Senator Mukhail Tokunbo Abiru has crafted a remarkable path from the executive suites of Nigeria's banking sector to the hallowed halls of the National Assembly. Born on 25 March 1964 in Lagos State, this indigene of Ikorodu has become a defining figure in the political landscape of Lagos East Senatorial District.
From Banking Halls to the Senate Chamber
Before his political ascent, Abiru built an impressive career in finance. His professional journey began at Guaranty Trust Bank in 1991, where he worked for nearly a decade. He later joined First Bank of Nigeria Plc, rising to the position of Executive Director, Corporate Banking.
Between 2011 and 2013, he served as the Honourable Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State under Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. During this period, Lagos State floated an N80 billion bond that won the EMEA Finance Best Local Currency Bond Award for 2012.
In July 2016, the Central Bank of Nigeria appointed him as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of the troubled Skye Bank Plc, which was subsequently rebranded as Polaris Bank Limited under his leadership. He retired from Polaris Bank on 31 August 2020 to pursue his political ambitions.
Political Ascendancy and Legislative Impact
Abiru entered the political arena through a bye-election in December 2020, contesting under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform for the Lagos East Senatorial District seat, which he won convincingly.
In the 10th National Assembly, he was appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance & Other Financial Institutions. His financial expertise proved invaluable in this role. In March 2024, he achieved another significant milestone when he was elected Chairman of the Southern Senators' Forum.
His legislative priorities have included championing important bills such as the Copyright Bill, Franchise Regulation Bill, and amendments to the CBN Act and NDIC Act.
The 'Doing Good' Philosophy in Action
Senator Abiru has become widely known for his 'Doing Good' brand of constituency service. One of his most notable initiatives is the ₦300 million revolving loan scheme for MSMEs offered at a single-digit interest rate of 6%.
Through the SAIL Endowment Foundation, which he established with his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, he has created an Innovation Lab in Ikorodu that provides youth training in technology and innovation. His office has also facilitated numerous infrastructure projects, including school renovations, health centre upgrades, and road reconstructions across Lagos East.
Senator Abiru's estimated net worth is approximately US $7 million (about ₦50 billion), accumulated through his extensive banking career, political earnings, and various investments. Despite his substantial wealth, he maintains a focus on empowerment and constituency development rather than personal displays of affluence.
Married to Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, the senator continues to balance his family life with his public service commitments, embodying the transition from technocrat to public servant that has defined his remarkable career.
