly grateful to God for at this age?
At this age, I am deeply grateful to God for the gift of health, which allows me to enjoy each day with clarity and vitality. I am thankful for the comfort and peace I experience in my life, and above all, for the blessing of witnessing the growth and accomplishments of my children and grandchildren. Their presence is a daily reminder of God’s faithfulness and the enduring joy of family.
