The Nation Newspaper

Category: CEO

  • Diageo appoints Cynthia Ufele to drive brand influence, culture

    Diageo appoints Cynthia Ufele to drive brand influence, culture

    Cynthia Ufele has been appointed as the Brand Manager for Influencer Reserve and Culture Manager for South, West, and Central Africa, marking a significant milestone in her career.

    With extensive experience in the beverage alcohol industry, Cynthia previously served as the Guinness Trademark Lead in Nigeria, where she successfully repositioned Guinness as one of the most equitable beer brands in the country, driving double-digit profit growth.

    She played a key role in award-winning campaigns such as “Black Shines Brightest” and “Bright House”, while also leading inclusion and diversity initiatives.

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    Her achievements include revitalizing Guinness in the cultural landscape, enhancing football experiences, and spearheading the Big Brother Nigeria campaign across the Diageo portfolio in Nigeria.

    In her new role, Cynthia will be responsible for managing the Influencer Reserve and Culture initiatives across the region. Her appointment is viewed as a strategic move to enhance brand engagement and cultural impact in Africa.

    Cynthia expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am excited to take on this new challenge and look forward to contributing to the vibrant and dynamic market in Africa.”

    This appointment underscores the importance of cultural engagement and brand management in the region.

  • Okunbo nominated as New Telegraph ‘Young Entrepreneur of The Year 2024’

    Okunbo nominated as New Telegraph ‘Young Entrepreneur of The Year 2024’

    The Chairman, Wells Carlton Hotels and Apartments, and an Entrepreneur, Osahon Okunbo has been nominated as the ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2024’ by the Board of Editors and Panel of Judges of Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited, publishers of New Telegraph newspaper.

    The news platform in a nomination letter signed by the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Ayodel Aminu, said the young entrepreneur has over the years demonstrated admirable leadership quality in managing chains of striving businesses across, hospitality, Oil and Gas, Energy, security, real Estate and others.

    In a letter announcing his nomination, Aminu said, “Mr Osahon strategic expertise extends to his role on the board of Ocean Marine Solutions Limited (OMSL) a parent company of OMSL, PINL and Delta Pacific. OMSL is an LLC dedicated to maritime security solutions, oil and gas service, and pipeline security.

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    “The company has a commitment to provide services that secure the nation’s energy and power assets, with a vision to foster community engagement, promote peace and reduce sabotage. His leadership at Wells Carlton added a layer of prestige to the hotel with elevation of guest experience and provision of a dynamic hub for corporate gathering and social events alike.   

    Beyond his business endeavours, Osahon ‘s philanthropic spirit shines through the Osahon Okunbo Foundation.

    The foundation’s mission is to combat poverty and uplift communities through art, creativity, and faith. Its initiatives span from providing quality  education, accessible healthcare, entrepreneurial opportunities, and affordable housing for the people of Benin, Edo state and across Nigeria.

    Osahon also actively promotes and preserves the rich cultural diversity of black art within Nigeria, Africa, and its diaspora. 

    Osahon Okunbo’s multifaceted contributions underscore his commitment to excellence, strategic vision, and transformative impact on both business and society.

  • Wingo appointed Still Earth holdings Group MD

    Wingo appointed Still Earth holdings Group MD

    Still Earth Holdings has appointed Ritchie Wingo as its Group Managing Director. With over 25 years of experience in international oil and gas operations and expertise in information technology, Wingo brings invaluable skills to the conglomerate. 

    His appointment marks the beginning of a new era focused on strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation, uniting the group’s subsidiaries—Still Earth Construction, Tirex Petroleum and Energy, and Still Earth Capital Finance—under a common vision for progress.

    Executive Chairperson, Oyindamola Lami Adeyemi, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in the group’s success, praised the appointment. 

    Adeyemi, known for transforming Still Earth Holdings into a leading, innovative conglomerate, views Wingo’s appointment as a key step in advancing the group’s ambitious transformation.

    “Ritchie Wingo’s appointment as Group Managing Director represents a powerful step toward realizing the bold transformation we envision at Still Earth Holdings. 

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    “With his unparalleled leadership and innovative approach, we are committed to reshaping industries, driving groundbreaking change, and creating lasting value. 

    “Together, we will forge new paths, exceed expectations, and accelerate the future of construction, energy, and finance in ways that leave a profound impact on our stakeholders and the communities we serve,” she affirmed.

    Under her guidance, the group has also deepened commitment to social responsibility, investing in education, arts, culture, and infrastructure to positively impact the communities it serves. 

    A statement from the company highlighted Wingo’s extensive experience with global energy giants like BP, Shell, Chevron, and ExxonMobil, as well as his role at PwC as Director of Oil and Gas. 

    His proven ability to deliver transformative results and his commitment to quality and sustainability uniquely position him to elevate Still Earth Holdings.

    Wingo is focused on improving processes, integrating advanced technologies, and nurturing talent to create a resilient framework that supports the group’s subsidiaries in delivering sustainable infrastructure, innovative energy solutions, and financial progress.

    Key initiatives in Wingo’s leadership strategy include process improvements, project management overhauls, ERP system re-implementation, comprehensive project status reporting, strengthening client relationships, and building a superior workforce.

    The statement added to ensure the efficient execution of large-scale projects, Wingo is establishing a centralised Project Management Office (PMO) to standardise practices, enhance accountability, and improve interdepartmental coordination.

    Wingo is also overseeing the implementation of an advanced ERP system to provide real-time data for improved decision-making and is setting up a project status reporting system to enhance transparency and address issues swiftly. 

    He is also committed to leveraging his global connections to expand the company’s network, strengthening client relationships, and recruiting top talent while fostering a collaborative culture.

  • Okengwu honoured with Joe Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2025

    Okengwu honoured with Joe Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2025

    The Managing Director of Win Homes Global Services Ltd, Engr. Stella Okengwu has been honored with the prominent President Joe Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2025.

    The prestigious Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award by President Joe Biden is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteerism and public service.

    This incredible honour by President Biden recognizes Okengu’s unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions to the real estate sector across the world. 

    Also honoured alongside with the Managing Director of Win Homes Global Services Ltd by the former U.S. President before handling over to his successor, Donald Trump are Michael Flynn, Dr. Alveda Thomas and Catalina Stube, Dr. Elisha Attai, Praise Fowowe, North Miami Mayor Alix, Ken Podziba, CEO of Bike New York and others.

    Her recognition was no fluck as she has unarguably made visible impact in America where she resides and her motherland Nigeria.

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    Okengwu love for her country Nigeria made her pioneered a huge investment of $250 million in the Nigerian economy by Nigerians in the diaspora.

    She has however, been instrumental to hundreds of projects in Nigeria Lagos precisely, thereby, encouraging diasporans to subscribe in ensuring the repatriation of hundreds of millions of dollars back into the country through her company Winhomes Global Estate scheme.

  • Marine engineers elect Eferebo Sylvanus chairman

    Marine engineers elect Eferebo Sylvanus chairman

    The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) has elected a new leadership to pilot its affairs for the next one year with Engr. Eferebo Sylvanus emerging as chairman. 

    He was elected in Port Harcourt, Rivers State during an extra ordinary general meeting with other members of the exco in an election considered free and fair. 

    Addressing newsmen after his election, Engr. Eferebo said his priority is to lead NIMENA to attain international recognition by setting up a journal house where research and development activities will be published, helping to tackle Nigeria’s and sub-regional maritime challenges to contribute to Africa’s development. 

    NIMENA, a division of The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), further lamented that poor regulatory standards and lack of enforcement mechanism in the maritime sector has caused the country huge losses in revenue, noting that Nigeria can earn over $40bn from the sector if properly regulated and activities of research and development given due priority. 

    While stating that NIMENA cannot exist in isolation, he expressed the readiness of the institution to engage with regulatory agencies, policymakers and other critical stakeholders to raise the status of the body. 

    He added that there will be a series of enlightenment, symposium, workshops, technical sessions and interaction with respective government agencies and sister institutions through effective collaboration for the benefit of the sector. 

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    Sylvanus said his leadership will also give priority to membership drive, stating that a membership committee has been set up to engage and interface with undergraduate marine engineers, young practitioners and others outside the body to know their challenges and address them. 

    While promising an enhanced membership benefits, the chairman said he will carry on with the programmes and activities of past administration, including ensuring that opinions expressed in the last conference of the institution are quickly drafted in a communique and sent out to relevant agencies. 

    The immediate past chairman of NIMENA, Engr. Dr. Daniel Tamunodukobipi, expressed satisfaction with the transparent manner in which the new executives emerged. 

    While urging the new leadership to continue in the existing initiatives to ensure the waterways are safe, the immediate past chairman called for public enlightenment campaign to educate the Nigerian people on the activities of the body. 

    He also called for the development and maintenance of codes and standards to strengthen the safety framework in the sector, calling for partnership with relevant government agencies. 

    Other offices elected include National Vice Chairman, Engr. Bhine Obom Amartari; National General Secretary, Engr. Dr. Azubuike John Chuku; National Publicity Secretary, Engr. King Wugha and ex-officio Engr. Henry Unuigbe.

  • Inside the Life of Breet’s New Chief Operating Officer 

    Inside the Life of Breet’s New Chief Operating Officer 

    On Wednesday, 15th January, 2025, Breet (Inbreetic Technologies) welcomed a new Chief Operations Officer in the person of Vivian Mbene. 

    As part of Inbreetic Technologies, Breet is a Nigerian fintech company that simplifies crypto-to-cash conversions, empowering users to manage their money in smarter, more innovative ways.

    A core part of Vivian’s role as COO, is ensuring the seamless operation of the innovative over-the-counter crypto trading platform. As someone who thrives on results, she plans to combine her superpower (speed) with her creative mind to ensure processes work smoothly. 

    While Vivian is a hardcore worker during the day, she enjoys unwinding after a long day re-watching series, she shares, “I rewatch The Office—it’s my ultimate comfort show. I never get tired of it!” She also enjoys Modern Family and The Big Bang Theory. She also enjoys having a taste of new cultural experiences through traveling (both in real life and her mind, lol).

    In our interview, with her, we asked some questions to get to know her outside of the work environment.

    Question: If you had a superpower, what would it be?

    Answer: “Teleportation, so I don’t have to spend time on flights to see all the countries in the world.”

    Question: What’s your weirdest food combination ?

    Answer: “I don’t think I have a weird food combination. Instead, let me tell you what I don’t like eating. Custard! I hate it, the color and flavour. Would just rather go for pap.”

    Question: How do you pitch seemingly crazy ideas to people?

    Answer: “When I get these ideas, I’m inspired to take action. I always weigh the pros and cons and what it would cost us to go after such ideas, and if negligible, I’d rather try it than not try it. 

    That’s one of the reasons why I like our team, we are always innovative. We can always twist the approach rather than spend too much time thinking about doing and not doing anything.”

    Question: If you swap lives, who would it be?

    Answer: “No one! I admire other women, but I’m genuinely happy with my life. Everyone has their own challenges—I’d rather focus on mine.”

    With Vivian at the forefront, Breet isn’t just breaking barriers in swapping digital currencies; it’s creatively solving digital payment problems for individuals and businesses. Her blend of creativity, authenticity, and bold ideas is setting a new standard—and we’re here for it. Breet is ready for an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.

  • NGX Popoola champions Africa’s market growth at ESX launch

    NGX Popoola champions Africa’s market growth at ESX launch

    Group CEO of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Temi Popoola, reaffirmed Africa’s untapped potential in capital markets during the highly anticipated launch of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX).

    As Ethiopia marked a historic milestone with its first-ever stock exchange, Popoola underscored the significance of regional collaboration, government-private sector synergy, and innovative solutions in unlocking the continent’s economic potential. 

    Speaking at the event, Popoola highlighted NGX Group’s strategic investment in the ESX as a testament to its commitment to advancing Africa’s financial landscape.

    “The launch of ESX represents a pivotal moment for Ethiopia and the broader African financial landscape,” he declared.

    “ESX will serve as a crucial mechanism for capital formation and market liquidity, driving sustainable economic growth.” 

    Popoola emphasised Ethiopia’s vast market potential, positioning ESX as a springboard for broader regional financial integration.

    “Our partnership transcends traditional investment parameters. It is about ensuring that ESX evolves into a key player in Africa’s financial ecosystem, enabling cross-border investments and setting benchmarks for market development,” he explained.

    Drawing parallels with global success stories like India, Popoola advocated for the careful opening of markets to attract both local and continental capital. “By following this path, Ethiopia can become a financial hub in Africa,” he added. 

    Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed celebrated the event as a turning point in Ethiopia’s economic modernisation efforts.

    “Today, we have officially rung the bell to launch the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, our nation’s first stock exchange,” he shared on X.

    “This is a call to global investors: Ethiopia offers immense potential, a fast-growing economy, and a clear trajectory towards shared prosperity.” 

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    CEO of ESX, Tilahun Esmael Kassahun, echoed these sentiments, expressing optimism about the future of Ethiopia’s financial markets and NGX Group’s role in shaping them.

    “We are pleased to welcome NGX Group as a strategic partner, building upon the existing support we continue to receive from them,” Kassahun stated. 

    Leveraging over six decades of experience, NGX Group brings critical insights into diversifying financial instruments and expanding access to investment opportunities. Popoola outlined a roadmap for Ethiopia’s capital market, calling for a blend of innovation, policy reforms, and regional partnerships to propel growth. 

    Popoola concluded that with the right combination of innovation, policy support, and regional collaboration, Ethiopia’s capital market could drive economic development and emerge as a leader in Africa’s financial ecosystem.

    Industry experts emphasised that the launch of the ESX, supported by NGX Group as a strategic investor, highlights the critical role of partnerships in shaping Africa’s financial future. By harnessing shared expertise and advancing regional integration, Ethiopia is carving a path to becoming a leading force in the continent’s evolving capital markets.  

  • Doghor Boyo awarded for security advocacy

    Doghor Boyo awarded for security advocacy

    The Coalition of Nigeria Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA), has honored Amb. Doghor Boyo with a National Outstanding Leadership Award as an icon of security ambassador. 

    The award was in recognition of Boyo’s relentless commitment in promoting advocacy and sustaining peaceful development, and Security measures within the community.

    The Leadership award also acknowledged through his philanthropic efforts, his support for various causes and initiatives, including security summits, Youths and widows empowerment, health care, education amongst several others. His selflessness and doggedness has inspired countless individuals to embrace security advocacy.

    Doghor Boyo is a visionary entrepreneur and accomplished leader in the oil and Gas industry, he is also the CEO of DEP Multifunctional Service LTD, an Oil and Gas Company with a remarkable achievements and remarkable annual turnovers in recent years.

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    Boyo’s vast experience over the years has helped him chart a course  of purpose and self discovering for the Youths in his community, by offering job opportunities and also encouraging the Youth to desist from the life of crime

    Boyo’s expertise lies in various facets of oil and gas support services, IT services, and engineering procurement. His company provides  support services for major energy companies like Oando, Chevron, and Mobil. DEP Multifunctional Services has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry, attracting partnerships with key players in the sector.

    In addition to his entrepreneurial accomplishments, Boyo’s has held strategic roles in other reputable organizations. His career includes leadership positions at TransAfrik Energy Services LTD and KCC Nigeria LTD, where he contributed to their business development strategies. He also served as an Analyst at Verod Capital and worked with leading financial institutions such as Oceanic Bank and Zenith Bank, gaining valuable experience in finance and management.

    With years of combined team experience in his company, Boyo’s continues to expand DEP’s services, ensuring it remains a leader in its field. His strategic insights and ability to navigate the complexities of the oil and gas industry have positioned him as a top player in the sector, making him a key figure in Nigeria’s energy landscape. 

    Boyo’s track record of success, from building a billion-naira enterprise to securing long-term industry partnerships, speaks to his determination, leadership, and expertise in driving growth in competitive markets.

  • How Darvey Ugochukwu is making TMS Group a thriving brand

    How Darvey Ugochukwu is making TMS Group a thriving brand

    Ugochukwu Darvey Chinonso, the CEO of TMS Group, has established himself as a formidable force in the business world. With an estimated net worth of $15 million, his entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his innovative spirit, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to success.

    Born on July 7, 1999, in Imo State, Nigeria the trajectory of Darvey Ugochukwu began with a solid educational foundation. He attended Madonna Primary and Secondary School and later pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Owerri, graduating in 2023. This academic background has provided him with a strong foundation in problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation.

    Speaking in an interview with reporters, Darvey Ugochukwu said: “My net worth is currently estimated at approximately $15 million, which is about 17 billion naira.” This significant achievement underscores his business acumen and strategic vision. When asked about his approach to success, he emphasized, “Genuine happiness stems from balancing personal fulfillment, contributing to others, and maintaining profound gratitude for life’s blessings.”

    Darvey Ugochukwu’s view of life is anchored on growth, resilience, and kindness. He believes in the reciprocity of giving back to nature to receive abundance. Forgiveness, he asserts, is essential for personal growth and maintaining positive relationships. As he noted, “A man is not old until regrets take over his dreams. No time…don’t look back, look ahead and prepare.”

    As the CEO of TMS Group, Darvey Ugochukwu has built a diverse empire, encompassing TMS Media, the TMS Fashion brand, Edgefusion Labs, and Donkey Apps. These ventures highlight his ability to navigate and thrive in varied industries, demonstrating his business acumen and strategic vision.

    Darvey Ugochukwu’s success can be attributed to his ability to network and collaborate with experts and peers. He acknowledges that engaging with others has facilitated his ability to surmount challenges and uncover innovative solutions. This approach has enabled him to stay ahead of the curve, continually innovating and pushing boundaries.

    In the foreseeable future, Ugochukwu Darvey Chinonso aims to broaden his business portfolio by acquiring shares in diverse up-and-coming and established companies. As a respected entrepreneur and leader, he continues to inspire others to pursue their passions and strive for excellence.

  • Larritosh: A journey of advocacy, media, service

    Larritosh: A journey of advocacy, media, service

    Sunday Lanre Omotoso (Larritosh) is a celebrated community development specialist whose work spans global orientation, cultural diversity and family welfare. A former radio and television journalist in Oyo State, Nigeria, Larritosh has a rich background in media and theatre, with degrees in Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and a master’s in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University, USA. His unique vision blends literary creativity and a passion for advocacy, making him a distinguished figure in community-oriented media and social services.

    Larritosh has a solid background in science and technology, with extensive experience in the telecom domain. At Nexgen Wireless, he worked as a Software Engineer in the Information Technology field and as a Mobile Network Quality Assurance Engineer. At TechMahindra USA, he served as an Automated Optimization Engineer, focusing on test automation. His work involved automating testing processes for mobile application functionalities and conducting network performance verification testing for both Nexgen Wireless and TechMahindra America.

    In the United States, Lanre Omotoso is a pioneer Community Media Advocate on African diaspora issues. He is the founder of “CBI Community Network” an online digital media broadcast platform committed to promoting the rich African culture and activities of African people in diaspora. Through popular programs on CBI Community Network, such as “Life in Diaspora”, “African voices abroad”, “Voice from the future”, He highlights the struggles, achievements, and stories of the diaspora community, creating a bridge between cultures and fostering a sense of belonging among Africans overseas.

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    Over the past 12 years, Larritosh has built a career in family welfare, parenting, and child development in the State of Indiana, where he works as a Family Support Specialist. His experience spans roles within the Private and Public Health and Social Service Sectors in Indiana giving him deep insights into contemporary family issues, including relationships, marriage, and parenting.

    Larritosh’s commitment to community service extends beyond his career; In 2011, Larritosh founded the “Global Vision Children’s Network, GVCN” A nonprofit organization committed to promoting, advancing, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity among children of different nationalities. This initiative was consolidated in 2015 when he started an online Community-based digital media outfit aimed at promoting social, cultural and economic activities within the diaspora community in Central Indiana. His passion and commitment to diaspora community service can also be verified through his support academic research and findings on diaspora related subjects. He was member of an academic research team lead by Dr. Eric Kyere and Dr. Jessica Lee of IU School of Social work, aimed at investigating the experiences of second generation African and Asian youth founded by IU’s Racial Justice research Fund. He also demonstrates a strong passion for community health which is reflected in his involvement in the healthcare services for Adults and people of special needs. He’s a co-founder of Adeyoola Memorial Adult Home Care Center Ibadan Nigeria.

    A great Christian Husband and a proud father, Sunday Lanre Omotoso’s journey and achievements reflect his unwavering dedication to his community and his belief in the power of shared stories to shape a better future for all.