Princess Kadijat Abike Adebisi Edionseri, the renowned businesswoman and socialite famously known as “Cash Madam,” has passed away at 89 following a brief illness in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Her death occurred on Sunday, marking the end of an era for a woman who became a symbol of entrepreneurial success and community leadership in Nigeria.
The announcement came through a heartfelt statement from her son, Dr. Adebayo Adebowale, who highlighted his mother’s significant impact on both family and community life. Edionseri, born into the Elegbede family, earned her memorable nickname “Cash Madam” through her business acumen and influential presence in Nigerian society.
Throughout her life, Edionseri built a reputation that extended far beyond her business ventures. She was known for her grace and dignity, characteristics that became hallmarks of her public persona. Her influence touched multiple generations, from her immediate family to the broader community where she served as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and young women.
The family’s statement painted a picture of a matriarch whose influence extended across multiple generations, serving as grandmother and great-grandmother while maintaining her position as a respected community leader. Her approach to life, combining business success with strong family values and religious faith, made her a unique figure in Nigerian society.
In accordance with Islamic traditions, Edionseri will be laid to rest at her residence in the prestigious Abeokuta Government Residential Area. The funeral, scheduled for Monday afternoon, is expected to draw mourners from across Nigeria’s business and social circles, reflecting the wide reach of her influence and relationships.
Her passing represents more than just the loss of a successful businesswoman; it marks the end of an era for a generation that witnessed the evolution of Nigerian enterprise and social structures. Edionseri’s journey from a traditional princess to a prominent businesswoman mirrors the transformative periods in Nigeria’s economic history.
The nickname “Cash Madam” wasn’t just a casual moniker but a testament to her business prowess and financial acumen at a time when female entrepreneurs were less common in Nigeria. Her success story has often been cited as an inspiration for women in business, proving that gender need not be a barrier to achieving significant commercial success.
Family members remember her as someone who emphasized the importance of combining commercial success with strong moral values and community responsibility. Her approach to business and life created a legacy that continues to influence newer generations of Nigerian entrepreneurs and social leaders.
Beyond her business achievements, Edionseri was known for her commitment to cultural values and religious faith, maintaining strong ties to her Islamic beliefs while navigating the modern business world. This balance between tradition and progress made her a unique figure in Nigerian society, respected across different social and cultural boundaries.
Her departure leaves a void in Nigeria’s business and social circles, but her legacy continues through the values she instilled in her family and the countless lives she touched through her community engagement and mentorship. As Nigeria continues to evolve, the story of “Cash Madam” remains a testament to the possible heights that can be achieved through determination, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
The influence of Princess Edionseri’s life extends beyond her immediate family to inspire future generations of Nigerian entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women seeking to make their mark in business while maintaining their cultural and religious values.
