Dr. Adedoyin Ajibike Okupe, fondly known as Doyin Okupe, was a prominent Nigerian physician, politician, and public servant whose life was marked by dedication to both medicine and politics. Born on March 22, 1952, in Iperu, Ogun State, Nigeria, Doyin Okupe was the son of Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, a respected banker with Agbonmagbe Bank. His upbringing in a disciplined and academically inclined household laid the foundation for his illustrious career.
Doyin Okupe began his educational journey at St. Jude’s School in Ebute Metta, Lagos, before proceeding to Igbobi College in Yaba, Lagos, where he excelled academically. He later attended the University of Ibadan, where he studied medicine and graduated in 1976. His medical career began at St. Nicholas Hospital in Lagos, where he worked for several years before co-founding the Royal Cross Medical Centre in Lagos alongside his colleagues, Seyi Roberts and Ladi Okuboyejo. As the Managing Director of the medical center, Okupe played a pivotal role in providing quality healthcare services to the community.
In addition to his medical practice, Doyin Okupe ventured into publishing, founding Nigeria’s first health-focused newspaper, Life Mirror, in 1988. This initiative demonstrated his commitment to raising awareness about health issues and promoting public health education.
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Okupe’s foray into politics began during the Second Republic, when he contested for a seat in the House of Representatives under the platform of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983. Although he did not win, his political career gained momentum during the Third Republic, when he became the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC). In this role, he was instrumental in shaping the party’s public image and communication strategy.
Doyin Okupe’s political career reached new heights when he was appointed Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007. In this capacity, he served as a key spokesperson for the presidency, managing media relations and crafting strategic communication initiatives. His expertise in public affairs earned him another significant appointment as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan from 2012 to 2015. During his tenure, Okupe played a crucial role in articulating the administration’s policies and addressing national issues.
Despite his achievements, Okupe’s political journey was not without challenges. He faced legal and political hurdles, including detention under the regime of General Sani Abacha in 1996 and disqualification from contesting in the primaries of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) in 1998. Nevertheless, he remained resilient and continued to contribute to Nigeria’s political landscape.
In 2022, Doyin Okupe was appointed Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign under the Labour Party. His leadership and strategic insights were instrumental in mobilizing support for the party during the 2023 general elections. Okupe’s ability to navigate complex political terrains and build alliances underscored his reputation as a seasoned political strategist.
On the personal front, Doyin Okupe was married to Aduralere Okupe, and the couple was blessed with two sons, Ditan and Bolu. His family life was marked by love and support, and he often credited his wife and children for their unwavering encouragement throughout his career.
Doyin Okupe’s life was tragically cut short on March 7, 2025, when he passed away at the age of 72. His death marked the end of an era for a man who had dedicated his life to serving his country in various capacities. Tributes poured in from across Nigeria, with many highlighting his contributions to healthcare, politics, and public service.
Okupe’s legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and service. As a physician, he saved lives and improved healthcare delivery. As a politician, he championed policies and initiatives that aimed to improve the lives of Nigerians. His ability to seamlessly transition between medicine and politics demonstrated his versatility and commitment to making a difference.
Doyin Okupe’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of a life dedicated to service. His contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare and political landscapes will be remembered for years to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Doyin Okupe News
Dr. Doyin Okupe, a notable figure in Nigerian politics and public service, sadly passed away on March 7, 2025, at the age of 72. His death was attributed to prostate cancer, a condition he had battled for years. The news of his passing has drawn tributes from across the nation, with many celebrating his significant contributions to the country as a physician, public servant, and political strategist. Okupe was widely recognized for his role as the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign and for his service under the administrations of Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
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Doyin Okupe Education
Doyin Okupe began his academic journey at St. Jude’s School, Ebute Metta, Lagos, before moving on to Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, for his secondary education. He later pursued medicine at the prestigious University of Ibadan, where he graduated in 1976 with an MBBS degree. His rigorous academic training prepared him for his career as a physician, and he later transitioned into the public and political spheres, using his knowledge and expertise to serve the nation in various capacities.
Doyin Okupe Son
Okupe was the proud father of two sons, Ditan and Bolu Okupe. His younger son, Bolu, gained public attention in 2021 when he openly came out as gay. This was a bold and controversial move in a country where LGBTQ+ rights are often a sensitive topic. Doyin Okupe initially expressed his personal shock but later stood by his son, emphasizing his unconditional love and support. Okupe’s public stance showed his strength as a father and his commitment to family values amidst societal challenges.
Doyin Okupe Career
Doyin Okupe’s career spanned medicine, politics, and public service. After graduating as a medical doctor, he co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre in Lagos, providing quality healthcare services. His passion for service extended into politics during Nigeria’s Second Republic, where he contested for a seat in the House of Representatives under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). Although unsuccessful, Okupe’s political journey gained momentum when he became the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC) during the Third Republic.
Okupe served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007 and later as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan from 2012 to 2015. These roles established him as a key figure in Nigeria’s political communication, shaping the narrative of successive administrations. In 2022, he was appointed Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign under the Labour Party, leading the party’s strategic efforts during the 2023 general elections.
