Memorial Plaque Unveiled For Thames Hero Folajimi- Oliubumni Adewole

A plaque has been unveiled for the young man who died after jumping into the River Thames to trying to save a woman.

Folajimi “Jimi” Olubumni-Adewole was 20 when he went into the water in April 2021.

Unveiled during a ceremony held on Sunday, the plaque is on the site of his heroic jump, Cathedral Square by London Bridge.

Jimi’s best friend Bernard Kosia who was with him on the night: “I didn’t just lose a friend, I lost an adviser, I lost someone I could take comfort in,” he said.

“Being able to see the plaque, and being able to share this moment today with everyone, means everything to me,”

“Standing here today knowing that this is for him, and that he can live on even when I’m dead, I’m at peace,” he said, adding: “He made me into a better man. I want to say thank you, Jimi.”

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “Jimi Olubunmi-Adewole’s extraordinary act of bravery, jumping into the Thames to rescue a woman from drowning, will never be forgotten. This plaque unveiled today means the city which mourns Jimi will also never forget him.”

Jimi’s mother, Olasunkanmi, said she was “so happy” to see the tribute.

“Jimi is a hero and that’s why everyone has come here today,” she said. “I’m so grateful.”