Saheed Akanmu: Upping the ante in construction, infrastructural development, humanitarian services

Saheed Olatokunbo Akanmu is a Nigerian entrepreneur, architect, and infrastructure development expert. He is also the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ashmark Global Resources Limited, an indigenous engineering and construction Company that is delivering strategic infrastructure and industrial projects across the country.

Apart from this, the creative and dynamic tycoon is equally the brain behind BuildingMarts-NG, a top-tier construction materials and tools procurement firm. He is also a co-founder of Marc and Nita Limited, a strategic business growth consultancy dedicated to empowering organisations with transformative insights.

The indefatigable leader also has a hand in the media, serving as Editor-in-Chief of JustU Magazine for the past three years. His dynamism has, in no small way, made him a Director at Waves Solutions, a leading consulting firm committed to helping business owners scale up.

As Chairman and CEO, he provides strategic leadership for Ashmark Global Resources Limited, overseeing corporate growth, project development, and long-term investment initiatives. Under his direction, the company has expanded into a multidisciplinary engineering and construction organisation engaged in civil works, architectural designs, project management, and energy-related projects. Through the deployment of experienced engineers, architects, and technical specialists, the company has successfully executed complex projects for both public and private sector clients.

Over the years, Akanmu’s professional activities have expanded beyond traditional construction into energy infrastructure and industrial project development, including

involvement in projects across the CNG, LNG, petrol, and diesel value chains. His work reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s physical infrastructure and supporting the country’s transition towards more efficient energy systems.

In addition to his corporate leadership, Akanmu has contributed to enterprise development and knowledge dissemination through editorial and consulting roles, reflecting a broader interest in business growth and professional development. His leadership influence extends across multiple organisations, where he has supported entrepreneurs and institutions in achieving sustainable growth.

The Youth Ambassador’s career is distinguished by a strong belief in indigenous technical competence and the strategic development of local professionals. His philosophy emphasises integrity, innovation, and disciplined project execution, principles that have guided the growth of Ashmark Global Resources Limited and strengthened its reputation for quality service delivery and professional reliability.

Widely respected for his commitment to professional excellence and indigenous capacity development, Akanmu has consistently championed the use of local expertise in delivering high-value engineering projects. This has positioned Ashmark Global Resources Limited as one of the companies developing local skills, boosting employment and a trusted partner in the execution of technically demanding projects, while maintaining strong standards in quality, safety, and project delivery.

Beyond corporate leadership, Akanmu is recognised for promoting enterprise development and job creation through infrastructure investment. His business philosophy lays high premium on integrity, innovation, and sustainable growth, with a strong focus on building long-term value for clients, partners, and communities.

Akanmu’s professional background in architecture and project development has shaped his practical and solutions-driven leadership approach. His experience spans the planning and delivery of large-scale engineering and infrastructure projects, including emerging investments in energy infrastructure aimed at supporting Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner and more efficient energy solutions.

Akanmu has built a reputation as a results-driven business leader committed to advancing Nigeria’s infrastructural growth and industrial development, as well as developing the professionals who would continue to drive the positive change needed in our industries.

For his impact on leadership, industry and the economy, The Guardian Newspapers named him among the Top 100 CEOs in Nigeria in 2025. This is an honour reserved for business leaders who are demonstrating exceptional vision and measurable impact in their respective industries.

Looking ahead, Akanmu remains focused on expanding Ashmark Global Resources Limited into a leading infrastructure and energy development company, with a long-term goal of delivering world-class engineering projects that support Nigeria’s industrial transformation and economic growth.

Today, Saheed Akanmu is widely regarded as part of a new generation of Nigerian infrastructure entrepreneurs whose work bridges technical expertise and corporate leadership. His career represents a model of progressive enterprise development from architectural practice to the leadership of a growing engineering organisation delivering strategic projects across Nigeria.

Despite reaching great heights in the construction sector, Akanmu has continued to pursue opportunities that would strengthen Nigeria’s economic foundation and enhance the capacity of indigenous companies to deliver world-class engineering solutions.

With a first degree in architecture from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, and a master’s in architectural science from Caleb University, Lagos, Akanmu entered the field to put to good use the knowledge he had acquired from the four walls of the university. His technical depth and professional competence have enabled him to contribute to several major national projects, including the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and, of course, multiple energy infrastructure facilities within the CNG, LNG, petrol, and diesel sectors.

Beyond his corporate achievements, the astute businessman is a dedicated humanitarian with a lifelong commitment to service. He has been a proud and active member of the Rotary International family since his university days. He at one time chaired his school’s event, the Club Against HIV and AIDS Programme (AHAP). Today, he has continued to support charitable initiatives, youth empowerment programmes, and community development efforts across the country.

Guided by creativity, excellence, integrity, and service, Akanmu remains firmly committed to building sustainable solutions that strengthen communities, shape industries, and advance Nigeria’s development trajectory.

Recently, he was honoured with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (DHL) and inducted as an Associate Fellow of the British-American Institute (UK) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to construction, entrepreneurship, and national development. He was also recognised as a Youth Advocacy Ambassador for his belief in the Nigerian youth and also empowering them with skills and platforms to hone and grow their technical skills.

Akanmu’s growing recognition is a testament to his enduring impact and the many milestones still ahead. He has received numerous honours and professional fellowships from international institutions. These recognitions reflect the growing national and international acknowledgement of his works in advancing Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure sector.

The honours underscore his exceptional leadership, commitment to excellence, and impactful contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.