Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (born March 8, 1983) is a multi-talented Nigerian figure known for his work as an architect, activist, and politician. He has designed several landmark buildings, been a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights. He is currently the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party for Lagos State in the upcoming 2023 gubernatorial election. His dedication to public service and commitment to positive change in Nigeria have earned him respect and admiration.
Early Life
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is a prominent Nigerian lawyer and entrepreneur, he was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into a family of distinguished legal professionals, with his father, George Rhodes-Vivour, serving as a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, and his mother, Nkechi Rhodes-Vivour, being a well-known lawyer and human rights activist in the country.
Growing up in such a family, Gbadebo was exposed to the legal profession from an early age, and his parents’ influence played a significant role in shaping his career path.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour began his academic journey at the prestigious Corona Primary School in Ikoyi, Lagos. He received a quality education that laid a solid foundation for his future endeavours. He later attended King’s College, Lagos, for his secondary education, where he continued to excel academically and was actively involved in various extracurricular activities.
After completing his secondary education, Gbadebo went on to pursue a degree in Law at the University of Lagos, where he further honed his legal knowledge and skills. At the university, he demonstrated exceptional academic performance and leadership qualities, earning him recognition and respect from his peers and lecturers. Upon graduating from the university, Gbadebo proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, where he underwent rigorous legal training and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005.
With his legal qualifications and passion for justice, Gbadebo began his career as a Counsel at Kusamotu & Kusamotu law firm, where he handled various legal matters and gained valuable experience in the legal profession. He later joined the Lagos State Ministry of Justice as a State Counsel, contributing his legal expertise to developing the state’s legal system.
Career
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour‘s legal career has been notable for his contributions to developing the Nigerian legal system. After gaining valuable experience as a Counsel at Kusamotu & Kusamotu law firm and as a State Counsel at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, he joined the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja, where he played a vital role in the fight against financial crimes in Nigeria.
He was appointed the Legal Adviser to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the leadership of Nuhu Ribadu, where he worked tirelessly to ensure that perpetrators of financial crimes faced the total weight of the Law.
Following his success at the EFCC, Gbadebo was appointed Senior Adviser to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Nigeria and later as a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Economic Matters in the Office of the Vice President. In these roles, he continued to make significant contributions to developing the Nigerian legal system, particularly in economic policy and financial regulation.
Apart from his legal career, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is also a successful entrepreneur and investor. He is the founder of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, one of the leading investment banks in Nigeria, which has financed several significant projects in the country. His business acumen and entrepreneurial skills have earned him recognition and respect in the Nigerian business community.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour‘s legal and entrepreneurial careers have been marked by his commitment to excellence and his contributions to developing Nigeria’s legal and economic systems.
Political Career
Starting his political career in 2017, Rhodes-Vivour contested the Ikeja Local Government Area chairmanship under the KOWA party but lost the candidate of the incumbent APC.
Again in 2019, he contested for the senate seat to represent Lagos west under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This time, he came second in the final polls, losing to the incumbent senator and contestant under All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate Adeola Yayi Olamilekanola by 243,516 votes to Adeola’s 323,817.
These results were challenged in court by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, citing electoral violations and violence. However, he lost the case in court.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is Labour party gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming 2023 Lagos state gubernatorial elections. Initially, he was supposed to contest under PDP but polled out before primaries.
Immediately after leaving PDP, he moved to Labour Party while contesting for the party’s governorship primaries. He won 111 votes to defeat former All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Moshood Salvador, who got 102 votes.
Personal Life
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is a successful professional and a loving husband and father. He is married to Dr Ify Rhodes-Vivour. He is committed to his family and prioritizes spending time with them.
Aside from his family life, Rhodes-Vivour is also deeply committed to philanthropy and has been involved in numerous initiatives to promote education, health, and economic development in Nigeria. He believes in giving back to his community and has used his success and influence to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Through his philanthropic efforts, Rhodes-Vivour has helped to provide access to quality education and healthcare for underprivileged communities in Nigeria. He has also supported various economic empowerment programs, providing training and funding for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Awards & Nomination
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has garnered numerous accolades for his impressive achievements in the legal profession and his contributions to the economic development of Nigeria. His hard work and dedication have been recognized both locally and internationally.
In 2011, he was named one of the “40 Under 40 Nigerian Leaders” by The Guardian newspaper. This was a notable recognition of his contributions to the legal profession and his commitment to positively impacting Nigerian society.
Forbes Africa has also recognized Rhodes-Vivour as one of the “30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs in Africa.” This is a testament to his innovative spirit and his success as a business leader, and it highlights the significant impact he has made in the African business landscape.
Social Media
- Instagram @grvlagos
- Twitter @GRVlagos
Net Worth
As of 2023, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour‘s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.