Today, Friday, October 31, 2025, i ran into two gentlemen in Ibadan, both of whom played a significant role in my professional journey. As a fresh graduate from NYSC in September 1992, I joined a budding real estate firm in December of the same year named Segun Williams & Co. Mr. Michael Olusegun Williams, now late (may his soul continue to rest in peace, Amen) was an
embodiment of all called professionalism in the real estate profession. He was a partner in that foremost Estate Surveying & Valuation firm, Dosu Fatokun & Co., with office at Arcade Building, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island where he resigned to form his firm. I became his pioneer staff.
Late Esv. Segun Williams was a man of remarkable integrity and a detailed professional, specializing in assets valuation and special projects.
He back then didn’t put much hope in the property management aspect. He preferred not to complicate things and often expressed his surprise when a surveyor would issue a notice to quit to a tenant—something he disliked. However, during my youth service, I served with Daniyan Associates in Jos, Plateau State, specifically under Mr. Ismail Ayo Lawal, the son of the renowned estate surveyor and valuer, Pa. Alhaji Ibikunle Lawal, of blessed memory. Mr. Ayo Lawal managed a thriving property management department, overseeing around 500 properties within the Jos metropolis. It was there that I first learned the fundamentals of property management, which would later equip me for more complex challenges in the field.
Segun Williams & Co, the firm I joined after, had a smaller portfolio of less than 10 properties, all of which I was responsible for managing. One of those properties was a newly built block of apartments. The landlord, Mr. Dele lived in a semi-detached house in front, while Mr. Dan, the tenant, occupied the rear flat on the upper floor. The apartment was rented out for N24,000 per annum. Although tenants in the ground-floor flat came and went, Mr. Dan remained in the property since 1993/94—an impressive 31 years! He married and raised his children in that same building.
What stood out about their relationship was the remarkable understanding between Mr. Dan, from Delta State, and the landlord from Oyo State. Despite their different backgrounds, they formed a bond that transcended typical landlord-tenant dynamics. Over the years, Mr. Dan’s children got married, and the landlord even took on the role of a father figure during their wedding ceremonies. I never imagined that, after so many years, the relationship would become so familial.
Interestingly, both Mr. Dan and the landlord were in Ibadan for a function today. They were staying at the same hotel and had arrived together. While I was at the hotel to pick up a document from the landlord, Mr. Dan spotted me and came over to greet me with a broad smile. He asked if I recognized him. At first, I didn’t make the connection, but then the landlord intervened, saying, "Bimpe, do you recognize this man?" I admitted I didn’t, and the landlord replied, "That’s your tenant, but now, my brother."
Even though Mr. Dan has since acquired his own properties, he continues to live in the same apartment, and his children, along with their spouses, have moved abroad. The depth of their relationship—one that’s lasted for decades—struck me deeply. It was a beautiful example of neighbourliness, mutual respect, and understanding that goes beyond mere transactions.
Reflecting on this, I thought about the importance of relationships that are founded on trust, respect, and genuine connection. The bond between Mr. Dan and the landlord had survived the test of time, transcended financial arrangements, and even extended to family. Their ability to manage their families and avoid conflicts, ensuring the stability of their relationship, is something truly rare.
This story serves as a lesson in the power of patience, kindness, and how genuine human connections can outlast material possessions. It’s a reminder that life is about more than just business transactions; it’s about fostering relationships that are built on understanding, respect, and shared values.
I, as the bridge that connected the duo, felt so proud and fulfilled as a professional. To God be the glory!
— Esv. Ismail Adewoyin, PhD
