Seattle Seahawks center Olusegun “Olu” Oluwatimi has made waves with his incredible journey and on-field brilliance. Born on August 5, 1999, in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Oluwatimi rose from a humble background to dominate the football field. After earning accolades in college, including the prestigious Rimington Trophy and Outland Trophy during his Michigan days, he’s been a consistent force for the Seahawks in the NFL. A quick learner with a strong work ethic, Oluwatimi’s rise is a testament to his determination and grit.

Oluwatimi’s football journey began at DeMatha Catholic High School in Maryland, where his talent started to shine. After an initial stint at the Air Force Academy, he transferred to the University of Virginia, earning a starting spot and even being a Rimington Trophy finalist. Later, he joined Michigan as a graduate transfer, where he anchored the offensive line and won multiple national awards. Now, with the Seahawks, Oluwatimi has transitioned seamlessly to the NFL, showing his adaptability and intelligence on the field.

When it comes to Oluwatimi’s roots, he proudly carries the legacy of his Nigerian heritage. His parents, Yetunde and Olufemi Oluwatimi, emigrated from Nigeria, bringing with them a strong belief in education, hard work, and community. “My parents always kind of preached education first,” Oluwatimi once shared, highlighting how their values shaped his disciplined and focused approach to life.

Religion plays a significant role in Oluwatimi’s life, too. He is a devout Christian, often leaning on his faith for strength and guidance. Growing up, his family’s values and spirituality were central to his upbringing, and they remain an integral part of who he is today.

Oluwatimi’s story is more than just football—it’s about a young man honoring his heritage, staying true to his faith, and carrying his parents’ dreams forward. Whether in the classroom or on the field, he embodies the best of his Nigerian roots and American opportunities.

Where is Olu Oluwatimi from?

Olu Oluwatimi’s story begins in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, but his roots run much deeper, reaching across the Atlantic to Nigeria. Born and raised as the youngest of six children in a hardworking Nigerian-American family, Olu grew up immersed in the rich traditions of his heritage. “God gave me victory,” is the meaning behind his full Yoruba name, Olusegun, reflecting the faith and strength that has shaped his journey. Oluwatimi’s parents, Yetunde and Olufemi, emigrated from Nigeria to the U.S., building a life filled with perseverance and hard work. His father, a taxi driver turned registered nurse, and his mother, who works with children on the autism spectrum, instilled in their children the value of resilience and education.

The Nigerian influence in Oluwatimi’s upbringing was undeniable. He spoke the Yoruba language, donned traditional Nigerian attire, and grooved to the beats of Nigerian music during his formative years. “I saw my dad, my mom, how much they worked… they were always out working,” Olu recalls, crediting his parents and older siblings for teaching him the importance of self-reliance. This cultural foundation not only shaped his character but also helped him mature into a steady, dependable leader both on and off the field.

Olu Oluwatimi’s journey from Maryland to the Air Force Academy, UVA, and finally Michigan is a testament to his determination to honor his roots and push boundaries. His Nigerian heritage, coupled with his Maryland upbringing, paints the picture of a young man deeply connected to his origins while carving out his unique path to success.