The Guardian’s Special Focus On Nigeria’s Most Inspiring And Definitive Top CEOs In 2023: Part Three: Batch Two

GLADYS NWADITO Mo’EKHATOR: Astute Professional, Proof of Unwavering Determination, Unparalleled Expertise, With An Unyielding Commitment To Excellence

Mrs. Gladys Mo’Ekhator stands as a champion in the realm of the oil and gas service industry, her journey a testament to unwavering determination, unparalleled expertise, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. With a career spanning more than two decades, Gladys Mo’Ekhator has carved her niche as a visionary leader, trailblazer and strategist, navigating the complexities of the sector with finesse and resilience.

In 1999, commencing her professional career at PPMC, Gladys embarked on her trajectory as a youth corps member, laying the groundwork for a career that would reshape the landscape of women’s involvement in the industry. Her tenure at SPG saw her enhancing her skills across diverse departments, from business development to marketing and shipping, as well as assuming pivotal roles as a liaison officer to NNPC/PPMC, DPR, NAPIMS and other regulatory bodies. She progressed in overseeing the loading of vessels at refineries and left an indelible mark, with her sterling work ethic and vibrant energy in the business of petroleum products business development, trading, and distribution.

In 2003, Mrs. Gladys Mo’Ekhator joined Sahara Energy, where she, leveraged on her deep understanding of petroleum products shipping and trading to drive unprecedented growth for the group. In 2005 for the recognition of her prowess, she advanced to the role of Director for Sea Support and was subsequently appointed as the Chief Trader for the downstream sector, orchestrating landmark offshore supplies of Automotive Gas Oil to ExxonMobil platforms, cementing her reputation as a stalwart in offshore product supply.

Transitioning to Petroleum Brokers Limited in 2007 as Executive Director for Business Development, Gladys wasted no time in spearheading the transformation of the organization making a remarkable turnaround within a few months of resumption. Her visionary leadership and strategic acumen propelled the company to new heights, setting benchmarks for excellence and innovation.

In 2011, Mrs. Gladys Mo’Ekhator embarked on her entrepreneurial expedition as the Managing Director of Bellpoint Energy Ltd, pioneering business operations with her typical unwavering resolve. Under her stewardship, Bellpoint Energy has grown and emerged to be a model of service excellence, forging formidable partnerships with industry majors such as ExxonMobil, Total Energies, NNPC, and Agip. Garnering accolades along the way for outstanding service delivery. Gladys’s visionary leadership has propelled Bellpoint Energy to the vanguard of the Nigerian oil and gas services sector, earning it a rightful place among the leading organizations.

As the Managing Director of Bellpoint Energy Limited, Mrs. Gladys Mo’Ekhator continues to chart new frontiers, her unwavering commitment to excellence serving as a beacon for the industry. With her visionary leadership, resolute spirit, and unparalleled expertise, Gladys epitomizes the essence of success, making her a luminary whose legacy will endure for generations to come.

BellPoint Energy Limited is a premier organization within Nigeria’s dynamic energy sector, offering comprehensive services spanning both downstream and upstream petroleum operations. Our commitment extends beyond conventional services to pioneering innovative solutions that empower individuals and enterprises to generate value.

Originally established as a petroleum trading company, BellPoint has evolved into a multifaceted organization, now providing integrated marine logistics solutions. Our fleet of diverse vessels caters to a spectrum of needs, complementing our expanded offerings in advanced energy logistics, procurement, and engineering services tailored to the upstream sector. Collaborating with leading global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), we ensure top-tier products and service delivery to our esteemed clientele.

With ISO 9001:2015 certification as a testament to our quality management systems, BellPoint is unwavering in its dedication to excellence. Our guiding ethos revolves around the perpetual pursuit of being the preeminent provider in petroleum logistics, marine operations, as well as Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) activities. Upholding international standards, regulatory compliance, and ethical integrity, we consistently surpass expectations, delivering superior outcomes for our clients.

Spanning across Nigeria, our operational footprint encompasses state-of-the-art facilities and a robust product market presence. Continuously strategizing to address the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s energy needs, we remain steadfast in our mission to meet and exceed expectations while navigating the challenges inherent in energy demand dynamics.

While describing the greatest passion that influenced her career success, the Bellpoint Energy boss noted that “In my career, I find passion in various aspects, but my greatest motivation stems from the fulfillment I derive from making a significant difference in forging advancement in whatever I do, in wherever I am, at whatever organization I belong to. With that clarity in mind, I develop an innate enthusiasm and channel my abilities to achieve and to succeed. This drives me to strive to create value from nothing to leaving a positive legacy wherever I am.

Commenting on the level of professionalism and astuteness involved in handling Bellpoint Energy Limited’s operations as a premier player in the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry, Gladys affirmed that she strives to be highly professional always and firmly believe in the principle that anything worth doing deserves to be done well and with integrity. In her words, “I refrain from cutting corners and meticulously analyze all available options before making pragmatic decisions. I endeavor to create a positive brand, encourage successful interpersonal relationships and always think of a lasting reputation of integrity with customers and partner organizations. Also, I believe an extensive technical expertise complements my keen attention to detail, further enhancing my perception when making key decisions. 

Additionally, the exceptional dedication of the staff at BellPoint Energy significantly contributes to our collective success. My professionalism was acknowledged through my appointment as a committee member tasked with determining the specification sheet for Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) while working with the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN).”

Speaking about the milestones and innovative approaches initiated by Bellpoint Energy and its impact on the industry in particular and Nigeria’s economy in general, Gladys Mo’Ekhator emphasized that “Reaching significant milestones has been pivotal in her organization’s journey, such as evolving from a small startup with a single product in 2013 to a major player in multi-products and services company among some of the International Oil Companies in the country. Securing partnerships with major trading organizations, participating in global energy conferences and winning awards as recognition for excellence are some of our noteworthy achievements” 

Similarly, our recent initiative of introducing BellPoint Energies which focuses on renewable energy and sustainability projects, while investing in research on other unique forms of alternative energy speak to our organization’s innovation drive while our additional presence in strategic locations both global and local markets mark significant progress in our expansion. Each phase of our growth representing a milestone in itself.

Regarding our approach, prioritizing customer satisfaction remains paramount. We approach every project with utmost diligence, treating each one as if it were the most important. Diversifying from downstream operations to upstream and renewable energy reflects our commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly transformations. Furthermore, we prioritize Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, underscoring our dedication to making a positive impact beyond business operations.”

Concerning ways to address obvious challenges in Nigeria’s Energy Sector in order to fast-track economic development and wealth creation for the country, she noted that “The government must enact policy reforms aimed at fostering a more conducive business environment. Prioritizing investment in local content development will bolster Nigerian participation in the oil and gas sector, alongside advancements in research and technology. Upholding regulations that align with international standards is crucial to eliminating sub-standard companies and services in the sector. 

Furthermore, ensuring that officials receive comprehensive training is essential to prevent the circumvention of regulations and the granting of undue exceptions. Addressing foreign exchange challenges is imperative to removing barriers hindering the full engagement of oil and gas players in the market.”

While recalling what she considered the toughest decision ever made and the lessons learnt, the offshore product supply stalwart said “Well, my toughest decision was resigning from a secure job to establish BellPoint Energy Limited. Launching the company was daunting as I lacked the necessary financial resources. However, I relied on my technical expertise and experience to gradually secure funding and initiate operations. This experience instilled in me the importance of facing challenges with determination and perseverance, reinforcing my commitment to my principles. Additionally, it underscored the necessity of adhering to ethical practices and avoiding shortcuts.”

As regards past awards and recognitions attributed to her leadership and advice on how more award-winning CEOs can emerge in the country, Mrs. Gladys Mo’Ekhator disclosed that “Some of my awards and recognitions include: Fellow Institute of Oil & Gas Research & Hydrocarbon Studies, ExxonMobil Quality Service and Responsiveness Award – 2022 and 2023, Customer Appreciation Award – Energy Shield Petrochemical Ltd- 2022; Outstanding Female Entrepreneur Award- Rotary Club of Ojodu – 2015; Distinguished Customer Award – Fidelity Bank- 2014 and 2015; Certified Business Enterprise – WeConnect International.

Meanwhile, to have more award-winning CEOs in the country, I will encourage the government to promote entrepreneurship by creating favorable business environment and initiatives that supports free enterprise. Also, I will encourage young professionals to cultivate a disciplined and structured personal regime driven by transparency and integrity with good work ethics in their various fields, this will set them on the right path to being successful in their chosen endeavor. 

LARE AYOOLA: Promoting Outstanding Leadership Through Innovative Techniques, Providing Sustainable Manpower Productivity, Impacting Nigeria’s Economic Growth

Lare Ayoola, the Chief Executive Officer of Transter IT, is a distinguished tycoon who is adept at envisioning and nurturing business opportunities across diverse sectors. With an educational background from the University of Sussex and a post graduate diploma in Theology, Lare exhibits outstanding leadership prowess. His versatile skill set extends to technology-based industries, where he excels as a problem solver, optimizing profitability through tailored designs to meet specific business needs. 

As the founder and primary contributor to the funding and growth of various companies within his group, including Tranter IT Infrastructure Services Limited (IT), Swifttalk Limited (Communications), Tranter International Limited (Construction and Supplies), La Mango Entertainment Limited (Hospitality), and IoT Africa Networks Limited, Lare Ayoola consistently exceeds the expectations of clients and customers, boasting a 99% success rate in delivering exceptional services and products.

His relationship management traits is highly visible with his relationship with renowned entities such as Shell Petroleum, Elf Petroleum, Total, Schlumberger, Lafarge, Manage Engine, Zoho, Microsoft, Sigfox, Nigerian Agip Oil Company, Coca-Cola, Heineken N.V., World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization, FHI (Family Health International), Unilever, and Banyan Global.

Throughout his career, Lare Ayoola has made a significant impact across key sectors of the economy, including Oil and Gas, Information Technology Infrastructure, Digital Economic Enablement, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Agriculture, Manpower Development and Job Creation, International Trade and Finance, and Construction. 

Lare’s impressive portfolio includes long-term relationships and major contracts with prominent international oil companies such as Shell, Total, Agip, Exxon Mobil, and Chevron, as well as successful partnerships with midstream oil companies like NLNG, PHRC, WRPC, KRPC, and Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals. 

In the banking and finance industry, Lare Ayoola has fostered long-term relationships with over 75% of the sector, including Union Bank, Sterling Bank, Wema Bank, FCMB, Zenith, UBA, First Bank, Providus Bank, Access Bank, Lotus Bank, Fidelity Bank, Taj Bank, Unity Bank, as well as leading insurers like Leadway Assurance, Old Mutual, and Consolidated Hallmark.

As the Group Executive Chairman, Lare Ayoola has founded and built several companies, employing over 500 staff members, including over 320 engineers. Other notable ventures under his leadership include Bullseye Digital Manpower Limited, MyShroom Africa Limited, Remelca Health Services, Cellsonic Wellness Africa, and Superior International, LLC (USA).

In recognition of Lare’s exceptional entrepreneurial journey, valuable international connections, industry expertise, and commitment to economic empowerment, he has been giving several awards ranging from 2018, Tranter IT Infrastructure Service Limited was awarded the ManageEngine Awards for its invaluable sales contribution to ManageEngine. In the year 2021, the Nigerian Technology Awards presented Tranter IT Infrastructure Services Limited with Software Service Provider of the Year, Technology Solutions Provider of the Year, and Technology Services and Support Company of the Year 2021. Tranter IT Infrastructure Services Limited was awarded the Most Outstanding ICT and IOT Solutions Company of the Year in 2022 by Africa Digital Awards. 

Furthermore, the Cyber Africa Awards Honours honored Tranter IT Infrastructure Services Limited for Excellence in IOT Innovation on December 9, 2021. Development in Africa Merit Awards presented Africa’s best IT support professionals of the year 2020 to Tranter IT Infrastructure Service Limited. Tranter IT Infrastructure Service Limited was awarded the Top 100 fastest-growing SMEs in Nigeria by BusinessDay Awards. Yaba College of Technology honored Mr. Lare Ayoola with an Entrepreneurship Award on September 18, 2010. The Tech Unite Africa Awards presented Tranter IT Infrastructure Service Limited with IOT Networks Africa and Tech Innovation Company of the Year in 2021. Enterprise of Ecosystem Support Awards presented Tranter IT Infrastructure Service Limited with Best Technology Supportive Partner for SMEs across Africa in December 2020. Lastly, the Titan Tech Hall of Fame Awards awarded IOT as the most innovative IOT Company of the year.

The Tranter IT boss’ passion for the success of Nigeria and the elevation of Nigerians to global leadership positions underscores his vision and mission, characterized by his perennial drive and hard work to contribute meaningfully to society. 

With his quest for building sustainable economic growth through manpower development he asserted that “Nigeria is rich in natural resources, but is also very rich in human resources and technical ability and is more than adequately well-endowed to succeed in the service industry with a boost in discipline-selective manpower development. Given the huge agricultural and natural resources base Nigeria can also do very well in the manufacturing industry with better R & D and manpower technical development. I need to mention that, in my opinion, the issue of inadequate power supply that has been a millstone around the neck of our manufacturing industry will soon be resolved as technology, knowledge, and the present determination to come out of the ‘darkness’, over-takes, and overcomes, the negative political agendas and economically retrogressive special interests. 

The local and international outsourcing industry in Nigeria, with reference to technology services, banking and financial services, consulting, medicine, wellness and care giving will soon become a major contributor to the GDP of our nation. Our English speaking local manpower, when well trained, well oriented and given access to affordable financial resources to engage in entrepreneurial activities, will be a major positive and nation building force to be reckoned with in the modern  industrial era. 

At the heart of our approach is the recognition that investing in both the development and the deployment of our human capital is paramount. We understand that the future belongs to those who are not only empowered but are also equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to harness the power of technology and science. That’s why for twenty years now, our organization has been dedicated to the mass development of high-productivity, technical and science-based manpower equipped with the ability to add significant value locally and internationally. By building and nurturing a skilled workforce, we are laying the foundation for a knowledge-based economy that can thrive across various sectors, including the services, manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-allied industries.

As the CEO of Tranter IT, I am deeply committed to driving this agenda forward, particularly through the lens of manpower development, the service industry and local manufacturing. When we look at the great strides and development that have taken place in certain countries that have focused on the service industry we must not ignore that industry and the tremendous benefits that can come from it.  Some countries in the world have benefitted substantially from just the provision of services even in the absence of natural resources in their territories. They have proven that the service industry can be a great economic force in a country that understands and has the passion for the service industry. “

Speaking further, he noted that “Central to our vision is the integration of technology into every aspect of production, industry and commerce. We believe that by leveraging modern tech-based productivity tools including smart technology and the brilliant energy-efficient and productivity-boosting smart solutions we offer today, we can add value and unlock new levels of efficiency and innovation. From smart and precision agriculture techniques that optimize crop yields to advanced manufacturing processes that enhance quality and volume of production, technology and skilled manpower hold the key to unlocking untapped potential and enabling sustainable economic growth.

Our efforts, however, extend beyond the confines of the factory or technology floors. We recognize the critical role that agriculture plays in driving economic growth, particularly in developing countries. That’s why we are championing initiatives aimed at implementing smart agriculture practices. By harnessing the power of data acquisition using smart (IoT) wireless devices, data analytics and other cutting-edge technologies, we can boost agricultural productivity, minimize the risks and hence exponentially increase the number of investors in the sector and ensure a stable and adequate food supply for our growing population. More than ever before food security shall guide the policies of our nation and we shall play our contributory role.

We are keenly focused on the agro-processing sector, which adds the much needed significant value to raw agricultural produce that makes the agriculture sector more attractive and successful. By establishing agro-processing factories that leverage local raw materials, we can create new economic opportunities while reducing our country’s reliance on economically draining and job-killing imports. We should be a net exporter of value added agricultural produce since we certainly have all that it takes to achieve that position. This not only enhances our economic resilience but also fosters inclusive growth by empowering local communities and the nation as a whole.”

In conclusion, the path to sustainable economic growth is paved with investments in manpower development, local manufacturing, outsourcing services and technology-driven innovations, agriculture and value-added agro-allied production. By embracing these principles, we can unlock new opportunities, drive productivity gains, and chart a course towards a brighter future for all. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, we invite you to join us in commemorating this milestone. Be on the lookout for exciting updates and events on our website and social media pages.”

GODWIN NWABUNKA:  Quintessential Humanitarian, Empowering Local People With Grooming Centre

Driven by a burning passion to help humanity, Dr. Godwin Nwabunka founded Grooming Centre in 2006, following his broad experience working with multilateral agencies and in the private sector. Having travelled across the world, seeing systems work and convinced that those successes could be replicated, Dr. Nwabunka took the bold step of leaving his comfort zone and floating the Centre to create sustainable impact at the bottom of the pyramid. 

In the past 17 years, under his leadership, Grooming Centre has expanded from one branch to a network of about 600 branches across 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory and has embarked on a digital transformation to provide value beyond its brick-and-mortar presence. With financial inclusion as one of the primary objectives of the organization, the Centre has provided over 12 million credits to MSMEs since inception, and non-financial interventions in key focus areas such as education, health, humanitarian relief, and community development through extensive corporate social responsibility initiatives. 

Bringing Vast Experience from UNDP, UNICEF Into Grooming Centre

Working at UN provided me the opportunity to travel very widely across the world, to experience different ways of doing business, different strategies of dealing with poverty, and increasing knowledge. I was frequently exposed to training, seminars, and new ideas, as the system is at the forefront of innovation and new thinking. Most of the things I learnt there formed the foundation of the work we do here at Grooming Centre. 

For instance, at UNICEF, one of the mantras that we have is that whatever you do must be in the best interest of the child. So, at Grooming Centre we built our processes around the tenet that everything we do must be in the best interest of our members, the clients. By putting our members at the heart of what we do, we created an ethical obligation that prioritizes the organization’s social performance as much as its financial sustainability. Again, in UNICEF, another mantra was do not harm the children; at Grooming Centre our watchword is “do no harm to our clients”. We take that very seriously, and that was endorsed by Grooming Centre being the first institution in Sub-Saharan Africa to be certified for Client Protection Principles almost a decade ago, which we have revalidated twice. So, a lot of my experience has translated to fundamental principles that inform the work we do at the Centre, from documentation to administration, the transparency of our system, and the frameworks that govern operations. 

The experience form the UN also prepared us in generating and managing partnerships for the work that we do. We have a sterling track record of working with major multilateral organs such as the World Bank Group, and international partners on a commercial and technical basis. We have a logical framework that ensures that everything we do is structured so that when we present ourselves to external partners, or for scrutiny via rating, it is not difficult for them to see that we run a serious operation. That experience was very fundamental and profound in the laying foundation of the success we have achieved at Grooming Centre.

Greatest Passion That Has Helped in Driving Grooming Centre

Seeing the everyday impact of our work remains the greatest driver for us. You know, it is said that the face of poverty is a child or a woman. When there is a crisis, those who suffer mostare the children and women. For instance, a child should be in school, get health care, grow up in a conducive environment and develop properly. Every parent wants their child to grow up and become better and so when a child is hawking goods when he/she is supposed to be in school, it usually isn’t deliberate. When you ask questions, it all comes down to poverty, livelihood, and lack of income.

Being able to sustainably provide solutions to livelihood and income problems is a source of fulfilment. Access to credit and other financial services allows many women microentrepreneurs generate income to educate their children and run their households and creates a multiplier effect of benefits to the larger economy. At the UNDP, I worked extensively on Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Economic Planning, Private Sector Activities, amongst others, ensuring that those sectors formed the engine of growth in the economy. Even my PhD thesis was on Small and Medium Enterprise Development. So, it has been a point of satisfaction for me to align my education, my experience, and my passion to work at the base of the pyramid and transform lives.

Grooming Centre’s Impressive Corporate Social Responsibility Programmes

We have provided research grants to undergraduates and post-graduates over the past 5 years, more than N150 million for that alone. The grants are to encourage young people in the tertiary institutions who are doing their research to begin to look at the bottom of the pyramid and the broad opportunities for learning that exist within the enterprise development space. 

We also have a scholarship for secondary school students, called the Lady Kate Okafor Scholarship Scheme, in honour of one of our former Governing Council members that we lost. She was an educationist to the core. We started with 500 annual scholarships to fully cover senior secondary education for the beneficiaries, and we are now giving a thousand scholarships per year. Over the past 6 editions we have donated close to N500 million over the past six to seven years.

Also, five years ago, we started the Grooming Talent Hunt. It began like a joke while watching one of these talent shows, and I told a friend that this can happen locally too.Now it is growing big, and we are very excited. We believe that talentsexist and can in Nigeria. Last year’s had entries from all over the country with over 2000 entries and this year will be bigger. Going forward we also want to set up talent clinics, even though you don’t win, we can work with participants to brush their skills. 

Similarly, we can link you up to other programmes like the Grooming Empowerment Trust (GET). The Trust provides venture capital through grants and concessional funding that helps young people who have bright ideas gain access to funding and mentoring through its accelerator programmes. We try to create networks so that beyond coming to compete, we can take your ideas, work with you, and develop it into enterprises that will create jobs and help to tackle poverty. So, we are always on the lookout on how to add value at the bottom of the pyramid.

Grooming’s Success Stories

We have lots of success stories from our clients. In 2021, we published a coffee table book titled Stories of Impact, chronicling the testimonies of 30 women at the base of the pyramid who took bold steps in transforming their lives, and the role Grooming Centre played in those journeys. We measure our impact through internal and externally implemented socioeconomic impact assessments, and the data shows the level of progress we have made in our mission to empower people. We are intent on documenting and telling our story, to show that these things can be done, and we do not need to reinvent the wheel with regard to harnessing the power of women and the power of the informal sector to catalyze socioeconomic development. 

We are also proud to have recorded success at institutional level. We were recently honoured at the Global SME Finance Awards 2023, organized by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the G20, in the category of Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs. We have been consistently rated in the top 10 institutions globally for institutional and social performance in microfinance by MicroRate, the foremost rating agency for our sector.

Challenges Surmounted

The past few years have been very interesting and challenging but have also offered the opportunity for us to continuously enhance our operations for sustainability. COVID-29 came and changed our mindset with the way we delivered value to our clients, because of the lockdown. Everyone was at home, but people still needed to eat and do basic trade and services for survival. Whether or not the system is working, there are some basic things that must occur. We found out that we were a high-contact organization; we began to work vigorously on our digital resources. Even though we had started our digital journey before then, we had to reinforce so that we could connect with our clients. We had to completely change our processes. Despite the changes during COVID-19 and the fact that all staff were at home, we were able to meet all financial obligations to our staff and stakeholders. 

We found out that one step is to digitize ourprocesses at the back end for efficiency, but our clients must be put into considerationregarding the development of channels to serve them. Consequently, we developed our SmartBiz platform that enables our clients to manage their inventory and their cash flow. We are integrating that portal with our enterprise software sowe can gain better insights into our clients’ behaviour, preferences, and desires. 

Last year, the redesign of the Naira and demonetization exercise dealt a huge blow to the bottom of the pyramid where cash still reigned supreme. As such, the informal economy was crippled for the first quarter of the year, and effectively for the first half of the year. Things have picked up since then, despite galloping inflation and depreciation of the exchange rate, albeit slowly. We are still striving and optimistic that we can provide value to microentrepreneurs and small businesses as the economy stabilizes over the next 12 months.

PATRICK UDUMA; High Caliber, Resourceful Oil and Gas Expert, Creating Impact With Icren Services Limited

Mr. Patrick Uduma, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Icren Services Limited, is a man whose character speaks integrity, his expertise defines efficiency and his life is a roadmap for professionals who believe that hardwork and playing according to ethics is recipe for career satisfaction. He is a high caliber, competent and resourceful Oil and Gas Expert with excellent proven track record.

With a background experience in banking industry, Uduma joined the environmental engineering industry over a decade ago and has since achieved recognition as an exceptional operator in project execution and delivery. In his decade of experience, he has coordinated his team to execute to completion over 60 projects in various locations involving; clean-up of oil spills, Containment, Recovery and Evacuation of Spilled crude, Environmental Assessments, Remediation of impacted sites, Post certification impact assessment.

Uduma is also a Mediative Leadership Expert with a known profile on the subject of leadership that spans across the African continent. His leadership ideologies and self-developed, tested and proven principles are operational in several governmental and non-governmental institutions in various African countries where he had been a keynote speaker and a trainer. Some of these countries where he has shared his astute leadership principles and thoughts include but not limited to Rwanda, Togo, Benin Republic, Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and, of course, Nigeria.

As a global Mediative Leadership Expert, he is the founder and convener of StandOut with Patrick Uduma (@soistandout), a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) aimed at challenging the status quo and redefining standards. More to his passion for excellent leadership is the establishment of various supportive platforms through which quality leaders are groomed for quality leadership. These platforms include StandOut Radio, iLead Change and the Boy-Child Project.

He leads a formidable team as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer at Icren Services Limited (www.icrenltd.com) and MD Mart (www.mdmartngltd.com). A seasoned executive with over 15 years of experience in the Oil and Gas industry and a business and financial coach, who has trained over 8,000+ leaders; this qualifies him as a leadership expert. He is also on the board of reputable organizations: HIVE Africa; Equip Africa; National Bamboo Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria; CAREHUB Foundation; Centre for Creative Development Strategies and many more. 

An Alumnus of the prestigious the University of Port Harcourt, fellow of The Chartered Institute of Commerce in Nigeria (FCICN), Institute of Information Management Africa (FIIM), and The Institute of Oil and Gas Research and Hydrocarbon Studies (FIOGR), Patrick has also received numerous awards and recognitions which includes; Nigeria’s 100 Most Innovative CEOs 2020 – The Guardian Newspaper; Business Excellence in HSE Compliance – Nigerian National Legacy Awards 2021; CEOs award from The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Nigeria Limited, just to mention a few.

Guided by the principle of achieving success, Patrick has also undergone various trainings and courses which have fortified him with the requisite skill-set to deliver client needs, including; OSR Training with Vikoma International Ltd, 2006, Slow Water and East Water Booming Techniques Portland, Oregon 2011,  Norwegian Oil Spill Control Association Seminar 2010, Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), Oil Spill Familiarization Course, Southampton UK, 2010, 2012, 2014, NOSCA Seminar and OPV 2013, 2014, MCA Accredited IMO Level 1 Trainer.

Commenting on the mode of operation at Icren Services Limited, the forward thinking Patrick posited that ensuring that they maintain the status of being one of the sought after and globally recognised environmental engineering company that thrives on operational excellence has always been a guide in all their projects.

In his words, “Technological progress in our modern days has become the most important factor governing every aspect of our lives. The constant evolution of science to solve both problems created by man and problems created by science itself cannot be taken lightly or ignored. To this end, I recognize and utilize innovative standard of excellence while executing all projects.”

He maintained that Icren Services Limited was founded upon an ambition to impact the physical and corporate environment with unparalleled excellence and quality delivery, and at the core of the company’s success is a genuine interest in global environmental conditions and engineering needs, saying that this fuels their desire to meet client needs with the topmost efficiency, based on the principles adopted, and on the continuing innovative approaches they apply to meeting the client’s needs.

On services offered at Icren, The highly experienced professional, disclosed that Icren Services Limited started off as Icren General Services but has since expanded into the provision of environmental engineering services including; Engineering, Procurement and Construction for Oil and Gas, Oil Spill Response, Control and Cleanup, Soil and Ground water Remediation, Production of Containment Boom, Waste Management Services, Training and Personnel Outsourcing and Marine Engineering Services

He stated that “With clients like SPDC, Total, Exxon Mobil, and NAOC, ICREN has been involved in the management of several spill clean-up and remediation projects, showcasing the best practices and ensuring compliance with stipulated laws and regulations with maximum success in these areas.”

ABDULLAH MOHAMMED: Focused, Challenge-Driven Architect, Putting Vision To Work At Sheltercraft

Driven by his desire to use his architectural knowledge and managerial competence for the provision of solutions that create value in the real estate sector, Abdullah Mohammed  established Sheltercraft Limited few years ago to provide premium and luxurious housing and other real estate services, and he has been resilient in sustaining in putting his vision to work.

Inspired by his family background to study Architecture, his ability to transform his passion into a productive venture has provided employments for many people who are providing services through the Sheltercraft platform. Speaking on this, he stated that “My family background greatly inspired my career path. My father was a quantity surveyor and I grew up visiting building sites with him. In fact, during the military era, my father was Chairman of the Task Force that built what we now call Gwarinpa Estate. I was really fascinated by what I saw whenever I go to sites with him, and that really pushed me to become an architect.

Continuing, he noted that “Later, I decided to set up a platform through which my professional ideas can be expressed, and that led to the establishment of Sheltercraft Limited. Shelter is the pillar of wealth and the refuge of any civilization; it should be a temporary haven to its inhabitants. We at Sheltercraft Limited are in the business of fulfilling the insatiable desires of homeowners. We have evolved and are now providing services in the full cycle of real estate. We understand that we are still growing, and when we can’t handle project alone, we partner with reputable firms to deliver the best quality and give high return on Investments to our clients.”

Sheltercraft Limited’s ability to constantly deliver projects ahead of schedule is attributed to the high professional capacity it commands. Its culture of teamwork enables it bring together the best professionals which underscores its ability to deliver the best solutions to complex clients’ problems at the shortest possible time.

“With our team of architects and engineers, we undertake construction and design projects for individuals, cooperatives and corporate organisations. Our projects are aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound, our buildings are designed to be an experience for our clients. Our estates come fully finished or at carcass level where clients design their interior bespoke. With our partners, we provide clients with variety of interior design options and finishing. Looking at some of our completed projects like the Upland Mall, in Kado and Jahi Ornate, both in Abuja, one can see that we prioritize quality.” he explained.

With a clear mission of his professional engagements, and in spite of challenges he is encountering as a Chief Executive Officer, Abdullah Mohammed has been putting the resources at his disposal to best use, and this is making it possible for him to continue to create value. Highlighting the challenges being encountered in the sector, he explained that, ” The challenges involved with running businesses in Nigeria are getting enormous, and the real estate sector also has the ones that are specific to the sector. The number one problem is lack of policy consistency which sometimes affect long term planning. Nigerians are very creative and hardworking, but policies that can optimise their growth must be put in place . It is disturbing that every administration and Minister prefers to start something new, rather than continue with some of the good ones they meet on ground.

In Abuja where we are operating, the last 8 years was tough, and with this current administration and its removal of subsidy on petroleum and floating of the Naira, it has become tougher. The astronomical increase in the price of cement and other building materials is really affecting ongoing and new projects in this sector. For us at Sheltercraft, our integrity has been a plus during this challenging period, and this has endeared us to our clients. We don’t involve in incessant price increase or comprise quality to maximize profit. We value our clients and we sit with them to arrive at acceptable price variation whenever the need arises.”

Looking ahead, Abdullah informed that “We are focused on accelerating the execution of our growth strategy while continuing to build on the strength of our brand — in helping our clients share knowledge and create innovation and in bringing positive change to the communities in which we work and live. I am excited about this journey, how far we are now and the solutions and impact we have provided and made. Sheltercraft’s best is yet to come. In addition to what we have done, we have an upcoming project in Katampe, Abuja. It is called The Twelve by Sheltercraft. It comprises of 12 units of 6 bedroom terraces and 12 units of 3 bedroom apartments. It is a well planned and designed project that will give maximum value to our clients.”

AYO BANKOLE AKINTUJOYE: Award-Winning Transformation Expert, Making Waves with Caladium Consulting

There are gems and there are gems, but the true gem is the one that stands the test of quality, grit and time, Ayo Bankole Akintujoye, Chief Executive Officer, Caladium Consulting, shines in every sense of the word. A gentleman of note and high moral standing, he passes through life with irrepressible zeal and effervescence, reminding himself of more steps to be climbed in his career. Ayo is an experienced strategy and transformation professional who has shown the stuff he is made of in different capacities, including leadership roles as the head of Strategy Group in the capital market, insurance and Oil and Gas industries.

With over 14 years of relevant experience, Ayo has provided strategy advice to over 210 companies, governments, and development institutions, including the AfDB, World Bank, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Bristow Group, Actis, Axa, and many other large and SME organizations with transactions value of over $120million. His consulting experience cuts across strategy & execution, transformation & corporate turnaround, process improvement, due diligence, merger & acquisition, to mention a few.

Ayo is a man who has achieved success by dint of hardwork, an entrepreneur par excellence, an advocate of good governance and the growth of MSMEs as the key to unlocking Africa’s economic potential. He is the convener of the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp, a platform he co-founded to help enhance the business management skills of MSMEs to reduce their risks of failure and contribute to the universal goal to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure peace and prosperity, otherwise called the SDG8. 

He has supported over 7,000 SMEs via the Bootcamp and through Caladium Consulting, to provide MSMEs with access to first-class professional services. Ayo-Bankole also leads the team at FedaCash, a startup that is leveraging technology tools to provide solutions to the challenges MSMEs have with working capital adequacy and inventory turnover.

Due to his excellent leadership and organization, Ayo and Caladium Consulting have received numerous awards and recognitions from prestigious organizations including, Business Day Newspapers Top 100 SMEs in Nigeria in 2023, The Ooni of Ife Royal African Youth Leadership Awards, 2020, The National Quality Order of Merit Awards, Most Innovative Business Management Consulting Firm of the Year Award 2023, 2023 Ten Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria Awards by Junior Chambers International, 2023 Iconic Brand Awards – Business Leader of the Year, Global techie Initiative’s Meritorious Award, AIESEC Ibadan Distinguished Award of Excellence, Nominee, Hajia Gambo Sawaba Award for Community Action 2022, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria – Distinguished Award of Recognition, etc.

On strategies adopted to expand its portfolio, the visionary caladium boss disclosed that initially, the company was established with a goal of helping nano, medium and small businesses succeed but as time went on they noticed that this class of businesses could not sustain the company and they immediately extended the services to medium scale and large businesses. In his words “This was a natural process in that it was not long before we started gaining significant traction in the market for a few reasons, which we believe are our strategy. 

We committed to providing the same or even better quality of service than the global giants in the industry. As a result, almost all our roughly 200 clients over the years came via referrals. We also established the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp to provide businesses in the nano micro, and small enterprise market segments with pro bono services which helped us create domain authority. Some of these businesses have now grown and can afford our services. In addition, we owned strategy execution and became the best, if not the only, seller of that product in our market segment. The simple reason is because execution is hard, and we have grown in capacity to do the hard work.”

He stressed that Caladium Consulting is a company with a difference due to some of the qualities they have adopted over the years which sets them apart from others; saying that Caladium Consulting is a niche-focused brand with clear domain authority in the SME market in Africa. “Of course, when your services are great, you will catch the attention of the big names.” He added that the quality of the experience the company create for its clients is another unique identifier that have always set them apart as this is why every single client that they have served has either retained the company or referred it to another.

Ayo, who has a certificate in Disruptive Strategy from Harvard Business School, a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lagos, and a Bachelor’s degree from the premier University of Ibadan, he commented on the services being offered at Caladium Consulting, according to him, Caladium core services are; Organizational Transformation and Restructuring, Deals and Financial advisory, Human Capital Development and Performance Management, Strategy Planning Services and Business Process Improvement 

On the company’s future projection, “For us, we prefer to take one thing at a time. Over the past two years, we have been quietly building our sister firm, Fedacash. For now, the goal is to get Fedacash off the ground while we gradually and organically expand our scope of operations. We are also looking forward to expanding the reach and scope of the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp to metamorphose into a full-blown fellowship program. The Caladium SME Fellowship program is scheduled to kick off in 2024”, he disclosed.

YETTY OGUNNUBI: Global Brand Management Cum PR Expert, Blazing the Trail With YD Limited

Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, also known as ‘Yetty’, is the CEO of YD Limited and The YD Company, an award-winning PR and Brand Management agency. With over 19 years of experience in Public Relations and Brand Management, she is highly regarded as a business development, PR, and marketing expert. Yetty specializes in the fashion, arts, and corporate sectors, offering   services   such   as PR, marketing, image branding, project management, and event coordination. She has successfully executed publicity campaigns for a diverse portfolio of clientele, including SMEs, corporations, and governments. Dr. Yetty has also organized fashion and corporate exhibitions, creative events, and press conferences, enhancing the visibility and reputation of emerging and established brands.

In addition to her role as CEO, Yetty holds an impressive academic background. She has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Brand Strategy & Communication (Honoris Causa) and is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM MCIM). She is also a certified Management Consultant (CMC) and a Certified Management Specialist (CMS) from the London Graduate School. Dr. Yetty is recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC) and is renowned for her entrepreneurial accomplishments in the fashion industry.

Born into a prominent artistic family known as KNATHA in Nigeria, Yetty inherited a creative spirit. She spent her early years between Lagos State and Ogun State and later relocated to the United Kingdom. While establishing herself as a fashion entrepreneur in London, she made significant contributions as a writer and editor for esteemed fashion magazines in the UK. Her talent and creativity also extend to illustrations featured on book covers, products, and various art projects.

Throughout her career, Yetty has been involved in numerous ventures, showcasing her versatility and passion for the industry. In 2009, she collaborated with her iconic uncle, Lemi Ghariokwu, a renowned artist, to create fashion pieces using his cover art for FELA TOUR (Arts Own Kind). Her fashion designs have been featured in international magazines, blockbuster movies, and music videos. In 2012, she co-produced Uber Africa Unmasked UK, a reality TV show aimed at discovering the next top African-inspired designer.

Recognizing the growing demand for PR and branding services, Yetty founded her PR agency, The YD Company, a PR, Marketing Communications firm that specializes in corporate, consumer, and lifestyle brands. The company is a hybrid Public Relations Company that is committed to delivering result-driven solutions for it clients, with expertise ranging from creating brand images and unique stories to managing events and penetrating markets. The company prides itself in the delivery of professional and international standard offerings mixed with the ingenious local blend tailored to specific branding requirements and considerations of its clients. 

Dr. Yetty’s proficiency in communications and brand management led to an array of accolades, including the Pride of Africa Award at the 2018 PFW Africa Event and the ForeMag PR Person of the Year award in 2018. She was also honored as one of the BusinessDay’s “Top 100 fastest-growing SMEs in Nigeria for 2023”.

ELVIS L. ABUYERE: Blessed with Uncommon Ingenuity to Achieve Uncommon Feats With Skyewise Group

Dr. Elvis L. Abuyere, the GMD/CEO of Skyewise Group, is a remarkable Nigerian entrepreneur with over 15 years of professional experience in banking and business management. His illustrious career includes stints at Skyebank PLC and First Bank PLC, where he achieved significant business results across various domains such as Finance and Accounts, Marketing, and Procurement Unit. Additionally, he excelled in Human Resource Management.

Abuyere embodies self-motivation and goal-oriented thinking. He tackles life’s challenges head-on, employing an analytical negotiation style coupled with a positive mindset to devise effective solutions. His academic journey led him to earn a PhD from Escae University in Banking and Business Management. He is also a proud member of the Chartered Institute of Leadership and Governance (USA).

Driven by a relentless pursuit of success, Dr. Abuyere ventured into entrepreneurship, strategic management, and business development. He founded the Skyewise Group, which has diversified into various sectors. His commitment to humanitarian service earned him recognition, including the prestigious Excellence in Business Management Award at the Africa Value Awards in July 2021.

Under his leadership, the Skyewise Group has emerged as a prominent player in the Nigerian automobile and financial services industry. Their commitment to sustainable investment platforms and value-driven solutions sets them apart. From humble beginnings in Ikorodu, Abuyere’s unwavering vision transformed obstacles into profitable ventures, propelling him to success.

Furthermore, Dr. Abuyere established a foundation to empower Nigerian youth, fostering self-reliance through regular entrepreneurial initiatives. He has been able to empower over 1000 young people in Abuja and within Nigeria.

His journey from adversity to achievement exemplifies resilience and integrity, making him a true icon in the Nigerian business landscape.

Through his astuteness, the forward thinking and visionary Skyewise Group boss, who is also a man with ingenuity to achieve uncommon feats, has garnered several prestigious awards and recognitions throughout his illustrious career, including Excellence in Business Management Award: Dr. Abuyere received this well-deserved accolade from the Africa Value Awards in July 2021. His exceptional leadership and strategic acumen set him apart in the business world. SME CEO Award: Business Day newspaper recognized Dr. Abuyere as the SME CEO of the Year in 2021. His commitment to excellence and innovative thinking contributed to this remarkable achievement. Best Investment and Automobile Brand Award (2022): Under Dr. Abuyere’s guidance, the Skyewise Group emerged as the best investment and automobile brand in Nigeria. This prestigious recognition highlights their commitment to value-driven solutions and sustainable investment platforms.

Abuyere’s journey from adversity to success exemplifies resilience, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His impact on the Nigerian business landscape continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.

The well–grounded entrepreneur, Abuyere shared light on navigating entrepreneurship challenges in Nigeria, insights and solutions, saying that the economic landscape in Nigeria during the first half of 2023 has been marked by a decline in real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, influenced by global economic challenges. He added that the impact of these challenges, coupled with domestic policies, has created a complex environment for businesses. 

Therefore, he identified the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Nigeria and suggested solutions to help young entrepreneurs navigate these issues. These include the economic downturn; the weakened economic development has led to decreased economic growth, increased inflation, poverty, crime, and job losses in the informal sector. The solution revolves round entrepreneurs to be focused on diversification, exploring new markets, and adapting their business models to the evolving economic landscape.

Secondly, the implications of government reforms; critical reforms, such as the elimination of the petrol subsidy and FX market changes, have negatively impacted businesses. The solution to this challenge will be that entrepreneurs should closely monitor policy changes, adapt quickly, and advocate for policies that promote business growth and sustainability.

Thirdly, security and political tensions: lingering security challenges, labour agitations, and political tensions create uncertainties for business owners will be resolved with entrepreneurs investing in robust security measures, engage in social responsibility initiatives to address community concerns, and stay informed about the political landscape.

The third is operational effectiveness and the issue here is achieving operational effectiveness amidst economic challenges. The solution is to focus on building and maintaining relationships, practicing emotional intelligence, effective problem solving, and critical decision-making. Adopting organizational skills and time management is crucial for optimizing operations.

On the need for resilience and innovation in the face of economic downturns, the solution is that entrepreneurs should prioritize continuous learning, mentorship, and coaching. By fostering a culture of innovation and embracing responsibility delegation, businesses can adapt and thrive. 

In light of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Nigeria, it is imperative to adopt a proactive approach and implement strategic solutions. Entrepreneurs should leverage their creativity, resilience, and innovative thinking to navigate the complexities of the business environment. The Guardian’s 2023 Annual CEO Series, focusing on “Nigeria’s Fifty (50) Most Inspiring and Definitive Top CEOs In 2023,” serves as a testament to the importance of recognizing and celebrating the outstanding efforts and contributions of business leaders to the stability and growth of the nation’s economy.

As an esteemed member of the Skywise Group, his recognition in this series underscores the significance of integrity-driven corporate practices in navigating challenges and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.

MOBOLAJI ORIOLA: Diligent Arbitrator, A Nation’s Pride, Delivering Excellence At Allen & Brooks

Hardwork, diligence and dedication to work have been his watchwords; that is why those who know him would never question his phenomenal rise as a professional, and that is the same reason every young and ambitious lawyer would always see him as a role model. 

Oriola Mobolaji, Founding Partner, Allen & Brooks is not just a lawyer and, he is also an investor, humanitarian and a rare administrator who has been contributing greatly to the development of law profession, as evident in how he has managed the affairs of Allen & Brooks, an award-winning full service law firm providing local, foreign, and multinational clients with a diverse array of legal and advisory services across multiple sectors. A firm with a very deep understanding of the legal terrain and regulatory matters combined with sound business judgment borne out of direct experience across different markets. 

Over the years, Oriola has gotten legal training and work experience from firms and companies such as Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company, Aluko & Oyebode, SPA Ajibade & Co and Perchstone & Graeys, with extensive experience spanning advising several top-tier Nigerian, international and multinational clients on energy and natural resources, Fintech, property development (purchase, construction, lease & sale), power/metering, license transfer, entertainment, arbitration, High Net-worth Individuals wealth planning, company restructuring, international business expansion and business strategy.

A recipient of Unity Bank’s Humanitarian Award and Professor Smaranda Leadership Award, who is also a nominee for The Future Awards Africa Prize for Lawyers. Mobolaji spoke on strategies adopted in expanding the firm’s portfolio over the years, being a company that delivers excellence. 

According to hm, “It’s interesting to have been recognised as a firm that has been at the forefront of delivering excellence and I appreciate the comment. Our major strategy for expansion is ensuring that we handle our clients need in most efficient manner possible. We deliver an excellent job to all our clients and they then tell others about their experience with us. That then attracts other people to us. Our major driver for expansion in terms of clientele is through referrals from existing clients.” 

He stressed that Allen & Brooks is firm that is very unique from others due to the fact that they are relatively young, full of energy, tenacious, and full of drive and flexibility that is required in a fast pace environment to meet all the diverse needs of their clients. In his words, “From Energy to Technology, Media & Entertainment, Dispute Resolution, Finance and others, we are able to deliver the same level of excellence across board. We are also one of the most cost efficient law firms in Nigeria and clients appreciate that about us.”

On some of the services rendered at Allen & Brooks, the Chairman, YLC under the Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Business Law, and Deputy Secretary, International Commercial Arbitration Committee, International Law Association (Nigerian Branch), Mobolaji, pointed out that Allen and Brooks is a full service firm that handle all forms of legal and business advisory needs for local and international clients, saying that their service offering are divided into practice areas which includes; Banking & Finance, Business Advisory, Dispute Resolution, Energy & Natural Resources, Media & Entertainment, Real Estate and Infrastructure, Private Clients and HNI Management, Technology, Telecommunications, Tax, Wills and Probate amongst others.

Commenting on the lessons that shaped his career as a CEO, Mobolaji who is also a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, the Institute of Chartered Arbitrators, Nigerian Gas Association, International Bar Association, and an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School, posited that the power of mentorship and education cannot be overemphasized as these have been the primary lessons that have shaped him as a CEO, 

In his words, “I have very successful people in my line of work who are my mentors. They guide me, shatter mental barriers and show me the path that should be taken. Secondly will be education. In addition to being a Lawyer, I have taken Executive courses on subject areas around Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy, from top universities like Harvard University. I don’t stop learning. I’m currently doing an MBA and I also just accepted into the University of Oxford Private Equity Programme for the 2024 cohort.”

He therefore enjoined Nigerians to follow the firm on their social media platforms and observe their activities as they maintain their fast paced growth.

TOBI BADMUS: Top Logistics Expert, Driving 8BM Freight System With Visionary Leadership, Utmost Integrity 

Intelligent, hardworking, and dynamic personality, Tobi Badmus is blessed with ingenuity to achieve uncommon feats.  As the CEO of 8BM Freight System, this versatile and enterprising manager has shown the stuff he is made of, through business initiatives and visionary leadership that has positioned the company to be at the forefront of logistics industry in Nigeria and beyond. A logistics and haulage company that aims to fill the institutional void in supply chain management through data analytics and technology. 

Founded in 2020, the company has since provided services to numerous businesses in industries such as manufacturing and distribution, technology, and FMCG. It has also served companies such as Olam, AFEX, Dangote, Alluvial, and many others. 

A unique brand name, 8BM prides itself in offering its clients a streamlined and effective logistical framework, enabling timely and cost-effective logistics. Tobi, a proud child of an educationalist, a technocrat, and a prominent community leader who instilled in him the ambition and drive to succeed, Chief Ajadi Badmus, the Asiwaju of Osogboland, boasts of over 12 years experience in the agriculture value-chain in a variety of capacities including operations, internal compliance, and control, sales, trade executions.  

Tobi, who is a graduate of Agronomy from the prestigious Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, also holds certificates in Financial Accounting from IESE Business School, Fundamentals of Management from the University of California, and Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies from Harvard Business School.

Due to his unwavering commitment to excellence, the 8BM boss was honored with the prestigious “Icon of Youth Inspiration” award by the esteemed Arewa Youth Advocacy for Good Governance (AYAGG), in recognition of his significant contributions to youth empowerment and leadership development in Nigeria.

When asked about strategies being deployed at 8BM Freight System to expand its portfolio over the years, a results-driven leader who is determined to build an effective supply chain system to build the African economy, Tobi said the strategy has always been “Client first” as this is what the company truly embodies. “When we are to provide services for our customers we ensure to be proactive with their needs so that we can meet them before they need them. What this leads to is a high service standard that ensures that all our customers’ needs are met every time. Additionally, we are always improving our processes and structure to better support our customer. We understand each customer and shape the customers team around their needs to ensure total efficiency.”

He maintained that this and many other different approaches to logistics as differentiated 8BM Freight System from other logistic companies, in his words, “When we look at a logistical problem or challenge, we understand the stakeholders at play and ensure that we understand the need of each stakeholder. This allows us to have a bird’s eye view of the situation and leads us to our solution and the problems that might be arise. This allows us to stay ahead and plan properly. Furthermore with our extensive data that we have been keeping, we can forecast market behavior and beat the market rate by advising our clients when to move”

The soft-spoken 8BM Freight System boss stressed that the company offers superior service to customers around the globe, with a team of experienced professionals who provides efficient and reliable services that ensures client cargo is handled with the utmost care. He assures that client’s cargo is in safe hands as they are dedicated to the highest standards of quality and safety. He added that “With 8BM, you can trust us to get the job done right, on time and with the best customer service in the industry.”

Tobi is no doubt a principled genius considering his managerial acumen, administrative prowess and business intelligence which he has always deployed since he became the CEO, commented on lessons that shaped his career as a CEO, he said he is a man that is always guided by the fact that a lot of the time when people speak, there are a lot of things going through their mind so their words might not fully capture what they are trying to say. So he learnt to truly listen without any judgment and ask the right questions, which has therefore, made him to understand that everyone has a reason they speak. “So if you understand everyone very well, then you can be able to help solve problems.”

Commenting on the challenges facing business in Nigeria and his sector in particular, the man with a never-say-die spirit posited that every country has its peculiar challenges and Nigeria is not an exception, but in his views, these challenges are surmountable as they have devised means to tackle it effectively. 

In his words, “The Nigerian business ecosystem is really peculiar and it has its own challenges that anyone will face. Within our sector one of the initial challenges we faced was ensuring the safety of our client’s goods. In the beginning we didn’t have any way and we only trusted our partners but now, we managed to come up with an intensive method of ensuring our drivers cannot abscond with goods, and this has also helped in our chase for speed and performance. Sometimes some drivers can be a bit laid back in their speed and performance but we have developed a way to ensure that this is adequately checked to see if there are any other challenges that cause poor performance on the part of such driver, and if there is none, we black list a driver for the bad performance”.

An entrepreneur of repute with vast exposure, he expressed optimism that the year 2024 is going to be a bigger year for 8BM Freight System as there is a lot in the pipeline for the company and its esteemed clients. Saying that 8BM is updating all its systems and data and aiming to achieve a higher market share in the industry, adding that the company is also working on finance models for stakeholder in the industry to improve efficiency of trucks and much more. He enjoined Nigerians to stay tuned to the company’s social media channels to get all the details.