Imran Saro Gobir Biography
Imran Saro Gobir, born in December 1996 in Lagos, Nigeria, is a Nigerian civil engineer, entrepreneur, and business executive. He holds Nigerian nationality and has built a solid reputation in infrastructure development and project management. As Managing Director of Raith Nigeria Limited, he leads efforts in key sectors that support national progress, including transportation networks, energy solutions, and utility services. His professional path combines strong academic credentials with practical leadership, making him a notable figure among young Nigerian professionals.
Gobir recently attracted public interest following his engagement to Olamide Raheeda Okoya, daughter of prominent industrialist Alhaji Razaq Akanni Okoya, the Aare of Lagos. This development highlights the union of two respected families and reflects shared commitments to faith, legacy, and community advancement. His journey illustrates how dedication to education and innovation can drive meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
Imran Saro Gobir Early Life and Education
Imran Saro Gobir entered the world in December 1996 in Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in a family that placed high importance on education, discipline, and public service. His lineage connects to influential figures in industry and diplomacy. On his maternal side, he is linked to the late Alhaji Umar Ayinla Saro, who held the traditional title of Sardauna of Ilorin and earned national recognitions such as OFR and CON for his work in business and community development. His paternal connections include the late Ambassador Abubakar Garba Gobir, a distinguished diplomat and civil servant who served Nigeria in various capacities after independence.
Life in Lagos during his formative years introduced him to the realities of a bustling commercial hub with significant infrastructure needs. This environment likely sparked his interest in engineering solutions that could address everyday challenges. Seeking quality training, Gobir pursued studies overseas. He attended Coventry University in the United Kingdom, where he completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering with first-class honours. His exceptional performance earned him the David Sulley Memorial Prize from the department, an award that acknowledged both his academic excellence and future promise in the profession.
Building on this foundation, Gobir advanced to University College London (UCL), where he obtained a Master of Engineering degree. He specialized within the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering. While at UCL, he took on the role of Innovation Ambassador, helping to promote creative approaches to engineering problems and sustainable development. His academic focus covered important topics such as structural analysis, advanced construction materials, concrete technology, project management, cost control, and building information modelling. He also developed expertise as an energy strategist, exploring ways to incorporate environmentally responsible practices into large-scale projects. These experiences prepared him well for the complex demands of infrastructure work in Nigeria and beyond.
Throughout his studies, Gobir demonstrated resilience as an international student. He adapted successfully to different learning environments while maintaining high standards. His time abroad not only strengthened his technical skills but also broadened his perspective on global best practices in civil engineering. This international exposure has continued to influence his approach to leadership and project delivery back home.
Imran Saro Gobir Career
Imran Saro Gobir directs operations at Raith Nigeria Limited as its Managing Director. The firm specializes in infrastructure projects across transportation, energy, and utilities. Under his guidance, the company has delivered initiatives that improve road connectivity, install solar-powered lighting systems, and enhance utility services in various parts of Nigeria. Notable contributions include solar street lighting work in Abuja as well as road design and related developments in Lagos and Taraba State. These projects play a direct role in addressing critical gaps in national infrastructure.
His responsibilities encompass strategic planning, project oversight, and the integration of modern technologies into construction processes. Proficiency in building information modelling allows him to optimize designs, improve efficiency, and maintain cost discipline without compromising quality. Gobir’s background as an energy strategist supports the company’s focus on sustainable solutions, particularly in renewable energy applications that help reduce dependence on conventional power sources. This approach aligns with Nigeria’s goals for expanded access to reliable electricity and better transportation systems amid growing urbanization.
In addition to his Nigerian base, Gobir serves as a director for Raith Global Ltd, a related entity registered in the United Kingdom. This international dimension enables him to apply global standards and innovations to local contexts. His leadership emphasizes ethical practices, team collaboration, and community benefits such as job creation and skills transfer. Through Raith Nigeria Limited, he contributes to economic activity by supporting local contractors and workers on various sites.
Gobir’s career stands out for its blend of academic achievement and hands-on execution. The David Sulley Memorial Prize and his Innovation Ambassador role at UCL reflect early recognition of his potential. He has positioned Raith as a forward-looking company capable of handling demanding projects while upholding high safety and environmental standards. His work reflects a commitment to long-term national development rather than short-term gains. As Nigeria continues to invest in infrastructure, professionals like Gobir help translate policy objectives into tangible results on the ground.
Imran Saro Gobir Personal Life
Imran Saro Gobir leads a balanced personal life centered on family, faith, and professional duties. He draws inspiration from his family’s history of service and leadership. The Saro and Gobir lineages carry cultural and historical weight, connecting him to traditions of industry, diplomacy, and community involvement in both Yoruba and Hausa heritage, particularly through Ilorin and Gobir roots. Islamic principles guide his values and decision-making.
In April 2026, public attention turned to his personal life with the announcement of his engagement to Olamide Raheeda Okoya. The union brings together the Okoya family, known for industrial achievements, and the Gobir-Saro family, recognized for public contributions. Family statements described the engagement as a celebration grounded in shared faith, mutual respect, and common purpose. The announcement came as a joyful addition to a birthday celebration within the Okoya household.
Gobir balances time between Lagos and London to manage business interests while staying connected to family. He maintains a low public profile outside of professional and milestone events, preferring to focus on meaningful relationships and future planning. His lifestyle reflects the discipline instilled during his upbringing and academic years.
Imran Saro Gobir Recent News
As of April 2026, Imran Saro Gobir features prominently in social and traditional media following the public announcement of his engagement to Olamide Raheeda Okoya. Alhaji Razaq Akanni Okoya and Chief Mrs. Folashade Okoya shared the news warmly, calling the engagement a cherished gift coinciding with the latter’s birthday. The double celebration, including an engagement ceremony, took place on April 25, 2026.
The announcement highlighted the coming together of two prominent Nigerian families. Coverage emphasized themes of legacy, faith, and unity. Messages from both sides expressed gratitude and prayers for a blessed marriage filled with love, peace, and prosperity. While wedding details remain private, the engagement has generated positive conversations across Nigerian society about family values and intergenerational connections. Gobir continues his professional responsibilities amid this personal milestone.
Conclusion
Imran Saro Gobir exemplifies the potential of Nigeria’s educated youth who channel knowledge and leadership into practical development. His academic success at Coventry University and University College London provided a strong technical base, which he now applies through Raith Nigeria Limited to deliver infrastructure that matters to everyday citizens. Family heritage, professional drive, and recent personal developments all contribute to a well-rounded profile of a committed individual.
Looking ahead, Gobir’s contributions to transportation, energy, and utilities will likely expand as Nigeria pursues ambitious growth targets. His story serves as motivation for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs to combine excellence with service to country. With continued focus and the support of strong family networks, he remains positioned to achieve further impact in the years to come.
FAQs
Who is Imran Saro Gobir?
Imran Saro Gobir is a Nigerian civil engineer serving as Managing Director of Raith Nigeria Limited, a company involved in infrastructure projects across transportation, energy, and utilities.
When and where was Imran Saro Gobir born?
Imran Saro Gobir was born in December 1996 in Lagos, Nigeria.
What is Imran Saro Gobir’s educational background?
He earned a first-class honours degree in Civil Engineering from Coventry University, receiving the David Sulley Memorial Prize, and later completed a Master of Engineering at University College London while acting as an Innovation Ambassador.
What does Raith Nigeria Limited focus on?
Raith Nigeria Limited undertakes projects in road construction, solar energy installations, and utility services in locations including Lagos, Taraba State, and Abuja.
What recent personal development has Imran Saro Gobir experienced?
In April 2026, his engagement to Olamide Raheeda Okoya, daughter of Alhaji Razaq Akanni Okoya, was announced, marking the union of two notable Nigerian families.
How does Imran Saro Gobir support Nigeria’s progress?
Through leadership at Raith Nigeria Limited, he advances infrastructure that improves road networks, energy access, and sustainable development while creating employment opportunities in local communities.