Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has paid tribute to Ojima Omale, the late shoe designer popularly known as OJ Best.
OJ Best’s death was announced via his Twitter page on Sunday – a few hours after it was revealed that he suffered a “serious attack”.
In a post on his Twitter handle on Monday, Osinbajo also expressed his sadness over the passing of OJ Best.
The VP described Omale as “my young enterprising shoemaker and friend” who was dedicated to his craft.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the sudden death of Mr. Ojima Omale, aka OJBEST, 28, my young enterprising shoemaker and friend,” he wrote.
“Omale was CEO of O.J Best Footwears. He was talented, creative and dedicated to his craft.
“I never ceased to be impressed by his exertions for perfection in his products. I and many members of my team, for whom he also made shoes, will miss him, his services and unfailing good humour.
Our thoughts are with his family as we pray that God will comfort them. May his memory remain blessed.”
In 2020, Osinbajo surprised OJ Best when he sent his aides to the shoe designer who said he would make footwear for the VP.
Osinbajo, who had been at the forefront of promoting Nigerian-made products, bought a number of shoes from the entrepreneur.
The VP later invited the young Nigerian entrepreneur to Aso Rock where OJ Best took his measurements for the footwear.
