Edo Decides

September 19, 2024

Edo 2024 guber: Who is Asue Ighodalo, corporate giant and PDP candidate eyeing top seat?

Asue Ighodalo

By Miftaudeen Raji

As the 2024 Edo State governorship race intensifies, all eyes are on Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate.

With a distinguished career in the corporate sector, Ighodalo brings a wealth of experience and a promise of transformative leadership to the forefront of this political contest.

Vanguard takes a closer look at the life and accomplishments of Asue Ighodalo, a notable Nigerian businessman, lawyer, and philanthropist.

Coming from a family with a rich legacy in academics and professional excellence, Ighodalo’s journey has been significantly shaped by this background, propelling him toward his current political ambitions.

Education

He earned his first degree in Economics from the University of Ibadan and later obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M) from the London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE.

Ighodalo’s journey into the corporate world began in the legal field, working as a lawyer and gaining valuable experience in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. 

He established himself as a distinguished lawyer, specialising in corporate and commercial law with his expertise in this area laying a strong foundation for his future endeavours. 

Ighodalo, along with his partners, founded, Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo, a law firm that has since become one of Nigeria’s leading commercial law practices. Under his leadership, the firm has provided legal services to a diverse clientele base, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government agencies. 

The law firm has come to symbolise excellence in corporate and commercial law, and it continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape of Nigeria.

The entrepreneur

Asue Ighodalo’s entrepreneurial spirit and astute business acumen led him to venture beyond the legal profession. He is involved in various sectors, including finance, energy, real estate, and hospitality, holding diverse business interests that have contributed to his growth as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s corporate world. 

Ighodalo’s influence extends beyond his business ventures, as he has served as the Chairman and Director of several notable companies and organizations, including Sterling Bank, Dangote Flour Mills Plc, and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NEHe).

He has left his indelible mark of contributions to these organisations, making a significant impact on their growth and development.

Ighodalo is not only known for his professional achievements but also for his commitment to philanthropy and community engagement. 

He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. His philanthropic efforts reflect his dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians and contributing to the development of the country.

Ighodalo’s journey from a young lawyer to a prominent figure in Nigeria’s corporate space is a testament to his vision, hard work, and commitment to excellence. His accomplishments in the legal profession, business, and philanthropy have earned him a place of respect and influence in Nigerian society.

Manifesto

Ighodalo continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, serving as a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, talent, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on one’s community and country.

With a clear vision for Edo’s future, Ighodalo aims to tackle pressing issues such as economic development, infrastructure, and education. His strategic approach and proven expertise in corporate governance are seen as critical assets in addressing the state’s challenges. 

However, as the campaign progresses, voters are keenly watching how Ighodalo plans to translate his corporate success into effective public service, making the 2024 gubernatorial race one of the most anticipated political events in Edo State’s recent history.