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MOST INSPIRING INTEGRITY-DRIVEN BUSINESS LEADERS TRANSFORMING NIGERIA‘S ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE

By James Agberebi
18 October 2024   |   10:52 pm
The growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership, but the gradual erosion of values over the years has affected the quality of leadership available in different sectors in Nigeria. However, despite the enormous challenges bedevilling the Nigeria of today, some of her citizens who have continued to drive their passion and…

The growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership, but the gradual erosion of values over the years has affected the quality of leadership available in different sectors in Nigeria. However, despite the enormous challenges bedevilling the Nigeria of today, some of her citizens who have continued to drive their passion and competence with hard work, dedication, patriotism and integrity have been able to distinguish themselves in different spheres of life and are providing exemplary leadership for others.
Even while the nation is going through a troubled phase, the exploits of some of her outstanding citizens should not be overlooked. Nonetheless, what has been evident in recent years is that the exemplary deeds of these Nigerians are not being reported as much as the wrong-doings of the bad eggs in the country. This has resulted to a misconception in the international community and even among the nation’s youths about the people in leadership positions in the country, and the stereotyping of Nigerians as intelligent people without principle and character.
Thus, there is no advertisement as powerful as positive reputation. This has spurred The Guardian to correct the perception about Nigerian and Nigerians, and equally to let the youths know that there are still people they can look up to by showcasing a few Nigerians, who have achieved uncommon feats as leaders in the private and public offices, as well as those in other sphere of human endeavours, whose stories and life trajectories can help to positively shape other people’s lives and galvanize them to dream and pursue their dreams.
Here is the roll call of our selected “Most Inspiring Integrity-Driven Business Leaders Transforming Nigeria’s Economic Landscape” for this year’s edition: Prof. Ahmed Olaniyi Salawudeen, FIIN, FCIB, FCALM, P.D, ACII (London), President/CEO, Standard Group Holdings; Mrs. Lotanna Uzoka, MCIPM, FIMC, CMC, Group Managing Director, Kennedia Group; Prof. Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo, Managing Director, Falcon Corporation Limited; High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, OFR, MON, FICA, Group Managing Director/CEO, TILT Group; Dr. Vincent Osanyande Ebuh, Executive Chairman, Petrolog Group; High Chief Sir Kenneth Ejiofor Ifekudu Ifechukwu Nnewi, OFR, Chairman/CEO, Diamond Leeds Limited; Mr. Olayinka Braimoh, Managing Director/CEO, Hall 7 Real Estate Ltd; Dr. Adelana Olamilekan, Zenith Carex International Limited
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Professor Ahmed Olaniyi Salawudeen

“SICL’s Expanding Global Presence, A Testament To Dedication, Exceptional Services, Enduring Value For Clients” Salawudeen

He is a household name in the Nigerian business community, a reputed Real Estate Investment Adviser and successful Chartered Insurance Practitioner with a track record spanning over four decades in the global Insurance Industry. A philanthropist par excellence, Professor Ahmed Olaniyi Salawudeen, FIIN, FCIB, FCALM, PH.D, ACII (London), is equally an energetic leader with first class communication skills and a passion for impacting society through sustainable development. He is the President and Chief Executive Officer, Standard Group Holdings (SGH) – an award-winning diversified multinational holding Company. Globally, the Group’s specialized intermediary services in Insurance and Real Estate has facilitated rewarding annual turnover on behalf of clients and investors.
Among the companies under the SGH umbrella are Standard Insurance Consultants Limited – a top-tier Insurance Brokerage firm, SICL Reinsurance Brokers Limited – a specialist Reinsurance outfit, and Signature Global Real Estate LLC (SGRE) – a multinational Real Estate Brokerage and Property Management Company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Referred to as “the Dean of Insurance Broking in Nigeria”, Prof. Salawudeen is a frontline leader in the placement of various types of insurance risks including but not limited to Oil & Gas, Aviation & Space, Special Risks (Kidnapping & Ransom), Marine Hull Cargo, Protection and Indemnity, Construction/Operational, Agriculture, Life and Pension. Clients in the private and public sectors oftentimes rely on his wealth of experience and expertise on Insurance, Reinsurance, Loss Adjusting, Claims Management, as well as guidance in Emerging Market Developments and execution of Strategic Initiatives.
A graduate of the College of Insurance, Surbiton, Surrey, England, Prof. Salawudeen qualified as a Chartered Insurance Practitioner in 1976. He is an Associate Member of the Chartered Insurance Institute of London and holds Fellowships from the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, Commonwealth Academy of Leadership and Management, as well as Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers. Having successfully completed his thesis, he was conferred with a Doctor of Management Degree with Speciality in Insurance by the Commonwealth University, Belize.
For four consecutive years, in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, Prof. Ahmed Salawudeen was honoured among other distinguished international personalities with the “World Leader Businessperson” Award by the World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB). He is a Member, Global Club of Leaders and honorable Member, European Business Assembly (EBA), having fulfilled all the necessary requirements under the auspices of The Socrates Committee in Oxford, United Kingdom. Furthermore, he is the Chief Property Investment Adviser for Signature Global Real Estate LLC – a licensed Real Estate broker certified by the Dubai Real Estate Institute under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
He was featured in Dubai Expo Commemorative Edition of Titans of Africa – a publication by the UAE Africa Networking Group. The report profiled iconic accomplishments and success stories of 25 prominent Africans in the UAE. As a result of the innovative ideas and tremendous achievements he brought to bear in presiding over many successful businesses in and outside Africa, Prof. Salawudeen received a Lifetime Achievement Award of Excellence at the FIN-Forbes Africa UAE Trade and Investment Forum on 21st November, 2021 in Dubai. That same year, he was appointed as the WORLDCOB Ambassador to Nigeria at The Bizz Hybrid Awards held at St. Regis, Doha, Qatar on 23rd, November.
At home, he was recognized by The Guardian Nigeria as one of the “Fifty (50) Most Impactful and Award-Winning CEOs That Contributed To Nigeria’s GDP Growth In 2021”; and also “Nigeria’s Fifty (50) Most Inspiring and Definitive Top CEOs In 2023. Similarly, he is a Recipient of “Lifetime Achievement Awards In Insurance” and “Insurance Broker Of The Year”, by BusinessDay, for three consecutive years, 2021, 2022, 2023.
In recognition of his academic strides, he was bestowed with an honorary professorship by the academic Union Oxford (AO) for: “His role in uplifting professional and ethical standards in broker/insurer relationships, support for systematic continuous professional development (CPD) progranmmes in insurance, grooming of generations of executives, and championing of the economic role that Risk Carriers play in national prosperity”.
His personal goal is to be associated with the growth of sustainable businesses by providing exemplary services and exceeding the expectations of clients and peers.
A pious Muslim, doting family man and respected community leader, Prof. Salawudeen is a recipient of the highest honour given to the Faithful by the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria – an international charitable organization, for his contributions to the spread of Islam in Nigeria.
In recent years, Standard Group Holdings has pursued a successful strategy of international expansion with the United Arab Emirates as a focal point of the Group’s business, especially in the Real Estate Sector. The company is also gaining foothold in Angola, and Indonesia, amongst others.
While reacting to his recognition by The Guardian as One of the” Sixty Most Inspiring Business Leaders Of Excellence, Driving Nigeria’s Economic Growth” Prof. Salawudeen said the greatest passion that has brought him far in his career and business originate from the school of thought that says whatever is worth doing, must be done well. In his words, “The greatest passion that has brought me to this level is my strong belief that whenever I embark on something, the right thing must be done. Thus, if you want to be successful not only in the short term but forever, do things the right way. My word is a bond. As a CEO, this principle has brought me this far. When I looked back, I am happier, and it always gladdens my mind.
In addition to my principle of doing it “Right at the first time at all times”, I strongly believe that as an insurance solutions provider, we owed a lot of obligations to our mutual clients by providing excellent professional services by ensuring that: Claims are professionally processed through our claim Administrator and ensure that in case of an insured event, claims are settled promptly in the best interest of our clients. Similarly, our clients’ insurances are placed with financially secure Risk Carriers that will honor their obligations under the terms and conditions of their respective insurance policies. Furthermore, I believe strongly in the principle of professionalism and ensure that we comply strictly with the rules, Regulations and Act of Insurance as provided by the regulator, NAICOM.
At SICL, we take our clients as partners in progress. I believe if our clients are successful, that equals to our success, as company. Therefore, we do not see our clientele as a third party, but a strategic partner with a symbiotic relationship.”
Giving an insight into Standard Group Holding’s product offerings, especially the company’s current engagements, projects across the country and globally, he noted that “Looking back at the last 44 years, Standard Insurance Consultants Limited has achieved a lot, to the glory of Almighty Allah, for the broking business and the Insurance Industry in Nigeria.
SICL is committed to improving on the impact the Insurance industry will bring to the nation’s economy by bringing innovative products to the insurance market space. Our product offerings cut across all the major sectors of the economy from Oil and Energy, Marine and Aviation, Banking and finance, Agriculture, Mining and construction.
However, we are presently working with financially secure Risk Carriers to bring in more innovative products to the Nigerian insurance market. Some of such products include: Kidnapping and Ransome Insurance – a specialized product that will provide financial protection and support in the event of kidnapping and ransom situation. We are packaging this in conjunction with one of our foreign technical partners at Lloyds in London.
Secondly, we have created Medical Insurance in view of the importance of quality healthcare to the nation’s well-being – the Oraclemed Health Plan with our technical partner in South Africa, while the third is Mortgage Protection Insurance, an innovative product usually taken on the life of the borrower to protect the mortgage lender. The product guarantees the payment of the outstanding balance of the loan given by the Bank.
As we speak, there are a number of exciting projects in the pipeline to boost the image of the Insurance Industry such as the ongoing digitalization scheme. Over time, we realized that digitalization of our business operation is key particularly as technology advances daily. At the moment, our vision is to enable the insuring public to purchase all forms of insurance products online seamlessly and also provide a Digital Claim Administration process in order to ensure faster claims settlement to their benefit. Our aim is to bring the insurance service closer to our clients by enabling them purchase all forms of insurance products, online.
As a leading player in the Insurance and Reinsurance Industry, SICL has cemented its presence globally with a strategic network of offices across Nigeria and beyond. Our strong commitment to delivering top notch services and fostering strong relationship, has led us to an extensive outreach programme of opening more offices at the international arena with our representative offices in Ghana, Gambia and Angola. Outside Africa, we have offices in Dubai (UAE), Indonesia with partners in London and China.
At SICL, we believe in building bridges, not boundaries. Our expanding global presence is a testament to our dedication to delivering exceptional services and creating lasting value for our clients, partners and stakeholders worldwide.”
Speaking on Standard Group Holding’s success story, its cutting-edge advantage, growth trajectory and how the company has been able to earn the trust of clients and shareholders, the highly influential serial entrepreneur stressed that “Running a successful business in Nigeria is an arduous task. Nonetheless, at Standard Insurance Consultants we started over 44 years ago on a very sound foundation, still waxing stronger and Insha Allah by next year June, we shall be rolling out the drums to celebrate Forty-fifth (45th) Anniversary.
The basis of SGH’s success story and how it has been able to earn the trust of its clients locally and internationally is based on the pillars of Trust; Integrity; Professionalism; Strategic Selection of Underwriter/Risk Carriers; and Prompt Remittance of Premium to Risk carrier/ Underwriter.
Unequivocally, our brand stands strongly on the principles of integrity, trust and high level of professionalism in the ability to deliver on promises. However, the hallmark of our business innovation approach is encapsulated in digitalization strategy. We have in place a robust digitalization of our business operation process as a key innovative strategy. In this fragile and uneven period of global recovery and as technology is advancing daily, we at SICL came to the realization that for a better service delivery to our customer investing in technology is the way to go.
We also have in place training as a strong innovative strategy to combat any changes that may impact our line of business. Our employees are exposed to the best in terms of human capital development. All these innovative trends hold the drive for SICL development growth initiatives to boost our investment in the Insurance Industry, as we intend to turn these trends into an opportunity by focusing on people-centric solutions.
Basically, in the major economies of the world, the Insurance Sector has a major impact on business productivity and growth. In like manner economic growth also has a significant impact on the demand for insurance services.
Thus, SICL’s contribution to the Nigeria’s economy includes but not limited to the following:
First, we considered insurance as an enabler of economic activity by offering space for businesses to operate effectively and support organization business continuity plan without which an advanced economy could not function. Second, at SICL we provide a source of employment to the economy of Nigeria. Thirdly, as a corollary to the provision of employment, we also support the economy in Human Capital Development, through training of staff locally and internationally.
Although, the Insurance Industry can probably not claim to be the magic wand of economic growth, but it is certainly a lever for growth that could be pulled harder for the country’s economic development.”
With a career spanning over many years working experience, Prof. Salawudeen noted that he has taken so many tough decisions on career and company management. According to him, “The toughest was when I started my SICL. In 1980, over 44 years ago, I had to decide whether to continue to work as an employee in a company or setting up my own.
After careful consideration and weighing the pros and cons, I decided to start my own company. Standard Insurance Consultants Limited (SICL). It was a difficult decision because it meant that I would leave a paid job, and as an employer of labour, I must start paying salary of employees. Nevertheless, as tough as that decision was at that time, I knew that it was the right decision for my long-term career success. It paid off in the end, because there were so many opportunities associated with that decision. We were able to deliver a company that today is one of the leading success stories that exceeded stakeholders’ expectations in the Nigerian Insurance Broking Sector. This experience taught me the importance of taking calculated risks and being willing to make tough decisions when necessary. It also showed me the importance of collaboration within a team during challenging situations.”

Professor Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo

How Gas Flaring, Concern For Environment, Revenue Loss, Triggered Emergence Of Falcon Corporation, By Ezigbo

In one of his greatest articles of all time, the first Black President of South Africa, the Late African Legend, Dr. Nelson Mandela (1918 – 2013) says “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising, every time we fall”. This frequently quoted line describes succinctly the journey to accomplishment of Professor Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo, the Managing Director, Falcon Corporation Limited, – one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous conglomerates, holding a diverse portfolio of prime investments in the natural gas development sector of Nigeria, where it is also a pioneer in the nation’s natural gas distribution business.
Born in Abatete in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Prof. Ezigbo, mostly called “Prof.” – a University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and University of Manchester-trained Medical Parasitologist, is a man of many parts. He is a medical scientist, an academic, natural gas development expert, entrepreneur, business coach, philanthropist, community leader (the “Ezennia Orugo”), and many more.
In his words, “I love teaching but leaving UNN for business was the toughest decision I ever made. Within my time as a university lecturer, I graduated thousands of students within Nigeria and beyond. Even, a good number of them are professors now including the immediate past VC of UNN, Prof. Charles Arizechukwu Igwe. Today, I have quite a handful of my former students in the nation’s Oil and Gas Industry.
When I left the university, I came to Port Harcourt and started Falcon Corporation with my wife in 1994, and today, we are 30 years strong as a corporate entity.”
According to Prof. Ezigbo, what pulled him into the Natural Gas Sector was his deep-seated concern and observation of the volume of gas being flared, daily in Port Harcourt. Apart from the very unhealthy impact on the environment, there was a huge revenue loss which ran into tens of millions of dollars yearly, to government and the people of Nigeria. This has been the reality since 1958 when the first oil well was drilled in Oloibiri, in present day Bayelsa State.
He informed that “Although, after Nsukka, we got engaged in other businesses, yet, we knew where we were headed. Truly, it was a very difficult journey because we were literally outsiders in the Gas Industry. Nonetheless, we stuck with our dream like what the famous former First Lady of the United States (1933 to 1945), Eleanor Roosevelt says “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”. I do not believe in impossibilities.”
Sharing insights on Falcon Corporation’s operations and milestones, Prof Ezigbo affirmed that “Falcon is built on integrity. On 4th June 1994, we opened our first office in the city of Port-Harcourt. Our team worked tirelessly on research about gas development. Consequently, I wrote the one of the first comprehensive national position papers about natural gas distribution in Nigeria, and subsequently made a presentation to the management of the Nigerian Gas Company, and later to the Shell Petroleum, in the desire to harness the potential.
As time would have it, our company got a very good foot in the door with a company called Gaslink, who had a franchise with Shell Nigeria Gas in Lagos. The Managing Director at that time was Mr. Charles Osezua. That marked the beginning of our gas business in Lagos. That first opportunity was given to us by Charles Osezua of Gaslink.
Next, as a vendor for Gaslink, we converted the initial diesel engine of about 90 percent of the companies within Apapa, Iganmu, Surulere, to gas. Using gas is faster and easier because there is no need for the atomizing chamber, as engines are connected directly to the combustion chamber. Also, there are fewer moving parts, and not as cumbersome as a diesel or petrol engines. Moreover, gas engines are more durable than diesel engines. That was the conversion that Falcon embarked upon.
In truth, I learned on the job. These days, I speak at various platforms where I passionately submit on the proficiency of the use of gas engines. My expertise in Medical Parasitology, I would say, formed my very granular abilities into the Gas engineering realm. God determines all.
That was how we started until the Ikorodu Gas Project was born. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, saw the need to industrialize the country by Nigerians for Nigerians, using this very critical God-given resource. When NGC wanted to develop gas distribution in the Ikorodu axis, as the President at the time, he mandated that Nigerian technical capacities be harnessed and encouraged.
Thus, when the tenders came out, several organizations bided, and interestingly, we were successful after several bids, based on our presentation! At this point in time, we had proved our capacity to deliver in the gas engineering world.
When we got the approval, it felt so wonderful. With the good job we had executed for Gaslink, we were prepared for the gas world. God be praised!!!”
On Falcon Corporation’s unique brand attributes, Prof. Ezigbo stressed that “Falcon is built on total humility, unashamedly God-given, and God-driven. I am not afraid or ashamed to say that it was not by my power except by the grace and mercy of Almighty God. I will shout it from the rooftop anytime of the day because He has been there for me. Falcon is built on integrity, the foundation upon which we entrench humility and add value to people.
We give both internal and external trainings to our staff at least twice every year. Several people have queried the logic behind our training policy, because they are of the opinion that once well trained, staff can easily leave their current employee and look for greener pasture. But we are not bothered. Our motivation here is that we continue to add value to our team. Before they get here, they would probably have been trained by other organizations, and when they leave anytime, we consider it as part of our CSR.
At Falcon, we believe in our people, innovation, diversification and growing Nigeria. For me, gas distribution is not only about profit. First and foremost, it is a service to Nigeria. Today, we do more than distributing gas. We just started a 15,000 metric ton LPG tank farm in Port Harcourt to be commissioned between the end of 2024 and end of first quarter 2025, hopefully.
Presently, we are laying gas pipes in the Lagos Free Zone, in a joint venture with two other partners to distribute natural gas within that industrial cluster. Furthermore, my recent trip to Mozambique is to expand our footprints into other parts of Africa. We are positioning to become the first indigenous Nigerian multinational natural gas distribution entity, with the current moves we are making beyond our shores, within the continent.
God bless Nigeria!”

LOTANNA UZOKA: Championing Leadership Marked By Strategic Acumen, Innovative Solutions, Committed To Creativity, Excellence Within The Human Resources Landscape

Mrs. Lotanna Uzoka, MCIPM, FIMC, CMC, the Group Managing Director of Kennedia Group is a highly accomplished professional with over twenty years of experience leading and scaling businesses in a variety of industries, including Tech, Telecommunications, Oil & Gas, Banking, Cyber security, Real Estate, Finance, FMCGs, Engineering, Construction, Power, Manufacturing, Insurance, and many more. With a commendable track record of driving business growth, improving efficiency, enhancing employee performance and maximising profit; Lotanna currently sits as the Group Managing Director of Kennedia Group, which comprises Kennedia Consulting Limited (KCL), a cutting-edge HR Professional Services Company, and Kennedia Health Maintenance Organisation (KHMO) – a world-class Health Services Company.
Her leadership is marked by strategic acumen, innovative solutions, and a profound understanding of the Human Resources landscape, focused on spearheading transformative growth, significantly enhancing turnover and productivity, navigating diverse business environments, and delivering exceptional quality services to a range of clients, from startups to large corporations. Lotanna is committed to fostering a positive, productive organisational culture, people excellent performance, ensuring alignment with shareholder interests, and driving substantial growth. She possesses a broad range of competencies including strategic direction, Organisational Development, Strategic Business Execution, Personal Effectiveness, Personality Assessment, Behavioural Psychology, Human Resources Management, Corporate Communication, Board Effectiveness, financial and risk management, operational excellence, and employability strategy. Her approach balances analytical skills with a visionary mindset, consistently leading teams to exceed market expectations.
A graduate of Political Science from the University of Jos, Nigeria, Lotanna began her professional career within the banking industry, the popular United Bank for Africa (UBA), former Standard Trust Bank. In 2007, she joined Phillips Consulting Limited, where she worked for a decade, as the Recruitment Support Manager, and as the Head of Business Development, managing profit, people, process, and performance.
Dedicated to continuous learning, creativity, and innovation, Lotanna founded the Kennedia Consulting Limited in 2017 and has remained the Managing Director / CEO till date. With a passion of maintaining relevant and impact leadership while ensuring that her values align greatly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), Lotanna created the Kennedia HMO and continues along the growth trajectory. Lotanna’s greatest passion is developing people. Her focus is on building people, empowering people, and ensuring they have access to the tools to build their own better future. Her energy grows exponentially from developing people, building ventures, growing businesses, attracting new customers, hiring new employees, motivating old employees, satisfying all clients at every interaction, and building a people-oriented and result-driven organizational culture. She is relentlessly impatient with the status quo, and she constantly strives to surpass her personal and corporate goals year in, year out. This narrative is what have created and sustained the excellent culture at Kennedia Group. She is a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (MCIPM), a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), and a Full Member of the Association of Outsourcing Professionals of Nigeria (AOPN).
Under her prolific leadership, Kennedia Consulting Limited have been accredited and certified by The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), for Quality and Management – a globally recognized standard for quality management. The ISO 9001:2015 certification resonates with Lotanna’s firm commitment to excellence and quality in delivering service to all organisations of all sizes and sectors. Lotanna also ensured that Kennedia was enlisted as an accredited organisation by the Federal Government of Nigeria under the umbrella of the Centre for Management Development (CMD), the Oil and Gas Trainers of Nigeria (OGTAN), the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIBN) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
As a world-class Business Development Professional and Facilitator, Lotanna has developed and facilitated numerous instructor-led learning and development programmes on Organisational Development, Strategic Business Execution, Personal Effectiveness, Personality Assessment, Behavioural Psychology, Human Resources Management, Corporate Communication, Board Effectiveness, Conflict Resolution, Emotional Intelligence, Change Management, Inclusive Leadership, Interpersonal Relationship & Diplomacy, and hosted several Train the Trainer sessions.
Kennedia Consulting Limited and Kennedia HMO, founded in 2016 and 2022 respectively, are subsidiaries under the Kennedia Group. We prideourselves as one of the nation’s prominent professional leading services companies providing bespoke Human Resources, Financial Consulting, and Health services on and off the Nigerian shores, by generating value for all stakeholders.
In her words, “We are committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by businesses and professionals, striving to revolutionize the business landscape wherever we have our footprints. At every business and economic interactions, our thematic focus is to ensure we continue along the growth trajectory – improving lives, creating employment opportunities, driving economy growth, investing in new products and services, developing people, alleviating poverty, contributing positively to the vibrancy of the nation’s economic growth and development. Since its founding, Kennedia Group has continued to create bespoke solutions and professional business advisory services to all shareholders.
Our extensive network of professional talents and consultants ensures that we have the right strategy for every problem unique to every industry. We are fast-paced, meticulous, and thorough with our approach to business headaches, extensive in our interaction with each client, and unique in our approach and service. The drive to change the business landscape of the HR and healthcare space within Nigeria and Africa as a whole, one business, and one professional at a time is at the forefront of all our operations. Our strategies are innovative, cutting edge, and scalable to bring services and solutions, proven to be effective in not just guaranteeing business success but eliminating complications that grow from poor planning and execution. As one of our people’s strategy pillars, Kennedia Group takes an innovative approach to performance management – a continuous feedback system that promotes transparency and accountability in the workplace.
Kennedia Group is also committed to creating an inclusive culture where employees feel valued and respected. We have employee resource groups, knowledge sharing sessions, interactive team building & bonding initiatives, company-wide book review sessions that support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and offer learning and development programs to help employees build their DEI skills. Our approach to flexible work arrangements appeals to employees, allowing them to balance their work and personal lives better and encouraging a highly supportive company culture.
Within the healthcare space, we create value in the provision of encompassing health insurance, managed care solutions, and third-party administration on retail and group scale. Our service solutions lead to enhancement in health status of the workforce, increased employee productivity, reduced waste in manpower hours, and equitable access to healthcare benefits by employees. The business performance of Kennedia Group has been a positive one considering its size and length of time in the market.
Currently, we serve clients operating in more than 25 industries in the economy, including but not limited to FinTechs, Telecommunications, Oil & Gas, Banking, Cyber security, Real estate, Finance, FMCG, Engineering, Construction, Power, Manufacturing, and Insurance After articulating our corporate strategic pillars, along with the corresponding strategic themes, we have identified specific goals that are aligned with our objectives. By so doing, we ensure that our efforts are focused on achieving our long- term corporate vision and mission. We continually strive to achieve financial stability, provide exceptional customer experience and increase enterprise – wide capabilities.
At Kennedia, we take a balanced, financially- disciplined approach that generates long- term value for stakeholders. Our strong credit rating gives us the flexibility to pursue strategic growth opportunities and continuously invest in people, processes, and performance. We attract and retain long-term customers by providing highquality and professional services and expertise – from individuals to enterprises, local to global. The Kennedia Brand stands for Teamwork, Service Innovation, Commitment, Excellence, Collaboration, Respect, Empathy, Trust and Quality.”

High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola

How Tilt Group’s Critical Infrastructure Solutions Create Jobs, Strengthen Nigeria’s Economic Resilience, By Okunola

One Nigerian entrepreneur whose vision is in complete alignment with National Development Plan and who has since inception guided his company’s rapid growth from being a local company to a multinational consortium, is High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, OFR, MON, FICA, Group Managing Director/CEO of TILT Group – a leading multi-million dollar diversified Nigerian conglomerate working globally in a vast range of fields. With its all-encompassing subsidiary companies which are proof of its diversity and far-reaching potential, TILT Group confidently carries out its role as an international solutions provider in sectors such as construction, energy, oil and gas, agriculture, marine, technology and media, amongst others.
The company’s flagship, which is construction, began operation in Lagos in 2009. Since then, the organisation has built a name and legacy in Nigeria’s key economic sectors spanning agriculture, marine and the energy sector with a plan to extend to other sectors and markets in Africa.
Chief Habeeb Okunola, the Akosin of Yorubaland and Aare Tayese of Iseyinland, is a dynamic entrepreneur and philanthropist whose accomplishments were crowned in 2019 having won the ‘Excellence in Business Leadership and Community Development’ award at the Pan-African Humanitarian Summit and Awards (PAHSA) held in Abu Dhabi. This was in recognition of his quintessential business leadership, a clear acknowledgement of his forward-thinking business acumen, and his significant achievements in humanitarian initiatives, as well as socio-economic development.
According to Okunlola, “TILT Group’s origins and mission started with construction in 2009 and right from the beginning subjected itself to towing the path of global best practices, as well as giving serious attention to the impact of its projects in the communities it works in, and by keeping its operations environmental-friendly. No fewer than 80 communities and 3,000 underserved Nigerians have been impacted through TILT Group’s CSR activities which cut across education, financial inclusion, prison and security reforms, humanitarian emergencies.”
The Group has incorporated diversification as its driving principle in growing the nation’s economy and in the provision of sustainable development solutions. Client-focused with a reliable and proactive business approach, TILT Energy – a subsidiary within the Group, is an integrated energy company servicing the international oil and gas industry. Its mission is to provide solutions to energy projects through the implementation of innovative technology, competitive tendering, professional management and an outstanding safety record.
With its commitment to delivering exceptional quality and timely successful energy projects, TILT’s strategic role within the oil and gas industry, focuses upon providing a wide range of specialized solutions including local construction of class certified vessels, installation of pipelines, the engineering and fabrication of process equipment, providing gas compression services for the oil and gas sector and E&P products and services.
Speaking on past projects which included the installations of the Warri refinery, the deployment of off-grid solar solutions in Kaduna State, a 120-kilometre road in Taraba State and an ultra-modern Visual Arts Centre/ICT hub in Ilorin, Kwara State, Okunola noted that TILT Group’s strategic partnership with Schneider Electric allows the company to provide a wide range of automation and instrumental solutions. These include upgrading and overhauling of critical power infrastructure such as turbines and gas boosters for power plants in Nigeria – high value projects with a positive impact on the Group’s balance sheet.
With a mission to becoming a leading integrated company in sub-Saharan Africa over the next few years, TILT Energy also understands the importance of diversification and is also set on becoming an essential and quality solutions provider in the renewable energy industry but also understands the importance of the opportunity and growth that lie in Nigeria’s future as gas hub.
He added that “TILT is focused on having a public-private partnership with government in terms of providing power and other critical infrastructure and we are going to be investors in collaboration with our partners across the world. However, our keen interest is in the Middle East and Asia. Nigeria is the biggest country in Africa, with the largest economy and everyone wants to play in that system. Therefore, every real investor who knows what they are doing will want to be in Nigeria. The numbers are there, the GDP is rising.”
In complete alignment with the government’s initiatives of local content of endorsing its Year of Gas vision and mission, TILT Energy is dedicated to the cause of providing reliable and competitive products, services and solutions to the oil and gas sector as a means to boost national economic growth, and it is herein that, according to Okunola, lies the secret of the Group’s abounding success.
He stressed further that “At the moment, we are one of the fastest growing indigenous companies in Africa and our aim over the next 20 years is to ensure we are a major player on the International Oil Company Service.”
TILT Construction, the civil engineering focused subsidiary of the Group, has successfully executed over 700 civil infrastructure, heavy industrial and building projects across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria leveraging global best practices, as well as giving serious attention to the impact of projects in communities they work and on the environment by keeping their operations environmentally friendly.
As a progressive partner in the delivery of the SDGs in Nigeria, the Group has carried out major construction of schools, primary healthcare centres, stadia, amongst other structures in different parts of the country. In this regard, Okunola affirmed that “For us, the SDGs have become central to our sustainability operations. We have made SDG 9, 11 and 17 central to our sustainability strategy by integrating circular economy principles into all our activities, as well as helping create smart cities by using smart technologies to help cut carbon, increase resilience and improve quality of life.”
Thus, dedicated to implementing global best practices in business and humanitarianism, TILT accomplishments are visible through its unflinching commitments to developments development initiatives and active membership in the SDGs Private Sector Advisory Group. They have implemented numerous philanthropic activities in underserved rural and displaced communities in Nigeria and Benin Republic with a view to improving healthcare promoting quality education and female empowerment and enhancing financial inclusion, amongst other issues.
So far, no fewer than 5,000 out of school children have been provided with scholarships up to tertiary level, more than 700 youths have been offered SME grants and over 1500 low-income women uplifted from the threshold of poverty through its financial inclusion programme ‘She Saves Nigeria’.
Although TILT Group is propelled by its sweeping global innovative outlook, it is also deeply committed to casting an inner glance at growing and supporting the nation through the promotion of local content. Okunola declared that “We have proven ourselves as an indigenous company to reckon with by pioneering what is being done in the western world here in Nigeria: using home-grown talents and locally sourced materials.
Within the TILT Group, we have a marine division that offers total solutions, from concept design to construction for new builds. We recently delivered Ballistic Security Patrol Boats to the Nigerian Ports Authorities, and currently we are building a 500tonne self-propelled fuel barge and 500tonne self-propelled water barge for the Nigerian Navy. The boats will be the first ever class-certified fuel barge to be built in Nigeria with 100% local content – locally produced materials, personnel and financing.”
Meanwhile, before establishing TILT Group, Habeeb Okunola held various management positions in market development and project management in leading companies in the United Kingdom and Nigeria. He is a businessman of international repute, whose experience in conceiving business transactions has given him access to Presidents, Prime Ministers and leaders of international organisations.
Inspired by some of the world’s reputable philosophers who believe that the world is guided by insight and reason, Okunola has selflessly submitted yourself to the pursuit of the greatest good for the greatest number. He is an accomplished author who has written down his thoughts on life and on the business scene in his book titled “The Little Bites of Inspiration” and “The Truly Rich”. In the book “The Truly Rich”, Okunola, through objectivity borne out of experience, articulated the hopes and needs of the poor as well as what the ultra-rich can do to enable the economic self-empowerment of individuals
Over the last decade, his philanthropic gestures implemented through the vehicle of his non-profit organisation (Habeeb Okunola Foundation) have impacted thousands of people, most especially in the area of Financial Inclusion, Education, Health and Prison Reforms. This reflects his favourite saying: “empowerment is the proof of wealth”.
From Abu Dhabi, UAE to the United Kingdom; and From Benin Republic to Singapore, Mr. Okunola’s reputation for his entrepreneurship accomplishments, sustainable grassroots development and commitment to humanitarian causes is not only assured but also recognised. An alumnus of the Harvard Business School and University of Lagos, the serial entrepreneur lives a life devoted to giving and engaging in business activities, and also finds recreation in table tennis and football.
In recognition of his innovative ideas and remarkable achievements, High Chief Habeeb Okunola has received several awards and testaments in and outside Nigeria. He featured in Forbes’ “48 Nigerians Shaping Nigeria Economic Powerhouse, 2020”; Excellence in Business, Leadership & Community Development Award, Abu Dhabi, UAE by Pan African Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development Center, 2019; Award for Humanity & Enterprise 2019, United Kingdom London by Africa Advancement Forum; Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Service to Humanity 2019 by ECOWAS Youth Council; Defender of the Less Privileged Award 2019 by the National Association of Oduduwa Students; Icon of Youth Emancipation 2019 by the Yoruba Youth Council; Agunechemba (Lion that shied his people) Award, 2019 by the Igbo Youth Association; Award for Excellence and Business Innovation 2019 by Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award, among others.
While describing the greatest passion that brought him to the top, Okunola said Collaboration is his driving passion. In his words, “I thrive on the exchange of knowledge, resources, and insights between diverse stakeholders. Progress is a team effort. My focus has been on building strong partnerships that not only propel business growth but also contribute to Nigeria’s economy. Collective efforts create lasting impact.”
“As one of the leading Nigerian multinational conglomerates, with a high level of professionalism and astuteness, our business operations are anchored in Trust, Integrity, Loyalty, and Transparency (TILT). These values shape our professionalism and allow us to navigate complex markets with precision, ensuring sustainable growth and operational excellence.
TILT Group’s success story and growth trajectory, stems from our commitment to innovation and excellence. We adapt swiftly to industry shifts, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and build strong partnerships. Our reputation for timely, efficient project execution has earned us the trust of clients and shareholders, fueling steady growth and positioning us as an industry leader. Apart from Integrity, our brand thrives on adaptability. We cater to both public and private sectors, providing critical infrastructure solutions across construction, energy, and real estate. Our projects not only create jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s economic resilience, helping the nation afloat in a dynamic landscape”, he added.
Concerning what would he considered as the toughest decision in his career journey, the award-winning business mogul submitted that “Navigating Nigeria’s rising inflation and operational costs has been one of the toughest decisions. We had to make hard choices to balance quality with sustainability, optimizing resources while innovating to keep standards high. The lesson? Agility is key. You must adapt quickly and plan proactively to succeed in uncertain times. As a key practitioner and stakeholder in the Nigerian private sector, my advice is tha government should focus on improving infrastructure, simplifying regulations, boosting local production, attracting investments, and strengthening financial systems. These actions can fast- track economic development and wealth creation for Nigeria.”

Olamilekan Adelana Repositioning Courier, Logistics Services Across The Globe

Dr. Olamilekan Adelana, Managing Director/CEO Zenith Carex International Limited, is not only a visionary leader, but also a shrewd businessman, upping the ante in the courier and logistics service sector.
Seeing the shortcoming in the delivery and logistics sector of the economy, the insightful investor moved to fill the gap, providing services that are next to none in the country.
This aspiration followed with fervent determination to achieve his goals led to the birth to Zenith Carex International Limited, a courier and logistics service company, incorporated in November 1, 2002 in Lagos.
With hard word, dedication to service and promptness delivery, the company that started small with a few staff has grown to have over 75 branches across Nigeria. It also has adequate visibility and branches in over 193 countries in the world, including African nations.
With the inventiveness of Adelana, the company has introduced different offerings to its portfolio. Some of these offerings include courier/logistics, clearing and freight forwarding, haulage /transportation, warehousing and distribution.
Others are, third party logistics, cold chain delivery service, ship agent/brokerage services, air and sea clearing services, among others.
Born on May 5,1974 in Lagos State, Adelan has many cognate years of experience in logistics and transportation, which he brought to bear in his leading to make Zenith Carex International one of the topmost companies in the sector. Owing to this, the company is daily carving a niche for itself and playing pivotal roles in social wellbeing of different countries it has registered its presence, aside contributing to raise revenue.
Having stayed in business for over 23 years, Zenith Carex International Limited is assiduously working to be a one-stop shop of indigenous logistics service provider with international affiliations.
In line with its operational ethos, Zenith Carex has cut a clear path for itself in the provision of third-party logistics services, ensuring the swift distribution of various commodities, including nationwide cold chain delivery. Its e-commerce department assists in the delivery of goods from pick-up to final destination (door-to-door). Its warehousing facility offers an A-class storage space suitable for cold chain and pharmaceutical products, as well as general goods. The company offers expert handling of cold chain products, with a controlled temperature monitoring system.
The Zenith Carex haulage model is efficient, swift and seamless. The company is a licensed shipping agent and handles both ocean freight and sea clearing services. Its highly effective courier service boasts branches nationwide, providing air express, inter/intra-state delivery and ground freight services. The company’s many recommendations from notable clients are a testament to its efforts and performance in the industry.
Priding itself of its huge staff, proficient in the handling of all nature of goods, the company is taking corporate social responsibility to a new height. It is not only impacting human and communities, but has also gone ahead to impact federal agencies including Courier and Logistics Regulatory Department (CLRD), Lagos.
Ever free to network and share knowledge, Adelana has presented paper in different fora on freight and sea clearing services, among others. He is also a member of consultative committee (CC) of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) under the United Nations.
Posed to strengthen international trade in the country, Zenith Carex Limited International in 2022 partnered Welcome2Africa to host the first edition of Nigeria Seaports Investment Forum (NSIF2022). The forum served as an avenue to address seaport issues and improve imports and export in Nigeria.
Adelana’s leadership and expertise have earned him different recognition and awards from diverse agencies and institutions within and outside the country.
For his stick to standard and keeping to international practices in his companies, the Governing Council of Ethics and Compliance Officers Association (ECOA) gave him an award.
In line with his ingenuity and innovation, Maverick Business Academy, London, also awarded the business head with a Doctor of Business Administration in Business and Strategic Management award.

Dr. Elvis Abuyere

Elvis Abuyere On A Mission To Empower Next Generation Entrepreneurs

Dr. Elvis Abuyere, the General Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer GMD/CEO of Skyewise Group, is not only an insightful and innovative leader, but also a goal oriented person. Determined to pull himself out of the shackles of poverty, the Lagos state indigene left his promising bank job to tread the windy road of self employment.
Establishing his company, Skyewise, in 2015, he earnestly worked to grow it from a small firm to a conglomerate whose tentacles run across credit management, real estate, automobiles, logistics, tour packaging, contract financing, among others.
Explaining how the company has gained so much leverage within 10 years, Dr. Abuyere disclosed that resilience, clear vision and strong commitment to delivering excellence are their watchword.
According to him, Skyewise focuses on offering the best service, which has solidified its reputation in service delivery. Not resting on its company’s achievements, Skyewise headman revealed that his staff look forward to doing more, providing a near-perfect solution in all situations.
Highlighting how he has been able to weather the stormy and remained relevant in all the sectors, he said: “Doing business has been both challenging and rewarding. At Skyewise, we acknowledge that challenges are inherent in business. However, by staying true to our core values, we have consistently overcome challenges and emerged stronger. We have also been able maintained sustainability by adhering to our principles. We only invest in ventures we thoroughly understand, while being cautious not to be swayed by fleeting opportunities. Our investments are secured with proper collateral and we prioritise having more assets than liabilities. We are also transparent with our clients and all these principles have helped to sustain our success.”
Apart from a PHD in banking and business management from ESCAE University and an executive certificate from IESE Business University in Spain, Abuyere is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Leaders and Governance, USA.
With the memories of the Ikorodu slum in Lagos, where he grew up always fresh in his mind, the business magnate remains dogged in his pursuit of success and to inspire young people to be enterprising in life.
His determination to pull down any hindrance stopping anyone from having a better life that led to the formation of Skyewise Empowerment and Advancement Foundation (SEAF), a not-for-profit organisation, to groom and mentor young people to be self-reliant and contribute to the development of the country and by extension Africa. The foundation, which conducts monthly, quarterly and yearly entrepreneurship training, has since its formation empowered over 1000 youths in Abuja and across the country.
On his motivation to touch lives wherever he goes, Abuyere said: “It is because of my passion for humanity and giving back to society that have inspired me to set up Skyewise and SEAF. I believe the future of Africa lies in entrepreneurship and I am committed to using my resources, ideas and talents to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
Advising young entrepreneurs, the innovative CEO enjoined them to believe in themselves and also to set clear and attainable goals, stressing that anybody just coming into business must focus on value and not just on profits. According to him, value sustains both the business and the brand.
Other nuggets he mentioned was, business owners should reinvest their profits to make more money, to be passionate, ignore naysayers and to view challenges as opportunities to advance.
Highlighting some of the challenges in the investment space to include the dearth of social amenities, difficulty in finding people who align with an organisation’s vision, lack of employable skills, high cost of energy for production and regulatory tariffs, he stressed that any focus and vision driven investor can overcome all and pursue his ambition.
For his industry and service to humanity many organisations have honoured him with different awards, including the 2021 Excellence in Business Management award (Africa Value Awards); SME CEO of the Year 2021; Best Investment and Automobile Brand of the Year 2022, among many others.

Chief Kenneth Ejiofor Ifekudu (OFR)

Diamond Leeds Group: Blazing A Trail In Construction Industry

Diamond Leeds Group, a company that is into engineering, real estate development, consultancy and general supplies, is blazing a trail in construction industry. No thanks to the efforts of Chief Kenneth Ejiofor Ifekudu (OFR), who is the chairman and chief executive officer of the company.

Born April 6, 1979, the revered businessman, who hails from Eziora Ozubulu, Ekwusigo
Council of Anambra State had his formal education at the Patrick Okolo Primary School, Odoakpu, Onitsha, between 1985 and 1990, where he bagged his First School Leaving Certificate. He later went to Our Lady Secondary School (1990 to 1996), where he obtained his West African Examination Certificate, and the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi (1997-1999), where he received a national diploma in business administration. Progressively, he went ahead to obtain his Bachelor of Science degree from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (2000- 2003), and then a Master’s in Business Administration (Management) from the Enugu State University Business School (2009- 2010).

He started his career in the banking sector with the defunct Bank PHB, now Keystone Bank, and he was there between 2005 and 2010.

As a banker, he was the Head, Public Sector, a position which saw him significantly increase the customer base of the bank and correspondingly, the income generation of the bank through his rigorous customer satisfaction based policies and other policies aimed at projecting the bank’s products and services to the public.

He left the sector in 2010, having garnered a great deal of experience, and went ahead to set up his own company- Diamond Leeds Limited, in 2011.

With his wealth of knowledge in business, human relations, corporate affairs, real estate dealings, and many more fields of interest, Ifekudu has been able to build Diamond Leeds Group into a formidable brand, making the organisation a force to be reckoned with in all walks of business endeavours.

The company provides a wide range of comprehensive solutions to address the specific needs of its clients. These solutions encompass various aspects such as general contracts, consultancy, procurement and supply chain management.

Since its establishment, the company has shown strong commitment to providing customers with the highest level of service in the building and construction markets. With its vast experience, the company has constructed both high-rise and low-rise residential buildings, commercial buildings and also institutional buildings.

“Building and maintaining relationships with our customers is at the heart of our business and we have a planning and management style that is consultative and systematic,” Ifekudu said.

He added: “We believe in a proactive approach to all aspects of our business, but in particular to quality, safety and delivery. By getting this right, we give our customers coincidence and peace of mind during the process of planning, design and construction. Our area of expertise includes but not limited to construction, building technology, civil and structural engineering, and consultancy services ancillary to thereto.”

The company is committed to providing the best possible construction expertise and services to ensure cost effective and successful projects. It works closely with clients to accurately interpret their dreams/visions in drawings and bring them to the desired reality through construction solutions to meet their needs.

“Our services are tailored to suit the local market conditions, ensuring that our clients receive relevant and practical advice that can be seamlessly implemented,” he said.

With a vision to be a leading international construction and engineering company through esteemed workforce, providing great service, and reaching its results, it hopes to deliver high-quality, cost-effective projects on schedule by employing and supporting motivated, flexible, and focused teams.

According to Ifekudu, “we value the importance of our relationships and will continue to remain fair and true in our dealings with all clients, vendors, and partners. Our clients count on our dependability, our drive, and our integrity. We take great pride in our accomplishments and build on them every day.”

He said, “we believe in maintaining the highest standard of professionalism, honesty, integrity, creativity, positive attitude, accountability and delivery that meets and surpasses expectations while offering prompt and lasting solutions that stand the test of time. As we operate in a highly competitive environment, we conduct our businesses with a high degree of professionalism, thereby, maintaining our reputation and integrity.”

The chief executive of Diamond Leeds Group said they operate from a place of professionalism. “The quality of how we show up to exceed standards, not only to produce greater efficiencies in our work but also greater participation with our community.”

The company’s team of professionals is fountain of new ideas, fueling better products, services, and processes. The company creates an enabling environment, where the members of staff are allowed a level-playing ground where individual potentials are harnessed while working toward a common goal. “We maintain an optimistic outlook by turning challenges into opportunities. We set high performance standard and hold ourselves accountable for the quality of services/work rendered both to our clients and other stakeholders.”

Ifekudu, aside from being a successful business mogul, is a great philanthropist who has constantly expended his resources to making sure that the poor, less-privileged and indigent persons in the society are catered for to the best of his human abilities. These sheer acts of philanthropy of his have earned him various awards of recognitions from various civil society groups, but more importantly from his home community in Ozubulu and Nnewi, where he was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Agbalanze Onyekachukwu n’Ozubulu 2018 and Ifechukwu Nnewi on December 28, 2023. He was awarded a National honour of ‘Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on May 25, 2023, by the Former President Muhammadu Buhari. Most recently he was recognized by the Sun Newspaper as the Sun Business Man of the Year 2023.

Olayinka Braimoh

Hall 7 Real Estate: Shaping The Future Of Nigerian Real Estate

Hall 7 Real Estate is one of the top real estate companies in Nigeria. It began operations in 2013, offering quality services to its large customer base from different parts of the world. In less than a decade, the company has developed over 1.5 million square foot of property.
Hall 7 is a success story that wouldn’t have been possible without the contribution of its customers and dedicated employees who have shared in the incredible journey thus far.
The company is excellence driven, and puts its clients’ needs at the centre of research, innovation and development. The company is, in fact, an expert in building client’s dream.
Known for delivering exceptional value, Hall 7 Real Estate has continued to expand its footprint both locally and globally, providing high-quality solutions to a diverse clientele.
Hall 7 architectural designs and landscapes stand out, bringing elegance and sophistication to the Nigerian real estate market. These features not only enhance the aesthetic value of their property but also position Abuja as a global hub for cutting-edge architecture.
This commitment to excellence has helped boost the local economy, with each project designed to attract attention both domestically and internationally. The company is focused on curating intentional communities where every detail matters.
Since commencing operations in 2013, the company has established a reputation for meeting the needs of its customers through the delivery of excellent services. The real estate industry is dynamic and ever-changing; consequently, it is consistently innovating and creating diversified real estate developments to ensure that clients’ goals are attained.
Some of the company’s remarkable projects include Trente, Grey Residence, Vostra Park and more. Trente is a luxury development located in the prestigious Guzape Hills, one of Abuja’s most sought-after areas. This project features 30 exclusive units of grand 5-bedroom duplexes and stunning 4-bedroom triplexes.
With nearly all units sold, Trente offers an exquisite living experience defined by modern finishes, spacious interiors, and superior design.
Grey Residence, located in the easily accessible Idu-Karmo district, offers 4-bedroom duplex terraces perfect for starter homes.
With only 16 units left, this bijou development provides residents with comfort and convenience, right on the main road. Vostra Park, along the Airport Road, is a unique resort and residential development. Investors have the flexibility to choose their land size, starting from 200 square meters, and develop according to Hall 7’s masterful designs. Featuring sunflower cluster residences, theme parks, and resort-like amenities, Vostra Park is set to redefine luxury living in Nigeria.
Yona in Life Camp is another of Hall 7’s premier developments, offering modern homes in a well-planned community that emphasizes convenience and lifestyle.
Bridge Apartments in Mbora are thoughtfully designed for individuals seeking luxurious living with easy access to city amenities. This project combines elegant design with functionality, ensuring comfort and practicality.
At the heart of the firm’s operations are its values of honesty, integrity, and commitment to quality.
These principles guide every project, ensuring that clients receive more than just exceptional property — they also benefit from the company’s complimentary investment advisory services. By helping clients make informed decisions, Hall 7 ensures that investments in their projects are both sustainable and profitable.
Hall 7’s achievements have been widely recognised. Only three years after it started operations, in 2016, the company won the Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award as the Real Estate Developer of the Year, and in 2022 and 2024, it was named the Most Innovative Real Estate Company at the Africa International Housing Show. These awards highlight Hall 7’s dedication to excellence and innovation.

The face behind the company’s rising profile is Olayinka Braimoh. He established the company to bridge the gap between investors and innovative housing solutions. Under his leadership, Hall 7 has embodied a philosophy known as the ‘Hall 7 Way’, which simply means: Excellence or nothing else.
Braimoh’s open leadership style fosters a culture of accessibility and collaboration, where the contributions of every team member are valued. He strongly advocates for continuous improvement, ensuring that each Hall 7 project meets the needs of potential investors in Abuja and across the globe. Braimoh’s ability to ask the right questions and nurture this culture in his team has driven the company’s creative solutions, as evidenced by the uniqueness of their projects. His visionary leadership is transforming the Nigerian real estate landscape.
“The real estate sector is one of the most dynamic in the world, and the need to innovate and modify is paramount with Hall 7 Real Estate Limited. This is a vision that has driven us to strive further to provide our esteemed customers with optimum value that is second to none,” said the chief executive.
He added, “one of our key focus areas across the market has always been the innovation of contemporary designs that provides our clients with the best user experience available. To achieve this goal, we continually create diversified real estate developments that deliver value to stakeholders.”
He continued, “at Hall 7 Real Estate Limited, corporate social responsibility is at the centre of all we do. It is important to us that our corporate social responsibility edges have a positive impact on our employees, stakeholders and the general public. We focus on fulfilling this responsibility as much as we focus on our business procedures and performances.”
According to him, the company is dedicated to providing its clients with the most reliable products and services in the real estate industry, tailored to meet the diverse needs and aimed at fostering a long term business relationship.
“We like to think that investing in a Hall7 home is the beginning of a family legacy. We are poised to extend our reach to other parts of the country and beyond.”
He said: “From the selection of development partners to the handover of keys, we endeavour to keep our promise by making sure every detail is flawless. Our culture of excellence propelled us to go beyond the delivery of quality projects to offering investment advisory services which ensures sustainable return on investment.”

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