- He was born on September 22, 1941
Alhaji Abdulraheem Olalere Alabi Durojaye was born into the Ajibise family of Ogidigbo Area, Saki, to Alhaji Tijani Okunola Alao Durojaye and Mama Juweratu Akanke Durojaye.
- He combined Arabic and Western education
As a young boy, Durojaye studied Arabic under the famous Alfa Megida of Oke-Oro, Saki, while simultaneously pursuing Western education. -
He once trained in the traditional Aso-Oke craft
Before joining the medical profession, he had a brief stint in cloth weaving, demonstrating an early connection with traditional craftsmanship and enterprise.
- He started his working life in a hospital
In 1961, he joined the then Baptist Hospital, Saki, now Baptist Medical Centre, as a Ward Attendant (Auxiliary Nurse). He remained there until 1965. -
His political career began as an elected councillor
His journey into partisan politics was formally launched in 1976, when he was elected councillor representing Ogidigbo, Kinnikinni, Isale-Oro and adjoining areas at the then Ifedapo Local Government.
- He was involved in community service before entering politics
His public-service activities predated his political career. Among other roles, he served as PTA Chairman of N.U.D. School, Saki, between 1975 and 1979.
- He played a role in Nigeria’s Muslim organisations
Durojaye served as National Vice-President of the Muslim Youth Progressive Society of Nigeria from 1975 to 1990 and was also associated with the Abuja National Mosque Council between 1981 and 1990.
- He made the Muslim pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah in 1977
Beyond his involvement in Islamic organisations, he personally undertook the holy pilgrimage in 1977.
- He was not only a politician but also a businessman
He established Rahim Durojaye Stores, a pharmacy business registered in 1972, and later became a dealer for Mobil Oil Nigeria Limited at its Saki Sales Outlet between 1995 and 2005.
- He remained remarkably active well into old age
One of the striking details in his biography is that, despite his advanced age, he was described as being able to read unaided, write legibly, drive, travel, farm and actively participate in community activities. His interests included driving, travelling, reading, farming and community service.