Oluwatobi Babajide Nkem Elemo (6th February 2002 – 21st February 2025)
Oluwatobi Babajide Nkem Elemo was born on 6th February 2002 to Professor Babajide Elemo and Professor Gloria Elemo. He was the youngest of four children and the beloved brother of Laide, Demi, and Tolu. From the moment he arrived, he brought immeasurable joy to his family. Despite being significantly younger than his sisters, he was never spoiled—he was grounded, wise beyond his years, and carried himself with quiet confidence, humour, and a heart full of generosity.
Education and Academic Journey
Tobi’s education began at Napo Primary School, Abuja before moving to Shepherd Hill Primary School, Agbara. He was a naturally curious and intelligent child who loved to learn. For his secondary education, he attended King’s College, Lagos (KC), a school with a long-standing legacy of excellence and discipline. KC shaped him in many ways, instilling in him resilience, responsibility, and a strong sense of camaraderie. The friendships he built and the experiences he gathered at King’s College were a treasured part of his journey.
He also attended Oxbridge College, Ikeja Lagos, preparing for higher education abroad. His academic journey then took him to the United States, where he enrolled at Pierce College before transferring to California State University, Northridge (CSUN) to study Geology. He was deeply fascinated by the earth and its formations and was excited about the possibilities that lay ahead in his field.
A Heart of Gold
Tobi was one of the kindest and most selfless souls anyone could meet. He was generous without hesitation, always willing to lend a hand, and never sought recognition for his kindness. His classmates fondly remember him as someone who would help with homework without complaint, freely sharing his knowledge.
His generosity started from childhood—he would save his boarding school pocket money (practically an impossible thing to do in Nigerian schools) just so he could buy chin-chin or Dominoes or Oreo Oveload for his family, a small but profound act that reflected the depth of his love. Despite being the youngest, he took on responsibilities with a maturity beyond his years. His sisters could always count on him—whether it was a small favour or a crucial task, Tobi showed up for the people he loved.
A Life of Passion and Joy
Tobi was playful, funny, and endlessly creative. He had a deep love for video games, skating, hiking, and board games. His fascination with Greek mythology and love for Marvel movies made for endless conversations filled with excitement. He was always open to new experiences and foods, though his go-to comfort meals were Indomie noodles and Milo Crunchy.
Music and dancing were part of his spirit—whether he was listening to his favourite tunes or moving to the rhythm, joy radiated from him effortlessly. He was the one who made others laugh, often with his dad jokes, and he had an energy that made every space feel lighter.
Even in the face of unimaginable challenges, Tobi never stopped being who he was—a light to those around him. Before he slipped into unconsciousness, he did his best to reassure us, easing our worries the only way he knew how—by cracking jokes, making us laugh, and hiding the pain he was in.
Every healthcare worker who met him while he was still conscious spoke of how upbeat, kind, and full of humour he was, even in the most difficult moments. He had a way of lifting others, even when he was the one in need of care.
Even after he could no longer speak, his presence was still felt. Those who cared for him in his unconsciousness often said they could still feel his energy—his warmth, his kindness, his positivity. Tobi’s spirit was simply too strong to be dimmed.
Faith and Spirituality
Tobi’s Christian faith was deeply personal and important to him. He was eager to be confirmed into the Anglican faith and took complete responsibility for organising his own confirmation classes. It was a proud moment when he stood in his white robes on confirmation day, fully embracing the journey he had committed to. His belief in God was unwavering, and he carried his faith with sincerity.
A Life That Touched Many
There isn’t a single person who has anything negative to say about Tobi. He was pure-hearted, kind, and full of light. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
May Oluwatobi’s soul rest in perfect peace.