Historical Background of Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji (ATA)
By:Adenekan Kabiru
Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji (ATA) , popularly known as JAH , was born on May 3, 1983 , and raised in Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area of Lagos State . He is the son of the late Hon. Dr. Elijah Olu Adewale (Dr. JAH) , a respected politician and community leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations in Ifako-Ijaiye. Early Life and Education ATA began his education at Ifako International School, Ifako , before proceeding to Government College, Ketu-Epe .
He later earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Estate Management from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and has continued his academic pursuit with postgraduate studies, currently undertaking his fourth Master’s degree in Transport Policy, Management and Urban Logistics . The Legacy of Dr. JAH His father, the late Dr. JAH, played significant roles in Lagos politics and public service.
He served as: Sole Administrator, Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government (2004–2007) Special Adviser on Education to Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (2007–2011) Member, House of Representatives (2015–2016) Founder of the Ajumose Cooperative Society in Ifako-Ijaiye Dr. JAH passed away in July 2016 at his Abuja residence, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service and grassroots development. Building His Own Path Before venturing into elective politics, Hon. Adedeji established himself as an entrepreneur with interests in the construction and entertainment industries . He also worked with the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) and founded the Young Achievers Campaign Organisation of Nigeria , a non-governmental initiative dedicated to supporting underprivileged youths through educational and empowerment programmes.
His passion for youth development brought him into political mobilisation during the administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola, where his commitment and leadership attracted the attention of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu . Notably, ATA chose to build his political identity independently. For nearly a decade, neither Asiwaju Tinubu nor Governor Fashola knew he was Dr. JAH’s son.
His family connection only became known after his father’s death in 2016. Political Career Hon. Adedeji began his public service as Special Assistant on Lands and later served as Senior Special Assistant on Works and Infrastructure , gaining practical governance experience while working closely with party leaders across the country. In 2019 , he was elected to represent Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly . He secured a second term in 2023 , emerging victorious after a keenly contested party primary involving 21 aspirants .
As Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation , he spearheaded the passage of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law , a landmark legislation aimed at strengthening transportation administration and regulation. On January 17, 2025 , he was elected Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly , becoming one of the principal officers of the legislature. Education and Community Impact Beyond legislation, ATA is widely recognised for his investment in education through the ATA Educational Initiative (ATA-EI) .
The initiative is driven by an ambitious vision of making Ifako-Ijaiye the most educated Local Government Area in Nigeria by 2037 . Its achievements include:
Over 6,000 free JAMB and GCE application forms distributed. More than 81 scholarships awarded to deserving students. Continuous educational support and youth empowerment programmes across the constituency. A Legacy of Service Hon.
Adewale Temitope Adedeji represents a new generation of leadership rooted in grassroots politics, education, and public service. Rather than relying on inherited influence, he has built his career through personal merit, community engagement, and legislative performance while sustaining the enduring legacy of his late father, Dr. Elijah Olu Adewale .