21/06/2026
Interview session with Engr. Yusuf Sagaya MFR, OFR, 1st Zanna of Ilorin for his 80th birthday and booklaunch. With Royal Magazine & Emirate F.M
Engr. Yusuf Olanrewaju Sagaya, born on April 12, 1946, in Ilorin, Kwara State, says his engineering career was never an accident. A graduate of Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University in 1970, he has devoted nearly six decades to a profession he describes as his life's calling. Driven by a passion for mathematics and inspired by early exposure to construction through his uncle, he pursued advanced studies in Canada, earning a Master's degree in Civil and Structural Engineering from the University of Ottawa. Despite securing a promising career abroad, he returned to Nigeria in 1976 out of a conviction that he had a duty to contribute to his country's development.
He later founded YOLAS Consultants, one of Nigeria's foremost indigenous engineering firms, through which he helped deliver major infrastructure projects across the nation. Beyond engineering, Sagaya has dedicated himself to mentoring generations of professionals, training hundreds of engineers who today occupy important positions in Nigeria and around the world. His contributions to national development, engineering excellence, education, and community service have earned him prestigious national honours, including MFR and OFR, as well as numerous professional recognitions.
As the first Zanna of Ilorin, a title conferred on him by the Emir of Ilorin, Sagaya has remained a steadfast advocate of the values, culture, and progress of the Ilorin Emirate. At 80, his legacy is measured not only by the roads, bridges, and structures he helped create, but also by the countless lives he has inspired, mentored, and empowered through a lifetime of service.
EDITORIAL TEAM:
Arowona Abdulazeez Lekan , PhD – Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Misitura Lawal-Arowona PhD – Managing Editor
Omoshewo Bukola – Head of Station
Omotolani Dare – News Editor
Samuel Fayiwole – Technical Crew
Atobatele Solomon –
Graphics Editor
Eni Itan – Photo Editor
Babatope Joshua – Production Manager
CONTRIBUTORS:
Triumphant Kayode
Latifah Ibrahim-Arowona
Oluwadolapo Bamigboye
Adeyinka Adeiya
Aminat Mohammed
Maryam Haruna Muhammed
Taofeeqoh Bello
Treasure Ajayi
Fatimah Yusuf
Jumoke Dairo
Clearview Audiovisuals 2026
