MKO Balogun

Dr. Muhammad Kassim Olatunde Balogun, known widely as MKO Balogun, is a distinguished figure in the field of Property and Facilities Management, renowned for his transformative leadership and extensive contributions to the industry. Born and raised in Nigeria, MKO’s journey towards becoming a trailblazer in his field is marked by dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

MKO’s professional journey began after obtaining his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. His early career saw him serving in various capacities, including notable positions at reputable organizations such as UACN, UBA Plc, and Leventis Motors Nigeria. His roles ranged from Production Manager to Project Manager, demonstrating his versatility and aptitude for handling diverse responsibilities.

In 2008, MKO assumed the role of Facilities Manager at MM2, where he initiated groundbreaking initiatives that optimized terminal operations and significantly reduced operational costs. This marked the beginning of his ascent as a visionary leader in the Facilities Management sphere.

Driven by a passion for education and knowledge dissemination, MKO embarked on a parallel journey as an educator. He volunteered as a lecturer for the Masters in Facilities Management (MFM) Program at the University of Lagos, later being appointed as an Adjunct Lecturer. His commitment to enhancing the educational experience led him to introduce innovative methods such as guest lecturer series and practical projects, enriching the learning journey of his students.

MKO’s influence extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by his active involvement in professional associations and bodies. He holds esteemed memberships in organizations such as the Chartered Management Institute, Institute of Mechanical Engineers, and Nigerian Institute of Management, among others.

His contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Nigerian Top Leaders International Magazine Global Lifetime Achievement Award and the Excellence Gold Award for Economic Development of Nigeria.

As the Group MD/CEO of Global Property & Facilities International Limited (GPFI), MKO has spearheaded remarkable growth and expansion, transforming the company into a regional powerhouse with operations across multiple African countries. Under his leadership, the company has garnered acclaim as the Best Facilities Management Company in Africa, a testament to MKO’s visionary leadership and strategic acumen.

Beyond his professional achievements, MKO is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. He established the Doctor Muhammad Balogun (DMB) Foundation, dedicated to providing scholarships and support to underprivileged children across Nigeria. His philanthropic endeavors reflect his unwavering commitment to social responsibility and making a positive impact on society.

In addition to his corporate responsibilities, MKO is an active member of various committees and boards, contributing his expertise to initiatives aimed at advancing the Facilities Management industry and fostering sustainable development. He is a past national chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Facilities Engineering and Management (NIFEngM), NIFEngM is a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Facilities Management Practitioners, Nigeria (AFMPN).

Dr. Muhammad Kassim Olatunde Balogun’s exemplary career trajectory is a testament to his unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and commitment to excellence. Through his pioneering efforts, he has not only shaped the landscape of Facilities Management in Africa but also inspired future generations to strive for greatness in their endeavors.