The Nation Newspaper

Category: CEO

  • My driving force, by MOR 

    My driving force, by MOR 

    Messan Oluwaloseyi Rosefield, widely recognized as MOR, is a visionary entrepreneur driven by an unyielding passion to create value and transform lives.

     With a diverse portfolio spanning entertainment, fashion, real estate, and agriculture, MOR has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to innovate across multiple industries, remaining at the forefront of emerging trends.

    In an interview with The Nation, MOR opened up about the driving force behind his entrepreneurial journey: a profound desire to create something impactful and leave a legacy that others will aspire to emulate. 

    “My entrepreneurial journey began in the music industry, where I successfully managed talented artists and honed my skills in creative talent development. However, my thirst for innovation and growth led me to explore new horizons, including the world of farming,” he said.

     This unconventional pivot to agriculture proved highly successful, with MOR generating over N100 million in annual revenue, further establishing himself as a savvy business leader. 

    Today, he leads GTS Records and MOR Global Enterprise Limited, among other ventures, and has become a respected angel investor in both real sector and tech startups.

     His diverse investment portfolio underscores his commitment to empowering individuals, communities, and industries by identifying and nurturing game-changing ideas.

     “My vision is rooted in the belief that value creation and transformation can significantly improve lives and drive sustainable growth.

    “Through my work, I aim to leave a lasting impact, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators to join me in shaping the future,” MOR elaborated. 

     MOR’s success is not merely a product of his business acumen but also his unwavering dedication to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community building. 

    These qualities have earned him a reputation as a trusted mentor, partner, and friend in the entrepreneurial community.

     “Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or simply someone with a passion for innovation, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let’s connect, share ideas, and create value together, ” he said.

    When discussing what drives him as a visionary entrepreneur, MOR said: “My driving force has always been the desire to create something impactful, something that leaves a lasting legacy. I am inspired by the endless possibilities of innovation and the opportunity to transform ideas into reality. 

    “My passion for solving problems and contributing to the growth of communities motivates me to push boundaries and strive for excellence.”

    Navigating through various industries, especially during turbulent economic periods, requires more than just expertise; it demands resilience and adaptability. 

    MOR explained: “Navigating the challenges of doing business across various sectors requires resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the market. 

    Read Also: Ex-NFF boss Pinnick to speak on sports infrastructure maintenance in UI 

    “I’ve learned to embrace complexities and turn them into opportunities. This involves building strong networks, leveraging technology, and staying informed about regulatory changes. Flexibility and innovation are key, allowing my businesses to pivot when necessary.

    ‘’By maintaining a strong focus on quality and customer satisfaction, I ensure that each venture remains competitive and sustainable, even in challenging environments.” 

    As the founder of GTS Records, MOR has also made significant strides in the music industry.

    Speaking about the label’s progress, he said: “GTS Records is a newly formed label, and we’re excited about the direction we’re heading. While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I can share that we have two incredibly talented artists who are about to be unveiled. 

    “These artists bring a fresh and dynamic energy to the music scene, and we believe they have the potential to make a significant impact. We’ll be asking the media to wait for the official unveiling, where we’ll share more details about their unique styles and the exciting projects we have in the pipeline.”

    MOR also revealed the philosophy behind the label’s name: “GTS Records stands for ‘Get the Sound.’ 

    “Our label is dedicated to capturing the essence of diverse musical expressions. While our artists aren’t confined to a single genre, we’re particularly focused on taking Afrobeat—which has recently gained significant global traction—to a whole new level. We’re committed to promoting authentic sounds that resonate with audiences worldwide, and our artists are ready to bring a fresh approach to the Afrobeat genre and beyond.”

    Beyond music and entertainment, MOR has made a remarkable impact on the agricultural value chain through his aggressive and viable pursuit of adding value to the sector. 

    “I began as a real-time farmer, directly involved in the cultivation and management of crops. Over time, I expanded my role to include financing small farm holders and aggregating their produce, which allows me to support local farmers and ensure a consistent supply of high-quality crops. 

    Currently, we produce maize, cassava, and vegetables, all grown with a focus on sustainability and meeting market demands,” he added.

  • Alliy Bello: Shattering glass ceiling with transformational mindset

    Alliy Bello: Shattering glass ceiling with transformational mindset

    A young business analyst and tech guru, Alliy Bello has made a name for himself in the vast and complex business world. The youngster has shattered the glass ceiling to achieve success through hard work, transformational mindset as well as unwavering determination. RASAQ IBRAHIM writes..

    In the dynamic and competitive worlds of business and technology where ideas and creativity reign supreme, Alliy Bello has carved a niche for himself in the twin industries. He stands out not just for his audacious, innovative solutions but also for his uncompromising commitment to helping small businesses and ensuring environmental sustainability.

    Bello’s story is an inspiring story of a remarkable individual who embodies the essence of courage, determination, and unwavering focus.His journey to stardom is not merely one of success, but a web of testament to power of resilience and the pursuit of ambitious dreams.

    Imagine a youngster who defies the odds at every turn and whose determination knows no bounds. He is daring, unafraid to challenge the status quo and blaze his own trail through an uncharted territory. With every step Bello takes, he dares to dream bigger and shatter glass ceilings that stand in his way.

    But it is not just his daring nature that sets him apart—it is his laser-like focus and commitment to his goals. He knows what he wants, and he pursues it with an intensity that is unmatched. No obstacle is too great, no setback too discouraging because he clearly understands that true success is born out of perseverance and resilience.

    Bello’s life is a rich tapestry woven with experiences, education, and commitment to innovation, excellence, and growth. His journey to global recognition showcases the remarkable story of an astute custodian of business ecosystem who continues to inspire others with his achievements and dedication to excellence.

    His inspiring story serves as a pointer that success is not determined by where you come from or where you start, but by the strength of your vision and courage to pursue it. For aspiring leaders in the business world everywhere, his journey offers inspiration and guidance on how to navigate the complexities of the modern business world and emerge victorious in the face of adversity.

    Bello has consistently demonstrated a rare unique ability and capacity to blend process improvement with strategic and purposeful foresight and driving success across diverse industries.

    He holds bachelor’s degree in Political Science after which he obtained Master’s degree in International Business from Ulster University, UK and International Diploma in Business Analysis from the prestigious British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT, UK. Bello is currently pursuing a second Master’s degree in Project Management from Northeastern University in United States.

    Bello’s professional journey is defined by his incurable dedication in optimizing business processes and crafting legions of innovative solutions to intricate hallenges. His flagship achievement; the Retail Xpress, a frontline SaaS platform which was developed in collaboration with a team of gurus, is transforming the marketing industry.

    The platform, which is a game-changer in the marketing industry, was designed to automate and integrate all aspects of client management, including strategic decision-making, sales tracking, and product catalog management. It provides a unique marketplace where buyers can access only discounted products from brands, with integrated features that allow them to locate stores offering these discounts.

    It also includes a peer-to-peer balance transfer system enabling the shoppers to easily transfer funds among themselves all within one cohesive system. Through this project, Bello has revolutionized the ever-changing marketing industry by enhancing the operational capabilities of small businesses and allowing them to compete more effectively and efficiently in a digital marketplace.

    Beyond his significant contributions to business growth, Bello’s impact is also noticeable in environmental compliance and sustainability. His passion for this noble cause can be traced back to his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as the Press Cordinator in 2018, where he successfuly implemented a strategy to address the rejection of the 5 Naira note by traders in Okada community, Edo State.

    Through thorough in depth research and gap analysis, the tech guru identified the underlying reasons for this behavior and led series of outreach programs, seminar and advocacy to sensitise educate the community on economic implications and legal consequences of rejecting the currency. His spirited efforts resulted in the acceptance of the note as a legal tender, demonstrating his ability to drive change through strategic community engagement.

    His dedication to environmental issues extends to his active involvement in the Citizens’ Climate Lobby in the US, where he collaborates with others to advocate for more effective climate policies in the Congress.

    Through his published work: “Corporate Socio-political Activism Implementation Strategies: Unraveling the Success and Challenges,” and another paper coming up “Using Business Analysis to Enhance Sustainability and Environmental Compliance in Oil and Gas: A Strategic Framework for Reducing Carbon Footprint.” These scholastic paperworks cement Bello’s status as a thought leader who clearly understands the intersection between environmental stewardship and business analysis.

    He has come a long way as a frontline business analyst and environmentalist with far-reaching impacts reverberating across the world. His sojourn into the business world has a golden touch of maverick all written around it because what started fantasies have manifested in giant strides that echo not only in his motherland but across the globe.

    As he continues to chart his course in the complex business industry and the environment, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries, changing the status quo and shaping the future of the industries through the empowerment of small businesses and organizations with cutting-edge and innovative solutions and advocacy for radical policies that ensure a safer, more sustainable world.

    It’s is unarguable that he is an inspiration to aspiring leaders in the business world, and his impact on business community and environment is sure to be felt for many years to come.

  • CEO of Bioclinix Olatunde bags Golden role model award

    CEO of Bioclinix Olatunde bags Golden role model award

    The CEO of Bioclinix Diagnostics Care Limited, Dr Issac Olatunde, has been honoured with the prestigious Golden Role Model Award by the Nigeria Youth Advocacy for Good Governance Initiative (NYAGGI).

    This recognition, the group said, was based on what it described as his exceptional contributions to healthcare, youth empowerment, philanthropy, and societal development in Nigeria.

    NYAGGI, a prominent youth advocacy group dedicated to promoting good governance and social progress, selected Olatunde for the award in acknowledgment of his commitment to providing high-quality and affordable healthcare services.

    It said under his leadership, Bioclinix has made significant strides in enhancing healthcare accessibility, particularly for underserved communities, setting a benchmark for excellence in the medical diagnostics field. Olatunde was also lauded for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in empowering youths.

    




     His initiatives have provided countless young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive, contributing to the nation’s broader socio-economic development.

    “We have taken note of Dr. Olatunde’s passionate commitment to qualitative and affordable healthcare, his efforts in youth empowerment, and his generous contributions to the less privileged,” said Comrade Alabi Akeem Abiodun, National Coordinator of NYAGGI. 
    




    “He embodies the values we advocate for—dedication to service, humanity, and societal progress. It is our honor to present him with the Golden Role Model Award.”

    Olatunde expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising that it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to invest in the future of Nigeria. 
    




    “This award is a reflection of the collective efforts of my team at Bioclinix and our shared commitment to making a difference. I am deeply honored and motivated to continue our work in providing quality diagnostics healthcare services and supporting the youth of our nation,” he said. 

    Dr. Olatunde’s recognition by NYAGGI highlights his significant contributions to healthcare and community development in Nigeria. 
    




    His efforts have made a lasting impact and continue to inspire others, setting an example of dedication and service.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Drew Uyi wows Leeds’ real estate academy participants on secrets of branding
    
			
    Drew Uyi wows Leeds’ real estate academy participants on secrets of branding
    
			
    

    FIFA-licensed agent and global brand expert, Drew Uyi, has unpacked the key slants in the real estate business at a recent Investors Forum dinner organised in London, United Kingdom, by Samuel Leeds, a best selling author and UK property investor
    




    Drew Uyi’s presence as a branding guru at the event attended by at least 500 successful realtors in the UK, opened up a different dimension of the entrepreneurship to the hundreds of investors.
    




    The UK-born Nigerian influencer created an absolutely electric atmosphere at his entrance, which he carried into his speech after mounting the podium, as well as the robust engagements with the other guests, who were not shy to share the critical highlights of the occasion on social media as takeaways.
    




    According to Daniel Dagger, UK Property Advisor of the Year and Founder of DDRE Global, Drew Uyi led the investors on the journey of personal branding for optimum global exposure.
    




    The major highlights of the engagement with Drew Uyi at the Samuel Leeds investors dinner comprise the importance of branding yourself effectively, investing in and building your brand and the need to bring personality into your work, beyond just financial resources. 
    




    Read Also: Property expert Samuel Leeds to host Drew Uyi as guest speaker at UK investment dinner
    




    Other takeaways include leveraging other people’s media to amplify your reach, the power of consistency and maintaining a strong and positive reputation. 
    




    Drew Uyi himself took to social media to underscore some of the secrets of his personal journey which he shared with the experts at the dinner.
    




    “Honored to speak at the @samuelleeds academy dinner and share my journey with an amazing group of people. The key to success? Consistency in your efforts, adding real value to others, and blocking out the noise of negativity. 
    




    “Branding yourself effectively is crucial, and remember, personality goes a long way in business. It’s not just about resources; it’s about reputation and persistence. If you are ready to elevate your game, drop me a message. Let’s build greatness together,” Drew Uyi said.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    TMY Empire has revolutionised digital media in Nigeria – Ajayi Solomon
    
			
    TMY Empire has revolutionised digital media in Nigeria – Ajayi Solomon
    
			
    

    CEO of Tree Money Yard Empire, Ajayi Solomon, has said the digital media company is transforming the Nigerian entertainment industry with its innovative approach. 
    




    Founded in 2011, Solomon said TMY Empire has grown into a multifaceted business empire, offering a range of services including music production, video, photography, podcast production, Public Relations and management services.
    




    Having overcome numerous challenges to build a thriving business empire. Ajayi Solomon said,  “I started TMY Empire in 2011, I never won by luck, I definitely knew I am going to become a solution someday”.
    




    He said TMY Empire thrives on  innovative ideas and expertise in digital media, which have earned recognition it from top tech companies like Facebook and Google.
    




    ” As a Meta Verified Business Partner, TMY Empire has gained access to cutting-edge digital tools and resources, further fueling its creativity and innovation”.
    




    Read Also: TMY Empire has impacted digital media space – Ajayi Solomon
    




    According to Ajayi Solomon, “what sets TMY Empire apart is its uniqueness and innovative ideas”, adding that, ” we harp on the importance of having a focus and skill acquisition for upcoming entrepreneurs. Young entrepreneurs should acquire skills before starting out. They should ensure they study and be professional in the way they conduct their business”.
    




    Continuing, the CEO of TMY Empire said the company’s achievements are a testament to its commitment to excellence, pointing out that,  “with over 10 years experience, we have been recognized as one of the leading digital media companies in Nigeria, with a reputation for delivering high-quality services.
    




    “I can proudly say TMY News has over 17 billion results in 0.30 seconds keyword search on Google. That makes TMY News one of the most keyword search in Africa,” he added.
    




    He said his vision is to innovate and contribute more to the entertainment industry in Africa, enabling upcoming generations to generate revenue and succeed.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Anuoluwapo Ojomo: Uncovering the Growing Threat of Elder Financial Exploitation
    
			
    Anuoluwapo Ojomo: Uncovering the Growing Threat of Elder Financial Exploitation
    
			
    

    Anuoluwapo Ojomo, an anti-fraud expert, speaks with OLUKOREDE YISHAU on Elder Financial Exploitation and the growing threat around  it. Excerpts:
    




     Your work in the field of business risk, anti-fraud, and compliance is well known. Could you begin by explaining why Elder Financial Exploitation (EFE) is such a pressing issue today?
    




    Thank you for having me. Elder Financial Exploitation is indeed a critical issue, and it’s one that is unfortunately on the rise globally. As the population of older adults increases, so does their vulnerability to various forms of abuse, with financial exploitation being one of the most severe. This type of exploitation involves the unauthorized use or theft of an elder’s financial resources, and it’s particularly insidious because it often goes undetected for long periods. The perpetrators can be anyone—from family members and caregivers to financial advisors and scam artists.
    




    What factors make older adults particularly vulnerable to this kind of exploitation?
    




    There are several factors that contribute to the vulnerability of older adults. Age-related issues such as dementia, cognitive decline, and physical frailty can significantly impair their ability to manage their finances or even recognize when something is wrong. Additionally, many older adults are socially isolated, which makes them easy targets for exploitation. Emotional dependence on a caregiver or financial dependence of the abuser on the elder can also create a dynamic where exploitation becomes more likely. In less developed regions, factors such as poverty, discriminatory inheritance systems, and weak legal protections exacerbate the problem.
    




     It’s troubling to hear how widespread this issue is. How prevalent is Elder Financial Exploitation globally, and how does Nigeria compare?
    




     Globally, the statistics are alarming. According to a World Health Organization review, 15.7% of people aged 60 and older were victims of some form of abuse in the previous year. Financial exploitation, in particular, affects 5 to 10% of older people worldwide. In Nigeria, the issue is just as concerning, though it is likely underreported. Cultural factors, such as the stigma associated with abuse and the lack of robust reporting mechanisms, contribute to this underreporting. Additionally, in some cases, financial exploitation in Nigeria can involve severe accusations like witchcraft, which are used to justify the illegal seizure of property and assets from the elderly.
    




    Read Also: Financial Advisors Supporting Small Business Owners’ Success
    




    What are some of the signs of Elder Financial Exploitation that people should be aware of?
    




    There are several warning signs to look out for. These include unusual changes in banking practices, such as large withdrawals or transfers between accounts, the sudden appearance of new “friends” or advisors who are overly involved in the elder’s finances, and the unexplained disappearance of valuables or property. Other signs include changes in mood, such as increased anxiety or depression, and unexpected revisions to legal documents like wills or power of attorney. Often, these changes are subtle, so it’s important for family members and trusted individuals to stay vigilant.
    




    Given the seriousness of this issue, what steps can be taken to prevent Elder Financial Exploitation?
    




    Prevention is key, and it starts with awareness. Families and caregivers should be educated on the risks and signs of exploitation. It’s also crucial to establish clear communication and regular financial monitoring to detect any irregularities early. On a larger scale, financial institutions need to adopt advanced analytics and anti-fraud measures to identify and prevent exploitation. Governments can also play a role by strengthening legal frameworks and support systems to protect older adults.
    




    You’ve mentioned the use of advanced analytics in combating this issue. Could you elaborate on how this works?
    




     Absolutely. Advanced analytics involves using sophisticated algorithms and data analysis techniques to detect patterns of financial behavior that might indicate exploitation. For example, sudden large transactions or changes in spending habits can be flagged for further investigation. These systems can also help in predicting potential vulnerabilities, allowing institutions to take preventive measures. The goal is to offer what I call “Fraud Analytics as a Service” (FaaS) to financial institutions, enabling them to combat Elder Financial Exploitation more effectively.
    




    This seems like a crucial step forward. What are your hopes for the future in terms of addressing Elder Financial Exploitation?
    




    My hope is that we see a significant reduction in cases of Elder Financial Exploitation as awareness grows and preventive measures are implemented. It’s important that we create an environment where older adults feel protected and valued, and where their financial resources are safeguarded. This will require collaboration across sectors—from financial institutions and law enforcement to families and community organizations. Ultimately, I believe that with the right tools and strategies, we can make a real impact in protecting our elders from this form of abuse.
    




    Thank you, Ms. Ojomo, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your work is undoubtedly making a difference.
    




    Thank you for giving me the opportunity to discuss this important topic. I hope this conversation helps to shed light on the seriousness of Elder Financial Exploitation and inspires action to prevent it.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Organisational growth hinged on leader’s vision, says Obisesan
    
			
    Organisational growth hinged on leader’s vision, says Obisesan
    
			
    

    Leadership coach, Tioluwanimi Obisesan, has emphasised the significance of a leader’s vision and capabilities on organisational growth and success.
    




    Obisesan said her experience as a social and creative entrepreneur has reinforced the belief in the critical role of a leader’s vision for organisational growth and success.
    




    “Through my work with Limitless Leadership Eversion, founded in 2019, and the establishment of the brand and project development firm, Elevate Consortium, I’ve seen firsthand how a visionary leader can inspire a team to achieve remarkable feats and propel an organization towards success and sustainable growth.
    




    “I strongly believe that the success of any team or organisation depends deeply on the vision and capabilities of its leader,” she said.
    




    She also noted how personal success can positively affect team success, stating that a leader must first achieve personal success as it is a “powerful catalyst for overall success.”
    




    This perspective, she said, emphasised the importance of individual accomplishment in driving collective achievement.
    




    Read Also; Protests: Police recover 15 pump action rifles, arrest 23 in Niger
    




    “In 2022, Elevate Consortium, which serves an international clientele in Nigeria, the UK, USA, Russia, Canada, Ghana, and South Africa, and The Tioluwanimi Obisesan Coaching expressions were established, Limitless Leadership Eversion gained more significant attention from that year, leading to the attraction of an audience of over 16,000 young people by 2024.
    




    “My personal success in these new expressions not only inspired the Limitless Leadership Eversion Team but also propelled our collective efforts to bridge the leadership gap across social systems. Personal success, when openly shared with a team, can be a powerful catalyst for overall success.
    




    “Through my journey, I’ve realised that personal achievements and milestones can inspire and motivate team members. Plus, the experiences and insights gained through personal success can be translated into strategies and best practices that benefit the entire team and organisation,” she stated.
    




    Obisesan stressed that leaders shouldn’t be isolated figures but allow followers to voice their opinions.
    




    “In my various roles within impact and profit-driven organizations, I’ve learnt to prioritize creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is valued and empowered to contribute their ideas. Emphasis on the word “learnt,” because leaders often focus on the vision, sometimes tuning out others’ opinions.
    




    “However, I’ve always been intentional about the selection of my team members to ensure they never withhold feedback from me, and learning from my experiences with them, I’ve had to develop robust feedback systems.
    




    “One of our feedback systems involves the process of developing new projects at Elevate Consortium. We have made it a point to encourage open discussions and actively seek input from team members and clients.
    




    “This approach not only enhanced the quality of our decisions and results but also instilled a sense of ownership within the team and fueled an active sense of involvement with clients, ultimately contributing to our collective success.
    




    “The truth is that collective and consistent success will be achieved when every individual feels heard and has a stake in shaping the organization’s journey,” she said.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Why I expanded into wine importation – Paragon Prime Realty boss, Ekeledirichukwu
    
			
    Why I expanded into wine importation – Paragon Prime Realty boss, Ekeledirichukwu
    
			
    

    Nigerian businessman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Paragon Prime Realty, Igbonekwu Ekene, popularly known as Ekeledirichukwu, has explained the secret behind his diversification into premium wine importation.
    




    Ekeledirichukwu, has built his reputation in Nigeria’s real estate space as an emerging force but his expansion into wine importation reflects a broader strategy shaped by innovation, lifestyle branding and global exposure.
    




    The entrepreneur recently ventured into sourcing premium sweet wines from Spain for the Nigerian market, marking a deliberate move beyond property into lifestyle-focused businesses.
    




    Ekeledirichukwu’s decision to enter wine importation is rooted in his belief that sustainable wealth in today’s economy is built through diversification. While Paragon Prime Realty focuses on property development, sales and investment opportunities, the wine business allows him to tap into Nigeria’s growing appetite for premium lifestyle products, in an ever-growing hospitality economy.
    




    His entrepreneurial mindset was forged early in life. Ekene was studying Mechanical Engineering at a Federal University of Technology but was forced to discontinue his education due to financial challenges. Rather interpreting it literally as a setback, he says it became the foundation of his business journey.
    




    “Those moments shaped my resilience and strengthened my belief that setbacks are temporary,” he said, reflecting on his journey into business.
    




    Founded in 2022, Paragon Prime Realty was created to simplify property ownership and provide trustworthy real estate opportunities for individuals and investors. However, Ekeledirichukwu soon recognised that real estate alone could not fully express his vision of blending wealth creation with lifestyle. This realisation pushed him to explore wine importation as a complementary venture that connects assets with experience.
    




    The move was not without challenges. He started out with a limited capital, not waiting for institutional funding or industry support that may never come, while also facing the pressure of operating across multiple sectors.
    




    Despite moments of doubt, he remained focused on his long-term vision, driven by discipline, consistency and a refusal to settle for mediocrity.
    




    Today, Igbonekwu Ekene works with a small but efficient team and strategic partners across Nigeria and Europe, enabling him to bridge local demand with international supply. He describes his leadership style as “collaborative, growth-driven, and results-oriented.”
    




    Unveiling his five-year growth path, Ekeledirichukwu reveals that he plans to strengthen international partnerships, expand into property development and hospitality, and build more lifestyle-focused brands.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Habeeb Okunola bags CEO award, celebrates birthday
    
			
    Habeeb Okunola bags CEO award, celebrates birthday
    
			
    

    High chief Habeeb Okunola, the chief executive officer of TILT groups has been awarded the most respected CEO (business) at the African Most Respected CEO award in Nairobi, Kenya on the 1st of August.
    




    At the well-attended event held at the Concord Hotel, Nairobi, Habeeb whose hands are littered across many pies of business like real estate, construction, agriculture, power, procurement, general contract, oil and gas, mining, logistics, and a host of others, was ably represented by Bashir Hamzat who picked the award on his behalf and thanked the organizers for acknowledging his giant strides in business also as a change maker in Nigeria’s business climate.
    




    For the Akosin of Yoruba land the award is coming a day before his birthday on the 2nd of August which signifies a promising omen for him.
    




    While reading his acceptance speech, he said: “I’m truly honoured to accept this award. Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this journey. In a world where every minute counts, we often overlook the significance of a mere 24 hours, because 24 hours is indeed a long time to not achieve anything. Let us continue to embrace collaboration as the cornerstone of innovation, recognising that together, we possess the power to shape the future. Thank you once again for this incredible honour.”
    




    Read Also: VIDEO: Protesters scramble for sausage rolls, water at Ojota
    




    While celebrating his forty-third birthday today, the graduate of philosophy from the University of Lagos has disclosed that he would be having a private celebration and will spend the day offering prayers to his creator with the invitation of clergymen who would pray and thank God for sparing his life till this very moment.
    




    Sources say he would later in the evening play host to his close circle of friends at his Lagos mansion which will round off the celebration where everyone will eat and drink.
    




    Okunola who is an alumnus of Harvard Business School and London Business School, reiterated his love for philanthropy and development within his immediate environment.
    




    He founded the Habeeb Okunola Foundation HOF which caters to the downtrodden; providing education and business grants to the needy, women empowerment, and a host of others.
    




    Through the foundation, many have benefited and still benefitting from his milk of kindness using proceeds from his business, putting smiles on the faces of those around him.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Navigating the Path to Success: Guidance for Emerging Risk Managers, by Ever Obi
    
			
    Navigating the Path to Success: Guidance for Emerging Risk Managers, by Ever Obi
    
			
    

    In an increasingly volatile financial landscape, risk management expert Mr. Ever Obi has offered crucial advice to his younger colleagues on excelling in the profession. Obi, a former Managing Director of Zedvance Finance Limited, emphasized the challenges financial institutions face in finding truly competent risk management leaders.
    




    “I have attempted to make this journey myself numerous times, often settling for managers who, while not perfect, have the right foundation and are bright and open-minded enough to receive mentorship,” Obi said.
    




    Obi outlined several key qualities and practices that young risk managers should adopt. First, he stressed the importance of embracing and developing an affinity for their role, regardless of how they entered the profession. He also highlighted the necessity of being addicted to learning. “If the prospect of learning and discovering new things does not excite you, then you will not succeed as a risk manager,” Obi noted.
    




    According to Obi, young risk managers should seek out well-grounded senior risk managers and tap into their wealth of experience. He urged them to ask questions and master the art of listening. “You learn more when you are listening than when you are talking,” he said. Obi recalled his time as a credit analyst at Access Bank, where he eagerly engaged with senior colleagues to gain different perspectives and develop the insights needed for a successful career in risk management.
    




    Obi also encouraged young risk managers to be goal-oriented from the start of their careers. “You must be diligent, efficient, and solve problems. This mentality is like a footballer who stays behind after training to practice; it will naturally make you better than your peers,” he said.
    




    He called attention to the vastness of the risk management profession and advocated for gaining experience across its different areas. “Risk management is arguably the broadest department in a financial institution. I was fortunate to be redeployed multiple times, which allowed me to understand various risk areas beyond credit,” Obi explained. His diverse experiences included roles in Risk Analytics, Credit Risk Modelling and Optimization, and interactions with regulators and rating agencies. These opportunities equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the field, preparing him for leadership roles.
    




    Obi urged young risk managers to invest in self-improvement through continuous learning and acquiring new certifications. “Personal development is like an insurance cover for your career. Certifications and degrees may seem unnecessary now, but they are crucial when opportunities arise,” he said.
    




    Young risk managers must also seek leadership roles when they are ready. “Do not settle for being a junior forever. Spend time improving yourself and doing actual work. Accept leadership positions when you are prepared, and adapt your approach based on your experiences,” Obi advised.
    




    Finally, Obi emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge, enjoying the profession, and building a network of risk management peers. “Discuss risk management, speak its language, work and learn together, read and exchange books. Take advantage of the blessings of youth,” he concluded.