The news of the passing of Mrs. Folake Fajemisin (Mrs. Faj) came as a rude shock, as she is one of those you would think could cheat death by the sheer force of her personality. Ebullient, resourceful, brilliant, indefatigable and unapologetically loud, Mrs. Faj was a fixture in FCMB Corporate Banking.
I joined FCMB in 2006 when she was the Group Head of Manufacturing and Logistics. The nomenclature was later to change to Food, Beverages and Building Materials (FBBM) and she was later elevated to Divisional Head of Corporate Banking.
Mrs. Faj was a force to reckon with in FCMB and someone you wouldn’t want to oppose, as her strength of character and singleness of mind was unimpeachable. You could hear her laughter from a mile away and her deep voice would cannon off the glass partitions in the office. She was my Boss for 10 years and at some point was my direct supervisor. It wasn’t until her elevation to a Divisional Head that we began to miss her vast knowledge and the protective shield she provided as our Group Head.
When you have a knotty credit to present at the credit committee, you won’t bother yourself as long as Mrs. Faj will be there to bat away any opposing voice. Any issues with Fincon, Treasury or Risk Management, trust her to take on the fight headlong. Any challenge with a customer and she would be hands on to mediate and resolve the matter. She was a dynamic Manager and her creativity and relationship management skills were innate.
Mrs Faj was respected by even her seniors, as her wit and sheer intelligence always shone through. She used to watch her floor like a mother hen and was quick to repel the advances of any philandering predator that would dare show any interest in any of her wards. She would literally run the fellow off her floor with her quick tongue and deep sense of humour.
Beneath that tough facade was a soft hearted woman, who loved her husband and daughter dearly and protected her team vehemently. She was also a Pastor and that heart of a shepherd was evident in her dealings. She loved life to the fullest and had no apologies about her faith. Mrs. Faj was very close to her Dad and his influence was evident in her disposition and reasoning. She was also a successful entrepreneur and fashion buff.
At this difficult time, I pray that God will console her family and give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
Adieu, the indefatigable Mrs. Faj!
Rest in perfect peace!
Kene Okoye
It couldn’t have been written better. Thank you.
She laid the foundation of my Banking experience. A great woman she was. Her legacy will live on in the memories of the people she impacted.
Good morning
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
It is with deep sadness and profound sorrow that I write this tribute. I reflect on the time when I began my banking career, stepping into the world of finance with a sense of uncertainty and eagerness to learn. Mrs. Faj, who was my second-level supervisor at that time, became a beacon of inspiration and guidance during those early years. It was a transitional period for the team, as our unit head had just left the bank, and my colleagues and I, fresh to the industry, had to step into roles that demanded much more responsibility. Yet, under Mrs. Faj’s patient mentorship, I found my way.
She was a guiding light, always offering the right advice when I needed it most. Her wisdom and calm demeanor not only helped me grow professionally but also shaped my approach to challenges in life. I can never forget how she made me feel supported at every step of my journey, often providing insight and encouragement that extended far beyond the workplace.
There was one particular moment I will always cherish. At a time when I was still adjusting to life without my mother—whom I lost about six years before meeting Mrs. Faj—I found myself feeling an unexpected sense of comfort and care in her presence. One day, without thinking, I blurted out calling her “mummy.” It was a reflection of the deep emotional connection I felt with her, as she had unknowingly stepped into a nurturing role that I truly needed.
Mrs. Faj, you will forever hold a special place in my heart. The way you touched my life and inspired me during those early days of my career is something I will never forget. You were not just a supervisor; you were a mentor, a motherly figure, and a friend.
As you rest in peace, I pray that you continue to sing with the angels. Please do say hello to my parents and loved ones, and know that your kindness and wisdom will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.
Goodbye, Mama. You will be greatly missed.
Omowunmi Osholeye-Akeju