The Nation Newspaper

Category: CEO

  • Philanthropist Onaiwu bags prestigious doctorate, fellowship

    Philanthropist Onaiwu bags prestigious doctorate, fellowship

    CEO of RichieRich Global Group of Companies Dr. Richie John Onaiwu has been bestowed with an honorary doctorate in Leadership and Business Management by America University of Peace & Governance (AUPG), Texas, USA. 

    The occasion also coincided with Richie’s investiture as a distinguished Fellow (FCIPG) of the esteemed Chartered Institute of Peace and Governance (CIPG).

    As the influential Chair of RichieRich Global Group, Richie has been at the forefront of collaborative initiatives with local authorities, making significant strides in addressing societal challenges such as homelessness, real estate, and healthcare provision. 

    His contributions extend beyond business, creating job opportunities and paving the way for the international success of numerous Nigerian talents in the entertainment industry.

    The investiture at the 13th Edition of the PAN African Leadership Symposium & Honours in Kigali, Rwanda, drawing a distinguished audience that included H.E Dr. Morie Komba Manye, High Commissioner for Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, and Major General Dayo Olukoju (retired), among other notable leaders also honored as Fellows.

    Richie’s honorary doctorate from AUPG was conferred by Professor Kevin Nwanna Uchechukwa while the prestigious Fellowship of CIPG was bestowed upon him by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Johnathan Ojadeh, Global President & Chairman Supreme Council, UNIPGC.

    The accolades by AUPG and CIPG symbolize recognition for individuals who have made substantial contributions to leadership and the advancement of peace. During his acceptance speech, Dr. Richie expressed profound pride, stating, “It is an enormous honor to receive this conferment from America University of Peace & Governance and the Chartered Institute of Peace and Governance.”

    Reflecting on his immigrant experience, Onaiwu emphasised the deep connection to exemplary leadership and underscored the importance of individual responsibility in inspiring those in vulnerable positions. He called for a continued commitment to peace and effective governance.

    The celebratory event concluded with a gala dinner, uniting leaders from diverse fields, and a poignant tour of the city of Kigali, including a visit to the genocide memorial site.

    Onaiwu’s global philanthropy and dedication to community welfare shine brightly through these prestigious accolades, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

  • North Central Youths celebrate Christian

    North Central Youths celebrate Christian

    The stories of great men are told alongside their acts of valour, it is also very remarkable that their tales are not complete without where they emerge from, this is an act that has helped reckon individuals’ greatness with the traits of their kindreds and those that have gone before them. Worthy of note is that when encomiums are poured on the great strive of a person their places of origin benefits maximally from same. 

    Born on the 10th of March, ONUH, Okpe Christian is a giant, a colossus in business and commerce who stands tall, haven made his mark in several sectors of including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, construction and agriculture. His of business astuteness, even at a young age is a remarkable testimony of a rise from a humble beginning to becoming a strong example for the younger generation to model and through his vast experience he has since become “North central’s” illustrous Son. 

    In commemorating his birthday anniversary, carpets and celebration drums rolled out and encomiums poured, particularly from youths of the middle belts of the Nation who truly identified ONUH, Okpe Christian as a man who has made several impacts. 

    According to many, his very rich profile, pedestal and prowess his an inspiration that have created a ripple effect of instigating younger people into desiring similar heights of valour. In a very short time, ONUH, Okpe Christian have acquired academic and professional accolades including Bachelors degrees and three different Masters degrees alongside membership of reputable professional bodies. 

    Read Also: Nigeria’s democracy, governance is for all – Youths

    Christian who is an innovative Business Development and Entrepreneurship Expert with over 15 years of experience have successfully launched and running 5 companies spanning across the Healthcare, Agriculture, Finance, Manufacturing and Construction Industries. To many youths only a worthy son would bring bring honour to his region and with regards to this bright star, his giant strides is more than an examplenary living but a vivid expression of the “can do” spirit of sons and daughters of the middle belt of whom the Benue man stands illustrious. 

    Onuh’s successes in negotiating and securing global partnerships with 10 major investors and clients from Canada and the UK to India and Bangladesh is thought provoking; a pointer to his mastery in the business world. It is remarkable how a young man of lowly estate could rise to the height of international reckon, becoming a force. Based on youth’s avid opinion, such tales were strong reminders that the earth belongs to every man, even those who emerge from the middle belt. Onuh has similarly secured  ground-breaking partnership with SKF manufacturing company for Africa’s sole therapeutic medication during the COVID lockdown. He is also passionate about orchestrating and facilitating public business development to drive sustainable growth and increased profitability. Considering all of these and many more, the North central youths summed up Onuh’s person, as a son indeed worthy of honour. 

    In philantropy, ONUH, Okpe Christian, the Chief Executive Officer Famkris Pharmaceuticals and Resources Limited is a man of many feathers. The North Central’s youth attested to his numerous outreaches, extending of hands of gesture to the down trodden and other medical outreaches in communities. As a man who emboldens love for mankind, Onuh speaks expressly on community development and impact and even behind the blazing light of still and motion camera, he has being a shoulder for many to lean on. 

    Onuh is truly a worthy illustrious son of the middle belt and celebrating such a remarkable personality in commemorating his day of birth is a worthy venture.

  • Bellagio Airline appoints Bernice Kunbi Leshi as COO

    Bellagio Airline appoints Bernice Kunbi Leshi as COO

    Bellagio Airline Limited has announced the appointment of Bernice Kunbi Leshi as its Chief Operating Officer (COO). 

    With this appointment, Leshi becomes the first female cabin crew professional to hold such a prestigious position within the company.

    According to the management, Leshi has demonstrated her prowess across various facets of the industry, including cabin services, operations, and human resources.

    It stated her journey in aviation has seen her excel in key roles at reputable organisations such as Virgin Nigeria Airways, Azman Air Services Limited, XE Jet Limited, Med-View Airline Plc, Green Africa Airways, and Sahih Airline.

    It added that Leshi’s appointment underscores Bellagio Airline’s commitment to excellence and innovation With over two decades of hands-on experience in aviation.

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    The management attested to her dynamic leadership coupled with a relentless ‘can-do’ spirit promises to propel Bellagio Airline to new heights, solidifying its position as the preferred choice in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.

    It noted he University of Lagos graduate of Sociology’s dedication to her craft is reflected in her impressive array of certifications from renowned aviation institutions worldwide, including IATA, ICAO, and others from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Kenya.

    The management expressed confidence in her ability to steer the company towards unprecedented success.

  • GOTNI leadership center hosts CEO roundtable in Lagos

    GOTNI leadership center hosts CEO roundtable in Lagos

    The GOTNI Leadership Centre, Africa’s leading Leadership Development Organisation has held a successful Chief Executive Officers Roundtable in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The conference, with the theme: Sustaining value and relevance in the market place: The leadership advantage, attracted no fewer than 50 top Chief Executive Officers from across Nigeria and beyond.

    The event, which held at the prestigious Delborough Hotel in upscale Victoria Island of Lagos, was one of the largest gatherings of CEOs in Nigeria in the same location for an entire day.

    All the advertised speakers were in attendance including Professor Patrick Lumumba from Kenya, Dr. Cosmas Maduka, President of the Coscharis Group, Retired Chief of Defense Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces, General Lucky Irabor, Hon. Justice Mabel Segun Bello of the Federal High Court, President of Gtext Group Dr. Steve Akintayo and CEO of GOTNI Leadership Centre Dr. Linus Okorie.

    In his opening charge to the participants, Dr. Linus Okorie congratulated them for being a part of a movement that will catalyze a dynamic shift in the trajectory of their organizations.

    The other speakers took turns in delivering masterclasses in Leadership, Strategy, Behavioral Patterns, Sales Dynamics, Ethics in Leadership, Corporate Governance and New Age Business Best Practices.

    Speaking at the classy Black Tie Dinner which held to round off the event, various participants expressed their satisfaction with the organization of the event and looked forward to future editions.

    For Dr. Jayne Obioma Onwumere, President of the PWAN Property Group with offices in 12 Countries, her participation at the event has opened her eyes to new vistas of opportunities that will launch her business to another level.

    Dr. May Ikeora of L’Avyanna expressed confidence that she was leaving the meeting an improved version of herself and thanked the organizers for creating such a platform for Nigerian CEOs to interact and share experiences and best practices.

    Mr. Barka Umaru Mshelia of Mshel Properties noted that he had attended a number of capacity development programs locally and internationally but this was different as it was practical and experiential.

    Seyi Adekunle of Vodi Tailors acknowledged that the event was the boost he needed to innovate and open new horizons for his business.

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    Highlight of the event was the inauguration of the GOTNI CEO Leadership Council with City Entrepreneur and Politician, Hon. Shina Pellar emerging as the pioneer President.

    In his speech while inaugurating the Council, the Chief Executive Officer of the GOTNI Leadership Centre, Linus Okorie, MFR, noted that the Council was inaugurated so that CEOs in Nigeria could have a platform to deliberate on shared challenges and prospects. 

    Dr. Okorie noted that the Council, which will shortly be expanded to involve other Chief Executive Officers from accros Africa, would be nurtured into the pre-eminent assemblage of business Executives in Nigeria and Africa.

    Some of the Participants that attended the Roundtable include President of Skyewise Group, Dr. Elvis Abuyere, Member of the Nigerian House of Representatives Hon. Bamidele Salam, Chairman of Octopus Clan Nigeria limited, Desiree Novaro Archibong, CEO of Neo Homes Chukwuemeka Azikwor,  Victoria Michaels from Ghana, Colonel Amidu Lawal of the Nigerian Army, Inese Ntuk Arukhe of Saudi Aramco, among others.

    Other Members of the newly inaugurated CEO Leadership Council include Dr. Prisca Ndu as Vice President, Sarah Samuel Amana as Secretay, Chairman of Princeton Group, Dr. Chibuike Echem, Chief Executive Officer of Cecy Healthcare, Dr. Yomi Jaye, CEO of Everite Diagnostics, Everest Okpara, Managing Director of Richbon Group Assumpta Muonagolu, CEO of Tastia Foods Kester Agwu among others.

    The next meeting of the Council, which will be expanded to an Africa CEO Leadership Council, will hold at the Kempinski Hotel, Accra, Ghana, at the African Leadership Conference holding on April 12 and 13, 2024.

    GOTNI Leadership Centre has for the past 3 decades, being championing leadership development in Nigeria and Africa. The organization boasts a rich list of clientele and collaborators in the public and private sector of Nigeria and beyond.

    The Organisation has secured land and is on the verge of breaking ground for a pioneer Leadership University in Abuja which will be a Centre of Excellence for Leadership Development on the continent.

  • Businessman alleges smear campaign, petitions IG

    Businessman alleges smear campaign, petitions IG

    Chairman of IBD Group, Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun,  has alleged a plot by some people to  deliberately attack his personality and legitimate business through what he described as sponsored, fabricated news in the media. 

    He claimed baseless accusations have been made against him in he traditional and social media in the last few weeks.

    The business tycoon filed a petition to the Inspector General of Police to investigate and bring those behind the attacks to book. 

    Several prominent indigenes of Ogun state, especially Yewaland (including traditional leaders) have condemned what they described as the wicked campaign against Egungbohun.

    Entertainment celebrities and many social media personalities have also lent their voices in his support. 

    A paid advertorial by the management of IIBD International Hotels, one of his companies on Wednesday, said the false allegations of his engagement in illegal business activities, including smuggling of rice and ammunition are parts of apparent and targeted plots to tarnish his image and bring his personality into disrepute.

    The statement reads in part: “Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun is an and law-abiding citizen who has dedicated his life to building a successful and legitimate business empire. He holds a custom license and has been operating as a thoroughbred professional agent for decades – under maximum compliance with all legal requirements/ethics in the import and export industry. 

    “His logistics company is involved in car clearing (Lagos, Apapa) and transportation of palm kernel. He has made good contributions to the growth of local industries and he is also also a creator  of job opportunities, especially in his community.

    “He is a distinguished hotelier, with exceptional contributions to the local tourism sector. He overseas a thriving quarry business whose operations adhere to all industry regulations. He is also an esteemed farmer, overseeing a palm oil production company that not only supports the local economy but also promotes agricultural development and food security. These facts are there for all to see.

    “To drive his passion for humanity, he set up the Ibrahim Dende Foundation, better known as IBD Foundation -a non-profit organization located in Ilaro, the capital of Yewa land, in Ogun State. With a mandate to elevate the socio-economic development of Yewa land, IBD Foundation has been committed to the prosperity of Yewa land and its people. 

    “Now being coordinated by wife, Alhaja Mrs Omolara Dende, the foundation is genuinely offering support in the areas of Human Capital Development, Economic Development, Entrepreneurial Development, Skills Acquisition/Empowerment and Special Projects including Entertainment and Talent Hunt. The IBD Foundation was incorporated in 2011 and is now the official Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the IBD Group. It  has undertaken numerous initiatives to uplift the less privileged, provide educational scholarships, and access to healthcare to the less-reached.

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    “An adorable family man, Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun’s contributions to the community extend beyond his businesses. He is the founder of the Juvenile Club, a football club established in 2003. Through the club, Ibrahim has nurtured and supported numerous talented footballers, providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills even on the international stage. 

    “Many of them have gone on to achieve great successes abroad, bringing pride not only to their families but also to our community. Ibrahim’s commitment to philanthropy is a testament to his compassion, generosity, and dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.

    “It is important to clarify that Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun has never expressed any political ambition or aspiration. Against erroneous claims being circulated, he has never been “arrested severally over smuggling offenses”. His businesses are also not “funded with proceeds from smuggling” 

    “These accusations are completely unfounded and have no basis in reality. Alhaji Ibrahim’s focus has always been on his businesses, community engagement, and philanthropic endeavors, which have positively impacted countless lives. For his numerous contributions, he has  received several accolades, awards and recognitions (including  chieftaincy titles from traditional rulers).  

    “Last year, for being a positive role model and caring for those in need, he received an appreciation award from the Toronto Police (Canada). He was also decorated as a Global Peace Ambassador by World Peace Advocators.

    “It is disheartening to have derogatory words being used in the media to describe the person of a man who has done all these. All the hear-says recently published in the media from a supposed documentary by a particular investigative journalist are totally false, unfounded and targeted at just the aim of the plotters.”

    The statement confirmed: “Alhaji Ibrahim’s lawyers are currently proceeding to seek legal redress against the individuals behind the false publications.”

  • Shina Peller becomes GOTNI CEOs leadership council President

    Shina Peller becomes GOTNI CEOs leadership council President

    City entrepreneur and politician, Hon. Shina Peller, has emerged the pioneer President of the GOTNI Leadership Centre CEOs Leadership Council.

    The Council was inaugurated on Saturday, February 24 at the Delborough Lagos during the maiden CEOs Leadership Roundtable organized by the GOTNI Leadership Centre.

    The Conference, with the theme: Sustaining value and relevance in the marketplace: The leadership advantage, attracted 50 top Chief Executive Officers from across Nigeria and beyond.

    While inaugurating the Council, the CEO of the GOTNI Leadership Centre, Linus Okorie, MFR, noted the Council was inaugurated so that CEOs in Nigeria could have a platform to deliberate on shared challenges and prospects.

    Okorie noted the Council, which will shortly be expanded to involve other Chief Executive Officers from across Africa, would be nurtured into the pre-eminent assemblage of business executives in Nigeria and Africa.

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    Speakers at the CEO leadership roundtable include Professor Patrick Lumumba from Kenya; former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Lucky Irabor (Rtd); President of Coscharis Group Dr Cosmas Maduka; Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice Mabel Segun Bello; President of Gtext Group Dr Steve Akintayo and CEO of GOTNI Leadership Forum, Dr Linus Okorie.

    Some of the CEOs that attended the roundtable include the President of PWAN Group Dr Jayne Onwumere; CEO of Vodi Tailors, Seyi Adekunle; President of Skyewise Group, Dr. Elvis Abuyere; Chairman of Octopus Clan Nigeria Limited; Desiree Novaro Archibong, CEO of L’AvyAnna, Dr. May Ikeora among others.

    Other members of the Council include Dr Prisca Ndu as the Vice President; Sarah Samuel Amana as the Secretay; Chairman of Princeton Group, Dr Chibuike Echem; Chief Executive Officer of Cecy Healthcare, Dr. Yomi Jaye; CEO of Everite Diagnostics, Everest Okpara; Managing Director of Richbon Group Assumpta Muonagolu among others.

    The next meeting of the Council will hold at the Kempinski Hotel, Accra at the African Leadership Conference slated for April 12 and 13, 2024.

  • How I rose from rejection to pinnacle of impact – Celebrity carpenter Moses

    How I rose from rejection to pinnacle of impact – Celebrity carpenter Moses

    Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Sagesse De Dieu Limited, Moses Amiebenomo, has shared his experience how he never lost sight of his dream to become a celebrity in his field.

    His story is one of perseverance, determination, and ultimately, triumph. Despite facing rejection and disapproval  Moses never lost sight of his dreams.

    Amiebenomo shared his experience in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja. 

    The statement reads: “Through his hard work and dedication, Moses has not only trained and mentored hundreds of people in the carpentry industry, but he has also created jobs for many individuals who have gone on to achieve great success. 

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    “In addition to all of this, Moses is also a philanthropist and the founder of the first college of traditional carpentry in Africa, Sagesse College of Traditional Carpentry.

    “Moses’ story is a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance and the unwavering commitment to one’s dreams. He stands as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that with hard work and the right mindset, anything is possible. Let us all celebrate the journey of our celebrity carpenter and be inspired to follow our own passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem.”

  • Allure Energy’s CEO Ajegbomogun bags doctorate Degree

    Allure Energy’s CEO Ajegbomogun bags doctorate Degree

     Chief Executive Officer of Allure Energy Barr Bimpe Ajegbomogun has bagged a Doctorate Degree in Philosophy in Leadership and Conflict Management [Honosis Causa] from International Leadership Manpower and Management Development (ILMMD) United Kingdom

    The honour, which was conferred on her on Saturday, February 17, 2024, followed her exemplary leadership performance in the legal profession and contribution over the years in the development of the profession through her NGO- named after her late mother THE RACHAEL BANKE AJEGBOMOGUN

    ILMMD, in a statement, explained that the honour was in recognition of Ajegbomogun’s contribution to the development of legal services in the country as well ensuring many indigent victims who ordinarily could not afford legal fees get justices through her pro bono cases.

    Ajegbomogun said that the honour was a call to be more dedicated and committed to nation building especially at this critical time in the country’s development.

    Ajegbomogun, an indigene of Ekiti State, was born on the 4th of February, 1982 to late Professor Ajebomogun of Obafemi Awolowo University IIe-Ife and her mother was a retired secondary school principal.

    She grew up in a family of seven children and the fifth amongst them.

    Bimpe read Law and graduated in 2006, proceeded to The Nigerian Law School [Abuja campus] and was called to the bar in 2007. She immediately went for her youth service in Abuja FCT.

    Afterwards, she proceeded to the University of Lagos, Akoka for her Masters in Law. At the moment she is a PHD student in a University in Canada. Bimpe is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitration [UK].

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    Ajegbomogun is one of the few lawyers who possess beauty and brains in Nigeria.

    Anyone who has had the opportunity to meet her in court would attest to the fact that she is not just beautiful and well-shaped but brainy and humble.

    She handles a lot of high profile cases which has brought her to limelight and noteworthy of her is that she handles these cases pro bono as a way of getting justice for the innocent.

  • All you need to know about founder of Rosemary Olubode Inspirational

    All you need to know about founder of Rosemary Olubode Inspirational

    Rosemary Olubode, founder of Rosemary Olubode Inspirational, a social media page exclusively dedicated to modelling marriages and enlightening spouses on their institutional responsibilities at home, may not ring a very loud bell but she is an inspiration to her generation.

    Born 49 years ago in the Jibowu area of Lagos State to a Christian family, her father worked as an editor with one of the major newspapers in Nigeria while the mother initially did menial jobs to support the family. 

    As a young girl, the host of Rosemary Olubode Inspirational had a direction on how she wanted to live her life. She attended Onoyade Community Primary School after which she excelled brilliantly at  Jibowu High School, finishing as the best student in the West African Examination Council (WAEC) in the school 31 years ago. She then studied Pharmacy at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State.

    “I grew up in a Christian home. My mum is a caterer, she is still alive, my dad was a journalist. He worked briefly with the Vanguard. He was a sport editor. My parents are from Edo State, my dad was from Irrua, my mum is Uromi in Esan Central. I have three other siblings, I’m the second child, two boys and girls. I have an older brother, a younger brother and our last born is a lady,” the Rosemary Olubode Inspirational initiator recalled while discussing her childhood and life in an interview.

    Speaking further, Rosemary Olubode said: “I was born in Lagos State, precisely at Jibowu. My mum was very strict in bringing us up. She wanted us to be better than her, when she was working, she wasn’t earning so much but you could see that she wanted us to have the best of everything. She would go to Mile 12 Market to do what Yoruba calls ‘alabaru’ (those who carry load for people in the market). After leaving Mile 12 market, she would go to Ketu market to do the same thing. 

    “She said sometimes, she would pick left over unripe plantain by those selling them. She would pick then up and bring them home to feed us. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. I grew up in a one-room apartment. My auntie was with us and my uncle was also living with us. My auntie, my uncle, my mum and my dad. So, eight of us in one room. So, I just wanted to do everything to get me out of that environment and the only thing that came to my mind was to study hard and get a good job and make a good name for myself.”

    Continuing, she said: “So while growing up, because of the environment I grew up, there were basic things I wanted to avoid in marriage. As a young girl in primary school, I’d made up my mind that I was not going to marry a man who drinks. It was a no no for me. I wasn’t going to marry a man that smokes. I wasn’t going to marry an irresponsible man. I wanted to marry a man that was kind. 

    ” By the time I met my husband, that was three weeks to when I was about to finish my national youth service, he came over to my lodge at corners lodge, we had some discussion. I threw these questions to him, he answered them. The few months we had together and dated, I saw that he does not drink, smoke, kind-hearted and responsible. That was what convinced me to get married him”.

    The pharmacist launched Rosemary Olubode Inspirational after the demise of her husband with the mindset of reaching a global audience and changing the mentality of couples, especially women, about unflinching care to their husbands and functioning as wives at home. 

    The businesswoman lost her husband in 2020 but her current project has given her a timely diversionary focus, through which she is determined to help replicate in millions of homes the sort of enviable union she had for 18 years.

    Read Also: Where I grew up influenced my choice of husband – Rosemary Olubode Inspirational

    “I missed my husband so much, I wish my husband is still here, honestly. What has made me cope with his absence is his memories. His memories are what have made me cope because I still remember everything my husband used to say. 

    “In one of my videos, I said whenever my husband is in town, he would gather us. We hold meetings in our home, like twice every month, he would gather us; the children and I and would advised us how to handle things. That is helping me in handling his absence. 

    “So what I’m trying to do is to erase that mentality that they have; that horrible mentality that they have in their marriage, that they can treat their husband anyhow, maltreat their children or people around them. I’m just trying to change their orientation so that they can be happy in their home; that is the whole essence. I just want women to be happy in their home, I want marriages ordained by God, to last. It can last, so it depends on how you handle it,” host of Rosemary Olubode Inspirational stated.

  • Transforming Nigeria’s lottery industry

    Transforming Nigeria’s lottery industry

    The Nigerian lottery and gaming industry is passing through a growth phase defined by creativity and innovation. The sector has earned domestic and global recognitions due to the excellent regulations and transformative policies initiated by the Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila. Assistant Business Editor, COLLINS NWEZE, reports.

    The use of technology and innovation in the lottery and gaming industry has brought the business closer to the people and made patronage seamless.

    The industry has become popular in Nigeria, with over 65 million young and old Nigerians actively engaged in it, spending at least $15 daily on the average.

    Recent statistics even claimed that more than 50 per cent of the country’s adult population engages in sports betting.

    This has led to a proliferation of over 100 betting sites in the country.

    The industry is representing a significant segment of the economy, creating jobs and supporting growth.

    The growth in the industry is driven by sound policies and innovative leadership that has received domestic and global acknowledgements.

    At a glamorous ceremony at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) in London, 2024, the Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila, was not just a participant but the star of the show.

    His induction into the Africa Gaming Hall of Fame with an Award of Excellence was a testament to his dedication, innovation, and leadership in the transformation of the lottery and gaming industry in Africa, particularly in Nigeria.

    Gbajabiamila, affectionately known as ‘Mr. Lottery’, has been at the forefront of regulatory excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s lottery sector since his appointment.

    Under his stewardship, the NLRC has witnessed unprecedented growth and reforms aligning with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to elevate the lottery business to new heights. His efforts have not only revitalised the industry but have also set a benchmark for gaming regulation in Africa.

    Deepening global standards, partnerships

    The hallmark of Gbajabiamila’s tenure has been his visionary approach to embracing international standards and fostering global partnerships. The transformation of the NLRC’s bi-yearly gaming conference, which he pioneered in 2021 from a national to an international event, underlines his commitment to expanding Nigeria’s gaming industry on the global stage.

    Its last year’s conference in Lagos was a melting pot of experts, operators, and investors from around the world, demonstrating Nigeria’s burgeoning influence in the global gaming industry.

    This elevation of the gaming conference to international status has been a strategic move to attract foreign investment, increase the inflow of resources to Nigeria, and provide a platform for Nigerian gaming industry leaders to network with international giants. Gbajabiamila’s leadership has not only opened new revenue streams for the country but also enhanced the gaming experience for Nigerians, ensuring more robust winnings and a more regulated environment.

    During the ICE London Conference, Mr. Gbajabiamila also participated in a pivotal round table discussion themed “Gaming regulations in Africa: the journey so far, and what the future holds.” Alongside other esteemed gaming experts, he shared insights into the regulatory landscape of the industry, emphasising the importance of fostering local content policies and partnerships to mitigate capital flight from African countries.

    His advocacy for the implementation and deployment of a Central Monitoring System by his Commission underscores his commitment to enhancing regulatory oversight and efficiency in Nigeria’s gaming sector.

    Earlier, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)had at a grand event, where the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nosun Tijani, was represented, conferred on ‘Mr. Lottery’ a Special Recognition Award.

    Presenting the award, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Farouk Yusuf Yabo, who stood in for the minister, commended the remarkable contributions of the lottery boss to data protection.

    Eulogising Gbajabiamila, the Minister said: “ Your steadfast support and contributions to the National Data Protection Commission have not gone unnoticed.Your collaboration has been instrumental in furthering the goals of both commissions. “

    Read Also: LIST: Nigeria, 17 other countries not qualified for 2025 US lottery programme

    The recognitions from the NDPC and the African Gaming Hall of Fame not only highlight the personal accomplishments but also casts a spotlight on the essential elements of effective leadership, cooperation, and unwavering commitment in propelling the gaming industry.

    As the gaming landscape in Nigeria continues to mature, there’s no gain saying that the efforts and achievements of individuals like Gbajabiamila stand as a beacon for industry leaders, demonstrating the significant influence of dedication and high standards across Africa.

    Before ascending to the pinnacle of the NLRC, Gbajabiamila had left significant footprints in the gaming industry, including a remarkable stint at the National Sports Lottery His pioneering work on the Essnet Lottery Operating System, managing five million lottery transactions weekly, showcases his blend of technical expertise and visionary leadership.

    His reappointment in 2022 by former President Muhammadu Buhari for a final term of four years was a nod to his impactful leadership and the profound strides made under his guidance. The Africa Gaming Hall of Fame Award of Excellence presented by Kate Chambers at ICE 2024 is not just an accolade for Gbajabiamila but  also a spotlight on Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global gaming and lottery industry.

    As Gbajabiamila continues to chart a progressive course for Nigeria’s gaming sector, his story is a beacon of excellence, innovation, and transformative leadership. It underscores the potential of the gaming industry to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic diversification and growth, marking a new era of prosperity and international recognition for the country’s gaming industry.