Category: CEO

  • Yushau Shuaib @ 55: Celebrating a humble PR guru

    Yushau Shuaib @ 55: Celebrating a humble PR guru

    By Mohammed Dahiru Lawal

    Yushau Abdulhameed Shuaib, also known as YAShuaib, who just clocked 55, is a man that thrives by a servant leadership style. This is defined by his wisdom, numerous acts of selflessness and kindness garbed in humility despite influence and high-profile contacts at his beck and call.

    I first met YAShuaib as an undergraduate of the Department of Information and Media Studies, Bayero University Kano. In 2018, he attended our orientation and took us through the digital media landscape. The takeaways from the presentation were inspiring. I saw him later that year when he again visited the department.

    Incidentally, I had just led the BUK Facebook Peer to Peer Global Digital Challenge where we emerged with an honorary mention among participating global universities. We were hosted by the then Dean of Student Affairs, and YAShuaib, the HoD, Associate Professor Nura Ibrahim and Dr Muhammad Danja accompanied.

    The way Mr. Shuaib interacted as we walked to the Deanery and throughout the time together left me in awe. I mean, here is a renowned writer, public relations maestro and public affairs commentator with an illustrious career, having held various positions in Nigerian government institutions and the private sector.

    Despite his reputation and connections, YAShuaib has a remarkable willingness to blend into the background. He never attempts to exert any sort of authority or bypass protocol. Instead, he patiently allows security personnel and other officials in charge to do their job, even at times some get unnecessarily overzealous.

    Mr. Shuaib served as spokesperson for the Federal Ministries of Information, Finance, and Health, respectively. At different times, he led the Press and Public Relations Department of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

    The columnist has written and published more than 300 articles and authored books including Boko Haram and Media War; An Encounter with the Spymaster; Award Winning Crisis Communication Strategies, and Pantami: An Encounter with a Digital Economy Maestro, among others.

    Mr. Shuaib, who championed the establishment of the Forum of Spokespersons of Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA) – a body which comprises, the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Customs, Immigration, EFCC and NSCDC – was former National Security Adviser (NSA) Sambo Dasuki’s media advisor.

    I joined the PRNigeria Centre in Abuja in 2019 and later transitioned into a staff member. The modesty of our ‘oga’ drew admiration from everyone. “Humility is the ultimate sophistication,” he says. His actions echo the sentiments of Clare Boothe Luce, who wrote in her 1931 novel Stuffed Shirts, “The height of sophistication is simplicity.”

    Today, the Centre, with headquarters in Abuja, has offices in Ilorin and Kano, due to the resilience of a man whose character and legacy remind that true greatness lies not in seeking recognition but in treating others with compassion. As Yushau Shuaib marks his 55th birthday, we honour an icon and pray for more years of blessings and achievements.

    Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, a 2023 Mandela Washington Fellow, writes from Abuja

    Email: mdlawal001@gmail.com

  • Onolememen becomes ANAN Fellow

    Onolememen becomes ANAN Fellow

    The chairman of the Guidotti Group, Ambassador Richy E. Onolememen, has been awarded the prestigious fellowship of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). 

    The honor was conferred upon him on September 19, 2024 during a formal ceremony in Abuja.

    Ambassador Onolememen’s elevation to the fellowship is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to both the business and public sectors in Nigeria. 

    His leadership at Guidotti Group, which encompasses across industries such as construction, real estate, and hospitality, and through his humanitarian work with the Elens Foundation, he has been commended for his dedication to national development and ethical business practices.

    Read Also: PRNigeria Communication Fellow gets scholarship to NIPR Finishing School

    Onolememen expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating, “This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the hard work and integrity that he has consistently demonstrated. I am deeply honored to be a part of this reputable institution.”

    ANAN is one of Nigeria’s leading professional bodies for accountants and is known for promoting ethical accounting standards and financial transparency. The fellowship is the highest honor the association bestows, reserved for individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

    The Guidotti Group congratulated Ambassador Onolememen on the achievement and reaffirmed its commitment to excellence, integrity, and corporate responsibility.

  • Nigerian Industrialist, Achimugu receives President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award

    Nigerian Industrialist, Achimugu receives President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award

    A Nigerian-born industrialist and renowned humanitarian, Dr. Aisha Achimugu, has been honoured with President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her lifelong commitment to philanthropy and community service.                            

    The award, presented during the Innovate Africa Gala Night in Washington, D.C., highlights her unwavering dedication to empowering lives through her NGO, the Sam Empowerment Foundation.

    In a letter issued recently, announcing the prestigious honour, the White House praised Dr. Achimugu’s outstanding contributions, stating, “This incredible award honors and recognizes her lifelong commitment to building a stronger Nigeria through her service and impressive philanthropy to the masses. It is with immense pride and admiration that we acknowledge your dedication, hard work, and exceptional talents that have made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals.”

    The President’s Volunteer Achievement Award acknowledges Dr. Achimugu’s transformative work, which has uplifted communities both in her home country of Nigeria and internationally.

    Through her leadership and humanitarian efforts, she has championed causes ranging from education to health, while also addressing poverty alleviation and social welfare through her foundation’s outreach programs.

    Dr. Achimugu, known for her distinguished role in various sectors, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the award during the event. In her acceptance speech, she reflected on her journey as a business leader, philanthropist, and social advocate.

    “This year’s President’s Volunteer Achievement Award is more than just a plaque or a recognition; it is a call to action,” Dr. Achimugu remarked.

    “It is a reminder of the immense power we possess to make a difference in the lives of others. I will continue my work serving communities both here in the United States and in my native Nigeria.”

    Read Also: Aisha Achimugu keeps the flame burning

    The Innovate Africa Gala Night, where the award was presented, serves as a celebration of African innovation and leadership, further highlighting Dr. Achimugu’s inspirational story and the impact of her work.

    As she concluded her speech, Dr. Achimugu promised to continue her efforts, stating, “Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.”

  • Outpouring of felicitations as CEO Neveah Ltd Lawal marks birthday

    Outpouring of felicitations as CEO Neveah Ltd Lawal marks birthday

    Friends and associates have rolled out the drum in celebration of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Neveah Ltd, Ibidapo Lawal on his birthday. 

    They have taken to traditional and social media platforms in felicitation of the man they describe as highly resourceful, who has taken risks in venturing into terrains in business that have put Nigeria on the global map. 

    One of such messages posted on Instagram and Twitter that has attracted several reactions is coming from an Abuja-based entrepreneur, Kenneth Udeh. 

    He said: “Today I join associates in celebrating one of the shining stars in the business firmament who has in a short while demonstrated that the creativity and doggedness of Nigerian youths to excel in most difficult situations is not in doubt. With an iron cast reputation and integrity, you have offered our country enormous value for its natural resources, created a platform for our young people to build a career and excel”.

    Read Also: Tinubu felicitates with Oyetola on 70th birthday anniversary

    “I celebrate and commend you for all you do for humanity in the area of capacity building and raising the tempo for women and youths to maximize their potentials under the wings you have provided them. I have no doubt the future holds greater things. Happy birthday Mr. Lawal”. 

    Staff of the organisation have also sponsored a full-page newspaper in celebration of their boss in appreciation of his huge impact in their lives. 

    The full colour advert on dailies has a message. “Keep winning. Your outstanding achievements and leadership will be the success story we share for years to come”. 

    Neveah Ltd is a leading commodities trading company which deals with the export of solid minerals and agricultural products. 

    Since it was registered under Companies and Allied Matters Act in the year 2014, it has made significant contributions in providing alternative to oil revenue by pushing outside the shores of Nigeria numerous mineral resources deposited underneath the soil of the West African nation, agro-commodities, as well as logistics.

    One of the significant milestones it has recorded is that in 2022, it was awarded the Best Sectoral Exporters of Solid Minerals by Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and was last year ranked 18th out of Financial Times’ ranking of the 100 fastest growing companies in Nigeria. 

    The indigenous export company is also the first and only Nigerian company to take part in the London Metal Exchange (LME) Seminar during  the LME Week. It has done this for three years and counting.

  • Uchi Uchibeke revolutionises cross-border payments with Chimoney, Interledger

    Uchi Uchibeke revolutionises cross-border payments with Chimoney, Interledger

    As global businesses look for faster, more secure, and more scalable payment solutions, Uchi Uchibeke is making waves in the fintech space with Chimoney.

    This Toronto-based, Techstars-backed fintech company is transforming the way cross-border payments are made by cutting down the process from months to mere weeks, all while making it secure and compliant.

    With Chimoney’s expanded partnership with the Interledger Foundation, businesses across the world can seamlessly integrate multi-currency wallets, perform cross-border transactions, and unlock financial opportunities. Uchi Uchibeke, Founder and CEO of Chimoney, believes this collaboration with Interledger marks a pivotal moment for the future of global payments.

    Read Also; Death toll hits 199 in Vietnam typhoon’s aftermath

    “We’re at a stage where businesses can no longer afford to be limited by geography,” said Uchi Uchibeke. “Our Fintech-in-a-box solution is about empowering businesses—whether they’re startups in Africa or enterprises in the US—to launch secure, compliant payment platforms in as little as four weeks. It’s about bridging gaps between markets.”

    The integration with Interledger Protocol (ILP) allows for Peer-to-Peer (P2P) transfers and cross-border payments to more than 130 countries. Chimoney’s payment infrastructure ensures that businesses can accept payments, handle disbursements, and offer payout options to African banks, mobile money, airtime, and more.

    This capability aligns with the growing needs of clients across the U.S., Canada, and Europe who are looking for efficient, global financial infrastructure.

  • Malivelihood founder Awujoola honoured for contributions to African business

    Malivelihood founder Awujoola honoured for contributions to African business

    Multi-industrialist, jeweler, and socialite, Dr. Micheal Olusola Awujoola, the visionary behind No 1 Hotel and Malivelihood Jewelries, has been bestowed with the prestigious Professional Fellowship Doctorate in Strategic Business Entrepreneurship and Sustainability. 

    The honour was conferred by the Chartered Institute of Professional Registered Management Professionals (CIPRMP) in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the growth and development of the African continent and its diaspora.

    Awujoola’s unwavering dedication to excellence has been instrumental in his success. 

    His entrepreneurial acumen has led to the establishment of thriving businesses across various sectors. 

    No 1 Hotel, a luxurious establishment renowned for its impeccable service and world-class amenities, has recently been nominated as one of the top five hotels in Abuja. 

    Read Also: Firm targets opportunities in domestic, regional markets

    This recognition underscores the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences to its guests.

    Beyond his business ventures, Awujoola is also a prominent philanthropist. His unwavering commitment to social causes has seen him support numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of disadvantaged communities. 

    His philanthropic endeavors have touched the lives of countless individuals, making a significant impact on society.

    The award of Professional Fellowship Doctorate in Strategic Business Entrepreneurship and Sustainability is a testament to Dr. Micheal Olusola Awujoola’s remarkable achievements. His visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and philanthropic contributions have solidified his position as a respected figure in the business world and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs across Africa.

  • Stephanie Ikolo wins global recognition award

    Stephanie Ikolo wins global recognition award

    The Judging Panel of the  Global Recognition Awards has recognised Stephanie Ikolo with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for her extraordinary ability and notability in the field of business consulting and services. 

    The panel said Ikolo has led initiatives that have transformed internal audit departments, optimised business processes, and mitigated significant risks within her organization. 

    Her leadership in directing an internal audit transformation, which resulted in a 35 percent increase in audit effectiveness and an annual savings of $112 million, the panel said, sets her apart as a leader in her industry.

    Ikolo’s achievements, according to the panel, extend to leading a Controls Transformation program that improved operational efficiency by 25 percent. 

    It added that this initiative was instrumental in aligning her organisation’s internal controls with strategic objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term success. 

    Her ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver substantial results has earned her this prestigious recognition.

    “Excellence in Leadership and Innovation

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    Ikolo’s leadership is marked by her innovative problem-solving approach and commitment to driving positive change within her organization. Her role as a Risk Manager and Business Analyst is characterized by a deep understanding of the intricacies of risk management and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential issues. The success of her internal audit transformation is proof of her ability to lead teams through complex projects and deliver results that exceed expectations,” said the panel.

    According to the panel, Ikolo has been firmly committed to professional development and continuous learning, which complement her technical expertise. 

    Her memberships in ISACA and the Project Management Institute (PMP), the panel said, highlight her dedication to staying current in her field and maintaining relevant skills and knowledge. 

    Her dedication to excellence, the panel said, has significantly contributed to her professional growth and positively impacted the organizations she has worked with.

    The Global Recognition Awards said Ikolo’s contributions to the business consulting and services industry go beyond her immediate workplace. It said  through her efforts in transforming internal processes and improving operational efficiency, she has set a new standard for what can be achieved in risk management, adding that her work has influenced how other organizations approach their internal audits and controls.

    “Ikolo’s success inspires other industry professionals. Her ability to achieve such significant milestones while maintaining a commitment to ethical practices and sustainable growth is proof of her exceptional talent and leadership. A 2024 Global Recognition Award is a fitting acknowledgment of her impact on the industry and her role as a leader and innovator.

    “Stephanie Ikolo’s recognition with a 2024 Global Recognition Award reflects her extraordinary ability to drive meaningful change in the business consulting and services industry. Her leadership in transforming internal audit and control processes and her commitment to professional excellence have earned her this prestigious honor.

    “Ikolo’s achievements highlight her individual talents and underscore the importance of innovation and leadership in today’s business environment. Her work inspires others and sets a benchmark for excellence in the industry,” the panel said in her citation.

  • Asulewon Babalola encourages youths to embrace self-belief for remarkable success

    Asulewon Babalola encourages youths to embrace self-belief for remarkable success

    Asulewon Babalola, CEO of LASPAG and Convener of the Mastermind Community, has encouraged youths and entrepreneurs to have confidence in themselves, emphasising that self-belief is key to achieving remarkable success and making significant progress in life.

    He shared this message during the “Entrepreneurs: Tales by Moonlight” event held on Saturday at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in Ondo State.

    “When you look at some of these terrorists out there, one thing they know for sure is if they want to take down an entire school like FUTA, they will do it because they believe in the firearms they have, they have so much belief in their faith so much that they will tell you that even if they die at it, they’ve done what they want.

    “So in this context, believing in yourself means that you know that you are capable enough to do anything you aspire to do considering the right morals.

    Speaking on the theme of the event, Babalola said the event is organized to encourage upcoming entrepreneurs, students and youths how to create a clear path in business learning from people who have toiled through that path and had successful outcomes.

    “If you trace the tradition of tales by moonlight, you will see it’s from our root, you will see that it was a gathering of children and adults in a way narrates stories of success, failures and wisdom for them and this is not just fairy tales to share alone, it was more of them to pick lessons and help them in their journey, even if it’s on a rabbit and a tortious, there is always a take home from that.

    Read Also: Protests in FUTA over non-payment of four-month salary

    “So in this context, at Tales by Moonlight what we did was to bring together people who have done so well in their field and for them to share with us how they’ve been able to do it so that we can take this information and use it to build ourselves in our own journey” 

    Entrepreneur and founder of Stylecity, Craky Brown advised that business should not just be seen as an avenue to make money, but a laid down system that will continue to bring yields even when you are no longer active.

    “The layman understands that I need to do business to make money, I don’t want to ask my parents for money all the time, but I am trying to create an atmosphere for people to understand that business is more than a side hustle, business is something that even after you are done, it can still bring in money, we have people who are retired and they are still making more money than people who are active, so it is expected of you to build something that can stand even when you are not standing, so basically it’s about building a system ahead of time.”

    Brown noted that the path to achieving great business success might appear shaky and insignificant to friends and colleagues, but youths should not be discouraged.

    “At that time you are building systems for your business, it won’t really make sense to people around you, they will question your understanding about it, but at the end of the day, you are the only one dreaming, and the dream only makes sense to you at that point in time”

    CEO of Arise, Arise Adeoye Dideoluwa shared insights on how building quality relationship building is a huge criterion in business development.

    “As a student and a brand owner, I tell you without having good relationships with people, I don’t know where I will be, because there are times when I will be in class or on an assignment and a client will need a product of mine and I will just call a friend to help me out with it.

    “Having good relationships will save you from a lot of stress as a business owner, not only because of what you can savour from them, but there are many opportunities you can get from it.”

    Master Mind Community is a community of young entrepreneurs set to guide, train, and encourage them by creating a safe space where they can network, learn, and figure out things for themselves.

  • Atiku, Elumelu, Ooni, Otedola, others celebrate Prince Omoha at 29

    Atiku, Elumelu, Ooni, Otedola, others celebrate Prince Omoha at 29

    Prominent Nigerians including former Vice President Atiku Abubaka, Tony Elumelu, Ooni of Ife, Femi Otedola and others have identified with entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist,,  Prince Omoha , who turns 29 today by sending him warm birthday wishes and prayers.

    The notable leaders and business moguls shared joy with the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Prince Luxury Group, who has distinguished himself in the fields of business, leadership, entrepreneurship and philanthropy at 29.

    They rejoiced with the entrepreneur who was ranked amongst African Young and most influential personalities in 2021 by Africa Value Award (AVA) 

    Vice President Atiku, in his message affirmed admiration for the celebrant for the  pride he  has brought to Nigeria and Africa, with his achievements, lighting the way for many others to follow.  

    Atiku eulogised his combination of youthfulness, business style and broadness in networking, both old and young, and the passion with which he  pursues his dreams. 

    Read Also: Bode George takes on Atiku

    Prince Omoha was born on September 3 1995 in the city of Abakaliki. Within this length of time, Omoha has managed to give breath to his origin.

    To the business community, Prince Omoha is a champion of long-term investments. Alongside a markedly instinctive grasp of the trends of fortune and providence, Omoha’s mainstream business polishing is such that he never falls short of the mark, as evidenced by his upcoming strings of successes.

    Omoha has won multiple awards and accolades. In 2021 the Guardian Newspaper Named Prince Omoha among The 50 Most Impactful and Award-winning CEOs that Contributed to Nigeria’s GDP Growth in 2021. 

    In 2022, the VANGUARD NEWSPAPER SPECIAL REPORT listed Prince Omoha as One of the 50 Chief Executive Officers of Distinction in Nigeria

  • How I became visionary leader behind Nigeria’s prestigious humanitarian awards- Anabueze

    How I became visionary leader behind Nigeria’s prestigious humanitarian awards- Anabueze

    Emmanuel Anabueze, a renowned humanitarian advocate, has made a significant impact in Nigeria through his brainchild, the Humanitarian Awards and Magazine Event.

    This annual event celebrates individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference in their communities, amplifying their work, and raising awareness about ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

    Anabueze’s journey in the humanitarian sector began with the founding of the Humanitarian Achievements and Outreach Foundation, which provides support and resources to marginalized communities.

    Under his leadership, the foundation has launched initiatives addressing critical social issues like poverty, education, and healthcare, touching countless lives and bringing hope to those in need.

    Read Also: FG raises committee to resolve crude oil supply issues to refineries

    The Humanitarian Awards and Magazine Event, conceptualized by Anabueze, honors exceptional commitment to humanitarian causes, bringing together government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society organizations united in their mission to create a more equitable society.

    This year’s event in Abuja recognized key figures, including First Ladies from Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, for their transformative work.

    The participation of government officials and commissioners for women’s affairs underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in driving social change.

    Anabueze’s commitment to humanitarianism extends beyond event organization; it is reflected in his everyday actions and the ongoing work of the Humanitarian Achievements and Outreach Foundation.

    His leadership and vision inspire others to join the cause, making a lasting impact on those who need it most. Through his work, Anabueze has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with dedication and compassion, meaningful change is possible.