Like any other nation of the world that is faced with challenges on the Ease of Doing Business, the Nigerian business environment has often been described as tough, given the realities of insecurity, multiple taxation, and infrastructural deficits which include but are not limited to poor electricity and bad roads, as well as the slow rate of economic growth occasioned by fluctuating oil price and government policies.

Despite all these, reports have shown appreciable growth recorded by some organizations in Nigeria as evident in the acceptance of their products and services.

These successes, no doubt, have been achieved through the efforts of some thorough-bred and purpose-driven Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) who have defied the odds to lead their various organizations to outstanding heights. Meet some of them in this series as they share their turning points and the secrets of their success.

By Abiodun Awotoye, Emmanuel Akinola, Charles Gerard, Ikechukwu Agada, Nnamdi Ojiego and Kennedy Mbele

Premier Oiwoh: Leading NIBSS to New Heights in Digital Payment Infrastructure

Premier Oiwoh provides rare leadership at the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS) to drive innovation and excellence in the financial industry. With over three decades of multi-functional and international experience in the banking industry, Oiwoh has established himself as a seasoned professional with a strong educational background and a proven track record of success. His expertise cuts across business process assurance and re-engineering, e-banking business, business process automation, information security management, digital solutions, project management, cost optimization, and business development.

This broad range of expertise has enabled Oiwoh to drive NIBSS’s strategic growth and milestones, positioning the company as a leading provider of innovative financial services in Nigeria. Prior to his appointment as the CEO of NIBSS, Oiwoh served in various capacities ranging from head of operations, business manager, and director of operations at the International office in Francophone Africa, Director/Head of operations and IT, and head, business development, Northern Nigeria.

This experience has equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead NIBSS in its mission to provide efficient services for growth and value delivery. Under Oiwoh’s leadership, NIBSS has implemented modern, world-class infrastructure for handling inter-bank payments, removing potential bottlenecks associated with inter-bank funds transfer and settlement. The company has also achieved several milestones, including the implementation of the NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) system, the launch of the National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) system, the expansion of POS terminal services, and the introduction of mobile payment services. NIBSS’s key services are designed to facilitate financial transactions and promote financial inclusion. These services include the NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) system, National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) system, Automated Clearing System (ACS), Point of Sale (POS) Terminal Services, and Mobile Payment Services. The NIP system, for example, enables instant transfer of funds between banks, while the NEFT system enables the transfer of funds between banks. The ACS system facilitates the clearing of cheques and other payment instruments, and the POS terminal services enable merchants to accept card payments.

The mobile payment services, on the other hand, enable individuals to make payments using their mobile phones. Oiwoh’s expertise in operations and technology has been instrumental in driving NIBSS’s strategic growth and milestones. He has represented the company at various industry events, including the Singapore FinTech Festival, and has demonstrated his commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in the banking industry. As a holder of a Bachelor’s degree and an MBA, Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, an alumnus of Lagos Business School and several prestigious Nigerian and International Executive Business Schools, Oiwoh is well-equipped to lead NIBSS in its efforts to elevate the level of efficiency in funds transfer services and promote financial inclusion in Nigeria.

This recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership and contributions to the Nigerian financial sector. His dedication to innovation, excellence, and financial inclusion has made a significant impact on the industry, and his continued leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of financial services in Nigeria. Oiwoh’s exceptional leadership and vision have positioned NIBSS as a leading provider of innovative financial services in Nigeria, and as NIBSS continues to play a critical role in promoting financial inclusion and enhancing the efficiency of financial transactions in Nigeria, Oiwoh’s leadership will be instrumental in driving the company’s growth and success.

The Future

The future of financial services in Nigeria is bright, with companies like NIBSS leading the way in innovation and excellence. As the financial industry continues to evolve, it is clear that technology will play a critical role in shaping the future of financial services. With the rise of fintech and digital payments, companies like NIBSS are well-positioned to drive growth and innovation in the industry. However, there are also challenges that must be addressed in order to ensure the continued growth and success of the financial industry in Nigeria. These challenges include the need for greater financial inclusion, the importance of cybersecurity, and the need for regulatory frameworks that support innovation and growth. Despite these challenges, the future of financial services in Nigeria is promising. With leaders like Premier Oiwoh at the helm, companies like NIBSS are well-equipped to drive innovation and excellence in the industry. As the financial industry continues to evolve, it is clear that NIBSS will play a critical role in shaping the future of financial services in Nigeria.

Inside our game-changer projects, by Olayinka Braimoh, CEO, Hall 7 Real Estate

Olayinka Braimoh is a visionary leader and entrepreneur who has made a significant impact in the Nigerian real estate industry. As the founder and CEO of Hall 7 Real Estate, he has established a company that is dedicated to bridging the gap between investors and innovative housing solutions. Under his leadership, Hall 7 Real Estate has embodied a philosophy known as the ‘Hall 7 Way,’ which is centred on excellence and a commitment to delivering high-quality projects that meet the needs of potential investors.

His open leadership style has fostered a culture of accessibility and collaboration, where every team member’s contributions are valued and encouraged. A strong advocate for continuous improvement, Braimoh ensures that each Hall 7 project is designed and developed with the needs of investors in mind. His ability to ask the right questions and nurture a culture of innovation within his team has driven the company’s creative solutions, as evident in the uniqueness of its projects. Under Braimoh’s leadership, Hall 7 Real Estate has received numerous awards and recognition for its innovative projects and commitment to excellence.

Some of the company’s notable achievements include: Best Real Estate Company in Nigeria (2022), Best Property Development Company in Nigeria (2020), Best Real Estate Investment Company in Nigeria (2019) to mention a few. On his recognition for distinction, Braimoh shares an insight into the company’s approach to innovation and market leadership, its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, and vision for the future of Nigeria real estate industry amongst other things. Excerpts:

Commitment to Excellence

With over a decade of existence, Hall 7’s commitment to delivering exceptional value has enabled the company to expand its footprint both locally and globally, providing high-quality real estate solutions to a diverse clientele. The company’s innovative approach to design and market leadership has set it apart from its competitors, making it a leader in the Nigerian real estate market.

Innovative Design, Market Leadership

Hall 7’s architectural designs and landscapes are renowned for their elegance and sophistication, enhancing the aesthetic value of their properties and positioning Abuja as a global hub for cutting-edge architecture. The company’s projects have significantly contributed to beautifying the city of Abuja and increasing its appeal as a tourist destination. Hall 7’s commitment to excellence has helped boost the local economy, with each project designed to attract attention both domestically and internationally. The company’s focus on innovation and market leadership has enabled it to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving real estate industry.

Core Values

At the heart of Hall 7’s operations are the values of honesty, integrity, and commitment to quality. These principles guide every project, ensuring that clients receive more than just exceptional properties – 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. The company’s client-centered approach has earned it a reputation as a trusted and reliable partner in the Nigerian real estate market.

The Next Big Thing for Hall 7

Hall 7’s next major project is Gudu Mall, a large-scale commercial development designed to redefine shopping and lifestyle experiences in Abuja. The mall will feature up to 800 shopping units, studio apartments, and 1-bedroom apartments, creating a vibrant mixed-use space. Gudu Mall will also feature a range of amenities, including a dancing fountain, a kids’ arcade, a cinema, and diverse activities designed to provide an unforgettable experience for every visitor. The project is expected to be a game-changer for Abuja’s retail and entertainment landscape.

Other Exclusive Developments

In addition to Gudu Mall, Hall 7 has several other exclusive developments in the pipeline, including Trente, Grey Residence, Vostra Park, and more. Trente is a luxury development located in the prestigious Guzape Hills, featuring 30 exclusive units of grand 5-bedroom duplexes and stunning 4-bedroom triplexes. Grey Residence, located in the easily accessible Idu-Karmo district, offers 4-bedroom duplex terraces perfect for starter homes. Vostra Park, along the Airport Road, is a unique resort and residential development that offers investors the flexibility to choose their land size and develop according to Hall 7’s masterful designs.

Yona in Life Camp is another of Hall 7’s exclusive 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. Projects such as Soyayya Residence and Pod by Hall 7 also offer investors the opportunity to secure plots to build masterpieces at a considerable pace right in Abuja, in burgeoning neighborhoods projected to grow in value significantly. With its commitment to innovation, excellence, and client satisfaction, Hall 7 Real Estate is poised to continue leading the way in Nigeria’s property market.

We make rich landlords through cash flow projects – Nwakanma Akorvueze, CEO, Velox Real Estate Limited

· Firm set to launch ‘Nigeria’s first-ever over-water holiday bungalow’

With a focus on client satisfaction and a mission to create wealth for its clients through its cash flow real estate projects, Velox Real Estate Limited has established itself as a unique brand in the industry. From property development to construction and design, real estate investment and advisory, interior design, and project management, the company offers a range of services that cater for the needs of its clients. The team is led by a distinguished real estate developer, seasoned professional and visionary entrepreneur, Mr. Nwakanma Akorvueze, a man who is also a renowned figure in the Nigerian real estate industry and celebrated for his innovative approach, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication to transforming the sector.

As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Velox Real Estate and Investment Limited, Akorvueze has established himself as a trailblazer in making cash-flow real estate accessible and profitable for a diverse range of investors. Under his leadership, the company has built a strong portfolio, currently managing 11 estates and serving over 5,000 satisfied clients.

He has mentored over a thousand realtors through training programs focused on real estate sales and consultancy. His knowledge and guidance have empowered many Nigerians, both locally and in the Diaspora, to acquire and develop properties across the country. In this interview, the Velox Real Estate Limited boss shares valuable insights on the strategies that have driven the company’s success, the challenges faced in the Nigerian business environment and the lessons learned from navigating these challenges. We also delve into his personal journey, exploring the turning points that have shaped his career and the ambitious goals that Velox Real Estate Limited has set for the future.

A Commitment to Excellence

For Velox Real Estate Limited, client satisfaction is paramount. The company’s focus on feedback and its commitment to introducing products to the market only when there is a hungry market for them have been key to its success. We do not introduce any product to the market until there’s a hungry market for it, and we can only achieve that by paying attention to what the market is saying, and that is feedback,” the CEO explained.

A Unique Brand

Velox Real Estate Limited’s mission and culture are what set it apart from other companies in the industry. The company prides itself on being a cash flow real estate brand, with a focus on creating wealth for its clients through its projects. “We stand tall in the market because we make rich landlords through our cash flow projects,” the CEO said. “Most of our projects come with a blend of hospitality, tourism, and agriculture, which in turn makes our projects money spinners for our clients, partners, and stakeholders.”

Range of Services

Velox Real Estate Limited offers a range of services, including property development, construction and design, real estate investment and advisory, interior design, and project management. The company’s expertise in these areas has enabled it to deliver high-quality projects that meet the needs of its clients.

Navigating the Challenges

The Nigerian business landscape is known for its challenges, and the real estate industry is no exception. One of the key challenges faced by Velox Real Estate Limited is inflation, which has risen to over 30% this year. “Inflation has really impacted negatively on project delivery, as developers and contractors now have to improvise to be able to deliver and maintain top standards,” the CEO explained.

To stay afloat, Velox Real Estate Limited has had to be creative. The company pays attention to its site and service projects, which helps to cushion the effect of inflation. It also engages in bulk buying or building materials, which enables it to manage the impact of inflation on the cost of building materials.

Lessons Learned

The CEO of Velox Real Estate Limited has learned several valuable lessons throughout their career. One of the most important is the importance of hard work and perseverance. “It takes hard work to get to the top, it takes even harder work to remain at the top and even reach for the stars,” the CEO said. Another important lesson is the importance of taking calculated risks. The CEO’s decision to leave his father’s house in 2018 to begin his entrepreneurial journey was a tough one, but it ultimately paid off. “Do not be afraid, your dots will connect,” the CEO advised.

Turning Point

The CEO’s decision to begin a career in real estate was a turning point in his life. Although he started the firm as a side hustle while looking for a paid job, it ultimately became the foundation of their entrepreneurial journey.

The Future

Velox Real Estate Limited has big plans for the future. The company is set to launch Nigeria’s first-ever overwater holiday bungalow in Abuja in 2025, as well as a residential resort estate in Rivers State. It is also developing a premium short-stay apartment in Port Harcourt and a landmark apart-hotel project, a 15-floor building in Port Harcourt. In addition, the company’s Farm Estate project will go mainstream in the coming year. As Velox Real Estate Limited continues to push the boundaries of innovation and excellence in the Nigerian real estate industry, it is clear that the company is a shining star that will continue to shine bright for years to come.

Oladimeji Peters, First Central Credit Bureau CEO: Revolutionizing Credit Reporting with a Holistic Approach

Oladimeji Peters is a name synonymous with excellence in Nigeria’s credit bureau industry. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited, he has been instrumental in positioning the company as a vital pillar for the financial industry in Nigeria to achieve stability. With over 18 years of working experience in business development and analytics, both within and outside Nigeria, Peters has established himself as a leader of thought in the industry. His academic credentials are equally impressive, with a degree in Economics and an MBA from Durham University, England.

Peters is a professional and associate member of various institutions, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Microsoft Corporation, and Chartered Institute of Administration and Fraud Examiners (CIA), amongst others. His expertise has been sought after by reputable newspapers, and he has written several columns on topics related to the credit bureau industry. A seasoned public speaker, Peters has featured at numerous events, both locally and internationally.

His contributions to the industry have been recognized, and he has been the Chairman of the Credit Bureau Association of Nigeria (CBAN) on several occasions. Peters’ outstanding leadership and contributions to the industry have earned him several awards, including Most Responsive Credit Bureau CEO of the Year at the West African Innovation Awards, 2023, Most Customers Focused Credit Bureau Agency of the Year at the West African Innovation Awards, 2023, Africa’s Most Reliable Credit Reporting Agency of the Year 2023 at the African Brand Leadership Merit Awards 2023, and Africa’s Best Credit Bureau Services Brand of the Year 2023 at the African Fintech Brands Innovation Awards.

Independent

Under his leadership, FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited has cemented its position as Nigeria’s first and only independent credit bureau. His vision and expertise have been instrumental in driving the company’s success, and his contributions to the industry will undoubtedly have a lasting impact. Talking about the strategy adopted in improving the company’s portfolio, the quintessential Managing Director noted that in a bid to reduce non-performing loans and defaults, FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited has adopted a unique approach to credit reporting, focusing on identifying vulnerabilities in clients’ positioning and helping them improve the quality of their service delivery.

According to him, this proactive strategy has yielded impressive results, with a significant decrease in non-performing loans and defaults. “By taking a holistic view of our clients’ businesses, we are able to provide them with tailored solutions that address their specific needs and challenges,” the CEO explained.

Oladimeji’s approach to leadership is centered on the principle of “think and work holistically,” which involves considering each situation in the context of the entire business rather than in isolation. This approach has been instrumental in shaping his career and has enabled the company to stay ahead of the curve in the competitive credit reporting industry. However, the CEO acknowledged that making tough decisions is an inevitable part of the job. “The toughest decision is often striding forward in the face of likely failure and uncertainty,” he stressed. “At such times, anxiety levels are high, and emotions run high, but as a leader, you need to remain the voice of balance, foresight, and direction.” While he was reluctant to share personal details about his turning point in life, he was enthusiastic about the company’s future plans.

“We are excited about the potential of Artificial Intelligence to transform the credit reporting and scoring process,” he revealed. “By leveraging AI, we believe we can provide even more accurate and insightful information to our clients, helping them to make better decisions and reduce risk.” As FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited continues to innovate and push the boundaries of credit reporting, it is clear that the company is poised for even greater success in the future. With its holistic approach and commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited is set to remain a leader in the credit reporting industry.

We innovate to create cyber security tools – Peter Ejiofor, CEO, Ethnos Cyber Limited

Peter Ejiofor stands out as a prominent expert and leader of thought. As the Founder and CEO of Ethnos Cyber Limited, a leading firm dedicated to delivering advanced information security services across Africa, Ejiofor has established himself as a driving force in the industry. With over 15 years of experience, he has guided Ethnos Cyber to develop strategic solutions that create lasting value for clients. His deep expertise in the cybersecurity field has been enhanced through partnerships with top global information security vendors, providing him with a thorough understanding of customer needs, business processes, and industry standards.

A well-respected voice in African cybersecurity discussions, the CEO has been instrumental in shaping industry best practices and providing actionable insights that benefit both public and private sector organizations. His credentials include certifications as a Cyber Defense Expert, ISO/IEC27001 Senior Auditor, Senior Penetration Tester, Certified PECB Trainer, and Senior Cyber Security Manager. Ejiofor’s commitment to the industry extends beyond his work at Ethnos Cyber.

He is an active member of the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria, the Information Security Association of Africa, and a Fellow of the Institute of Information Management of Africa. Additionally, he serves as Chairman of Endo Survivors International Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a social impact.

Custom-built solutions

Under the CEO’s leadership, Ethnos Cyber Limited has developed two groundbreaking, custom-built cybersecurity solutions, Aquila and Castellum, that have made a significant impact on ICT and digital transformation. Aquila, an advanced mobile application security platform, detects vulnerabilities and defends against a wide range of cyber threats. Castellum, a security awareness training platform, educates and empowers organizations to strengthen their defenses, an innovations and services which have not only raised the bar for cybersecurity standards but also contributed to Nigeria’s broader digital transformation efforts.

Expansion

On the strategy adopted for expansion, the dynamic cybersecurity expert, pointed out that Ethnos Cyber’s growth strategy is deeply rooted in innovation, collaboration, and understanding client needs. “We’ve forged partnerships with leading global cybersecurity vendors, which has given us access to cutting-edge technologies and solutions”, he said. “Our in-house innovations, such as Aquila, a mobile application security platform, and Castellum, our security awareness training tool, have helped us address specific market gaps.

“Ethnos Cyber’s unique blend of local expertise and global best practices has set it apart from other players in the industry. “We don’t just provide off-the-shelf solutions; instead, we innovate to create tools that address the specific cybersecurity challenges faced by organizations in Africa.

“Our emphasis on customer-centricity, compliance, and continuous education has been instrumental in our success.” The company’s comprehensive range of services includes security assessments, cyber defense solutions, training and awareness programs, and consulting on governance and compliance. “These offerings have been instrumental in securing the digital infrastructures of major financial institutions and other organizations in Nigeria,” the CEO said. Despite the challenges posed by the Nigerian business environment, Ethnos Cyber has continued to thrive. “Limited awareness of cybersecurity threats, rapidly changing regulations, and resource constraints are persistent issues,” he acknowledged. “However, we’ve addressed these by focusing on education and advocacy through tools like Castellum, which trains organizations to understand and combat risks.”

Lessons

The alumnus of Lagos Business School and a member of the Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria reflected on the important lessons that have helped shape his career, emphasizing the power of adaptability and continuous learning. “The cybersecurity field is ever-evolving, and staying relevant requires keeping up with new technologies and threats,” he said. “Additionally, I’ve realized the importance of building meaningful relationships—with clients, team members, and industry peers.”

Future

Looking to the future, Ethnos Cyber is focused on expanding its innovative and research capabilities. “We will work to enhance and deepen the adoption of our Aquila and Castellum platforms to meet new challenges in the cybersecurity landscape,” the Ethnos boss said. “Additionally, we’re exploring deeper partnerships with other African countries aimed at expanding our footprint across Africa and beyond.” With its commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and continuous education, Ethnos Cyber Limited is poised to remain a leader in the cybersecurity industry. The CEO’s achievements’ is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and innovative thinking.

We empower businesses to unlock new opportunities – Hansel Ndu Okeke, Co-founder/CEO, Weevil Company

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, businesses require innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. Weevil Company, a leading technology consulting firm, has been at the forefront of delivering excellence and providing outstanding data solutions. With a portfolio that spans multiple industries, Weevil Company has established itself as a trusted partner for organizations seeking resilience, efficiency, and growth. Led by an accomplished go-getter whose exemplary life of integrity and hard work is worthy of emulation, Hansel Ndu Okeke, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Weevil Company is a dynamic, innovative and performance–driven entrepreneur with disruptive ideas and managerial competence. Here is also a leader whose professional engagements have provided innovative solutions to complex business challenges in the tech space. On his recognition as one of the Vanguard 50 CEOs of Distinction in Nigeria, the Weevil Company boss shares his insight on innovations, Nigeria business environment and the firm’s future, amongst other issues. Excerpts:

A Strategy Rooted in Innovation

Weevil Company’s approach to portfolio expansion is multifaceted, with a strong emphasis on innovation, strategic partnerships, and a customer-centric approach. By continuously investing in cutting-edge technologies and up-skilling its team, the company ensures that it delivers world-class solutions tailored to the unique challenges of each market it operates in. Collaboration with governments, international organizations, and private sector players has been a cornerstone of Weevil Company’s growth strategy.

A Unique Brand

The company’s unique ability to solve complex business challenges through technology while helping organizations extract tangible value from their data is a key differentiator. Weevil Company’s expertise in IT security ensures that its clients’ operations are safeguarded against emerging threats, enabling them to innovate confidently. By transforming raw data into actionable insights, the company empowers businesses to optimize performance, enhance decision-making, and unlock new growth opportunities.

Navigating the Nigerian Business Environment

Operating in the Nigerian business environment comes with its unique set of challenges, including infrastructural deficits, regulatory complexities, and economic volatility. However, Weevil Company has navigated these challenges by maintaining agility in its operations and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders. Leveraging technology to mitigate operational inefficiencies has been crucial, as has the company’s ability to adapt quickly and proactively address regulatory changes.

Lessons

As CEO of Weevil Company, one critical lesson learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Building and managing a company in a dynamic environment requires staying focused on long-term goals while being flexible enough to adjust strategies as circumstances evolve. Fostering a strong team culture, surrounding oneself with skilled and motivated individuals who share the company’s vision is equally important. Building trust and maintaining transparency with stakeholders is non-negotiable.

Turning Point

My turning point in life was founding Weevil Company right after undergraduate studies and later pursuing a Master’s degree in Strategic Entrepreneurship and Innovation at King’s College London. This period not only sharpened my entrepreneurial mindset but also provided the knowledge and networks that have been instrumental in Weevil’s growth.

Secret of Success

The secret behind Weevil Company’s success is a blend of hard work, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to creating value. Maintaining curiosity and a dedication to continuous learning have also been pivotal to the company’s growth. Equally important is having a strong support system, including from the company’s Co-founder, Germain Ndu Okeke, who has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and steering the company’s shared vision toward success.

Future

As Weevil Company looks to the future, its focus is on expanding its footprint across Africa and the Middle East, delivering innovative solutions in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The company is also keen on forging deeper partnerships with governments and international organizations to drive socio-economic development through technology. With a vision to empower businesses and communities with tools that enable sustainable growth, Weevil Company is poised for continued success in the years to come.

We prioritize start-ups with scalable solutions – Wale Salami, Founder, Midlothian Angel Network

Wale Salami is a renowned American angel investor, venture capitalist, U.S. Army veteran, and tech professional with developmental vision who has demonstrated the ability to lead teams of diverse professionals to achieve higher standards as evident in how he has positioned Midlothian Angel Network as the fastest-growing angel network in North America and one of the top active angel networks in Africa.

A pragmatic Nigerian whose competence is contributing to the advancement of angel networks in Africa and beyond, he served with the Air Defense Artillery Brigade of the United States Army, was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and was on a tour of duty to the Middle East as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. He is currently with one of the top 4 tech companies in America (one of Fortune 10), leading cloud adoption strategies in the South-East, AMER region. Wale holds a certificate in Private Equity & Venture Capital from Universitä Bocconi; a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Lagos State University, and an Executive MBA from the University of Texas, Arlington. He is a member of HBS Alumni Angels Association (HBSAAA), the Stanford Angels Club, and also a chartered member of the Angel Capital Association (ACA), a network of over 14,000+ active professional angels.

In this interview, Salami takes us through the Midlothian Angel Network successes, challenges, projections and other issues. Excerpts:

As a company that has been at the forefront of providing funds, mentorship, and delivering excellence through the provision of resources to help start-ups grow, what strategies have you adopted in expanding your portfolio over the years?

At Midlothian Angel Network, we have adopted a dual-market strategy that capitalizes on opportunities in both North America and Africa. Our portfolio expansion is driven by rigorous due diligence, a focus on technology-enabled solutions, and fostering partnerships with global institutions such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC). We prioritize identifying start-ups with scalable solutions, strong founding teams, and significant potential for social and economic impact. Additionally, we offer post-investment support, pairing portfolio companies with industry-specific mentors to drive operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

What makes your organization a unique brand?

Midlothian Angel Network stands out as a transcontinental investment network bridging the gap between North America and Africa. We are now reputed as the fastest-growing angel network in North America and one of the top seven most active angel networks in Africa. The vastness and diversity of our over 200-member strong angel investor base further distinguish us, allowing us to provide a wide range of expertise, networks, and funding opportunities. Our brand thrives on resilience, diversity, and a community-driven ethos, which are further reinforced by our commitment to creating generational wealth for founders and investors alike. With a combined valuation of over $150 billion among our portfolio companies, our network is synonymous with trust, innovation, and unparalleled impact.

Midlothian Angel Network has continued to raise the bar of excellence through the numerous services it renders. Can you highlight some of these services?

We provide a comprehensive suite of services that include Early-Stage Funding: Offering equity and convertible notes to promising start- ups. Mentorship Programs: Connecting entrepreneurs with seasoned business leaders across industries. Business Development Resources: Providing market insights, scaling strategies, and operational best practices. Networking Opportunities: Hosting exclusive events and forums for start-ups to engage with global investors and partners. Training and Capacity Building: Organizing workshops on financial literacy, governance, and leadership for founders.

Given the peculiarities of the Nigerian business environment, what are the challenges faced in your sector, and how have you been able to overcome those challenges as an organization?

The Nigerian business environment presents challenges such as inconsistent regulatory policies, limited access to infrastructure, and fluctuating foreign exchange rates. However, we have successfully navigated these hurdles by adopting approaches such as: Collaborative Partnerships: Leveraging relationships with local governments, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders to mitigate policy risks. Infrastructure Investment: Supporting companies that address infrastructure deficits, especially in fintech, logistics, and energy. Forex Management: Diversifying our funding base across multiple currencies to hedge against exchange rate volatility. Resilience Training: Empowering start-ups with strategies to adapt to macroeconomic shocks and regulatory changes.

What are the important lessons that have helped shape your career as a CEO?

• Vision and Persistence: The ability to articulate a clear vision and remain persistent in the face of adversity is critical.

–People First: Building strong teams and nurturing relationships have been key to Midllothian’s growth.

–Adaptability: Navigating two distinct markets has taught me the importance of cultural intelligence and flexibility.

–Continuous Learning: Staying informed about global trends and incorporating innovative practices has been a cornerstone of our success.

–Giving Back: I have learned that success is amplified when you create value for others, whether through mentorship or philanthropy.

What are the next big things for Midlothian Angel Network?

The future of Midlothian Angel Network is defined by expansion and innovation:

• Launch of a Venture Fund: We are in the advanced stages of establishing a venture capital fund to provide larger ticket sizes to high-growth start-ups.
• Pan-African and Global Initiatives: We are exploring setting up operations in

China, Israel, Rwanda and South Africa to expand our footprint and support cross- border innovation.

–Tech-Driven Solutions: Introducing AI-powered tools to streamline deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio management.

–Women-Led Ventures: Launching a dedicated initiative to invest in and mentor women-led start-ups in underserved markets.

-Global Investor Network: Strengthening our partnerships with international angel networks to create more co-investment opportunities.

These strategic initiatives ensure that Midlo Angels continues to drive impact while cementing its position as a global leader in angel investing.

We deliver quality every time – Arc. Arthur Nworah Oguegbulu, FNIA, CEO, Central Contractors Limited

Notwithstanding the remarkable feat he has recorded in his personal and professional callings, Arc. Arthur Nworah Oguegbulu, FNIA, Chief Executive Officer, Central Contactors Limited, is an embodiment of humility and resourcefulness. He has indeed distinguished himself as an exceptional leader whose leadership style is proactive and all-inclusive, having raised the bar in the delivery of quality and bespoke architectural and engineering services to individuals and organizations within and outside the country.

Described in many quarters as a visionary and thoroughbred leader with passion for excellence, Arthur started his educational journey from Idaw River Primary School and Abakpa Nike Primary School, Enugu State where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. He later proceeded to Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha, Anambra State for his secondary education. Not resting on his oars, Arthur proceeded to the prestigious University of Jos where he bagged a first degree and Master of Science in Architecture.

He started his professional journey from Tunji Kusa and Partners in Kwara State, where he took part in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and, due to his outstanding performance during the period, the Firm recommended him for a state award and retained him after his NYSC. He later joined Architectural and Building Consultants in Abuja where he further honed his skills and became a Chartered Architect in 2006.

Before he established Central Contactors Limited, Arc. Arthur also had a stint with Fromeb Associates, Landbase Associates, and Skeems Limited, with expertise spanning construction, consultancy, contract administration, project management and real estate development. His over 23 years career in the building industry has established a benchmark in the architectural sector, and his significant contributions have played a pivotal role in the continuous success of Central Contactors Limited, as exemplified by the multitude of accolades received over the past few years.

These awards and recognitions acknowledge the company’s outstanding turnkey solutions and empowering both individuals and organizations. Talking about Central Contactors Limited, the highly innovative and dynamic CEO disclosed that the company was established in 2009 and it has consistently delivered exceptional construction services, earning a reputation of a trusted partner in the Nigeria building industry. “Central Contractors Limited was born when we realised that, apart from the major players in the construction industry that have the political means and international connections, some Nigerian contractors believe in cutting corners”, Arthur said in an interview with Sunday Vanguard.

“Having being a Consultant Architect for many years, I witnessed first-hand and saw that they sometimes don’t see the larger picture and the need to leverage on sustainable solutions that have been proved overtime worldwide.” “We are thus driven by the passion to build a wholly Nigerian construction company from the scratch poised to deliver excellence through quality and sustainable solutions compared to anywhere in the world. “We deliver quality every time knowing that it is a guarantee that our projects are safe and healthy for human habitation and that a satisfied customer could lead to referrals.

“In that vein, as an architect in the construction industry and in my role as the TEAM leader, I make sure that the leadership role placed on the architect in the building industry is never underplayed. “We collaborate with professionals in the sector to deliver sustainable projects, thus making sure that each sub-team is headed by a qualified and certified professional: Structural engineer, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, quantity surveyor etc.

We don’t also underemphasize the importance of fair pricing as a strategy in expanding our portfolio, knowing that people want to get value for their money and good ROI on any project.” The CEO, whose inspiring journey serves as an example to aspiring individuals seeking to make an impact in the construction world, also has extensive knowledge, entrepreneurial spirit, and experience which have positioned him as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving architectural landscape.

According to him, Central Contractors Limited has been delivering building and engineering construction services for government, corporate organizations and individuals for over a decade, and they are partnering with sister company, MACRO ACRES LIMITED, to deliver quality and sustainability in the real estate sector through joint ventures with a mantra ‘VALUE ADDED HOMES.’ Commenting on the challenges faced in the sector, Arthur said the sector is confronted with numerous challenges, but inflation is top on the list, referencing the volatile nature of basic building materials prices. “Within the completion period of a project, you could experience several hikes in prices, which definitely has ripple effect on the project’s business plan in terms of budget and completion period”, he said.

“I would, therefore, think it is high time government looked at the call for the establishment of Bank of Construction just like we have Bank of Industry and Agriculture.” While speaking on the factor that has helped to shape him as a CEO, the Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Architects and Institute of Management Consultants posited that Central Contractors Limited entering into partnership with Macro Acres Limited has been a major boost as it allowed his companies to take charge of delivering the kind and quality of projects that are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also sustainable. He added that his Firm always sticks to the best practices that promote Indoor Air Quality, Waste Reduction, Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Water Conservation, and Sustainable Materials.

On his choice of career, Arthur expressed delight at choosing to be an architect, referring to the choice as the turning point in life. “Becoming an architect and getting fully registered as a corporate member on the Nigerian Institute of Architects takes the medal”, he said proudly. “The profession has allowed me to see life in all the beautiful colours and to strive for excellence in every single opportunity.”

The CEO noted that Central Contractors Limited has come to stay, saying, despite all odds, the Firm believes in the dream of a better Nigeria. “We believe that private enterprises hold one of the keys to economic transformation through a burgeoning real estate sector and indeed every other sector in Nigeria” he concluded. He maintained that in partnering Macro Acres Limited among others, Central Contractors Limited would-be creating clusters of sustainable communities in and around Abuja and the country at large.

“We are looking at ways to develop ingenious quality mass housing schemes”, Arthur stated. “As a member of REDAN (Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria), we believe that mass housing/houses in the suburbs and those in CBD should be delivered on the same quality except in material specifications and finishes.”

Akintola Oladejo, CEO, Prestigious Homes Limited: Constantly exploring new opportunities

Akintola Oladejo’s passion for creating functional spaces that inspire and uplift has been the driving force behind his success as the CEO of Prestigious Homes Limited (PHL).

With a career spanning multiple industries, including engineering, banking, and oil and gas, Oladejo has brought a unique blend of expertise and passion to his role in transforming PHL into a leading player in Nigeria’s real estate sector. Growing up, Oladejo had always been fascinated by real estate, and his professional experience only deepened his passion for the industry. Despite the challenges he faced, his extensive experience and fervour for construction smoothed the path as he transitioned from a part-time enthusiast to a full-time developer.

His academic credentials, including his time at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, have provided a solid foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures. He has honed his skills through various executive education programs, enabling him to navigate complex business environments with ease. As CEO of PHL, Oladejo has masterminded some of Lagos’ most breathtaking properties, showcasing his ability to merge style, sophistication, and functionality.

His passion for real estate, combined with his professional experience, has driven him to pursue excellence in every project he undertakes.

His interactions with renowned Dubai developers have significantly influenced his approach to real estate development. By integrating the quality and excellence observed in Dubai, he ensures that PHL’s projects meet international standards. This approach has earned him widespread recognition, and he is being recognized as one of the CEOs whose vision and enterprise have contributed to shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape in recent years. One of Oladejo’s innovative approaches to real estate development is his introduction of flexible payment plans, allowing buyers to invest in alignment with project milestones.

This strategy has made luxury living more accessible to Nigerians, stimulating the real estate market. PHL boasts an impressive portfolio of luxurious villas, modern apartments, and cutting-edge office spaces. Oladejo’s commitment to delivering projects that reflect the highest standards of architectural elegance, superior craftsmanship, and sustainability has earned him widespread recognition. As Oladejo looks to the future, he remains committed to driving growth and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector through PHL’s innovative real estate solutions. With the global real estate market poised for significant growth, Oladejo is confident that Nigeria will follow suit, with the market projected to reach $3 trillion by 2029.

The outstanding CEO understands and emphasizes the importance of the investments of the Nigerian Diasporas, who are increasingly investing in Lagos’ real estate market, attracted by cultural connections and lucrative investment opportunities. Oladejo is constantly exploring new opportunities and innovative solutions to meet the needs of his clients, ensuring that PHL remains the ideal choice for home development. For Oladejo, every project is unique, and he is committed to delivering value that exceeds his clients’ expectations. With his experienced team, he is dedicated to sitting with clients, hearing them out, understanding them, and bringing their imagination to life. As the CEO of PHL, Oladejo is indeed an invaluable partner in realizing real estate dreams.

Our vision is to be the best real estate company – Arc (Dr.) Barka Umaru Mshelia, Founder/CEO, Mshel Homes Limited

Arc (Dr.) Barka Umaru Mshelia, Founder/CEO, Mshel Homes Limited, is a man of many parts: an entrepreneur, certified life coach and architect. Mshelia is a high caliber, competent, resourceful, dedicated, and integrity conscious manager with excellent proven track record. He is also a dynamic administrator whose disruptive ideas, managerial competence and professional engagements have provided innovative solutions to complex business challenges particularly in Nigeria’s real estate sector. Mshelia, who holds a degree from Modibbo University of Technology Yola, he’s also a certified project manager and a fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants.

His impressive educational background is further complemented by a honorary degree in Business Management from the Universite La HEGJ, Cotonou, Benin Republic, and various certifications from institutions like the Metropolitan School of Business and Management, United Kingdom, and the International Business Management Institute Berlin, Germany.

Under his leadership, Mshel Homes Limited has made significant progress, with a unique business model that prioritizes client satisfaction and stress-free service delivery. The company’s mission is built around providing innovative solutions that fit clients’ needs, with a focus on honesty, integrity, and impeccable customer service. Mshelia’s vision for Mshel Homes Limited is to be a leading real estate company in Nigeria, recognized for its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. He’s driven by a passion to redefine luxury and provide clients with brand-new experiences, as seen in the company’s innovative projects and smart homes. In this exclusive interview, he shares his insights on the company’s success, his personal journey and the future of Mshel Homes Limited. Excerpts:

A Clear and Compelling Vision

Mshel Homes Limited has established itself as a leader in the real estate market by leveraging a clear and compelling vision. Our approach involves developing and implementing a well-defined structure that guides all our processes, ensuring excellence in every interaction. We go beyond traditional housing solutions, aiming to redefine the concept of real estate value. For us, it’s not just about selling land or building homes; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for our clients.

What Sets Mshel Homes Apart

It is the company’s commitment to rejecting the status quo and embracing a distinct personality that reflects its vision, mission, core values, and value proposition. Our vision is to be the most exceptional real estate company, empowering our clients’ dreams of owning homes and a piece of the world. This guiding principle ensures we embark on a transformative journey with every client, discovering innovative ways to empower their aspirations.

Weathering the Storm

Despite the challenges posed by the Nigerian business environment, Mshel Homes Limited has thrived by staying adaptable and focused. We continuously refine our strategies, maintain transparent communication with stakeholders, and uphold a commitment to excellence that sustains trust even during challenging times.

A Personal Journey

My personal journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. As a child, I wasn’t considered particularly well-behaved or academically gifted, but a simple compliment from my Geography teacher changed everything. She praised my handwriting, saying, “You have a fine handwriting”. That simple recognition ignited a spark in me, motivating me to improve academically. From that moment, I began to apply myself more diligently, turning around my performance and setting the foundation for the journey I’m on today.

Lessons

Throughout my career, I have learned valuable lessons that have helped shape my approach to leadership. Integrity is key. Employees trust leaders who align their organization’s vision with the personal growth and aspirations of their team members. Continuous growth, knowledge, adaptability, and relationship building have also been essential to our success.

Secret of Success

It’s a combination of factors. The grace of God is the ultimate foundation of my success. Beyond that, I possess a clear vision and an insatiable hunger for growth. This clarity and determination fuel the energy and focus needed to pursue my goals relentlessly.

Future

We are committed to expanding the company’s philanthropic efforts through the Mshel Foundation. We aim to give back to society in impactful ways, raising and empowering entrepreneurs locally and internationally, educating and feeding the less privileged, and creating sustainable opportunities for those in need. Through these initiatives, we are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals

Our first revolutionary strategy was re-imagining passenger comfort – Enahoro Okhae, MD/CEO, GIG Mobility (GIGM)

Established in 1998 as God is Good Motors in Benin City, Edo State, GIG Mobility (GIGM) is Nigeria’s leading technology-driven transportation company, redefining the mobility experience across West Africa. With a focus on innovation, exceptional customer service, and an unwavering commitment to safety, GIGM is transforming the travel experience for modern-day commuters. Due to its culture of excellence and outstanding services, GIG Mobility has, over the years, received accolades and recognitions from reputable organizations, all thanks to the man at the helms of affairs who is a pragmatic and result-oriented MD/CEO with impressive administrative skills, Enahoro Okhae. In this Interview with Sunday Vanguard on his recognition as one of the 50 CEOs of Distinction in Nigeria, the GIG Mobility boss speaks on the company’s journey, challenges, innovation and future projection, among other things. Excerpts:

Expansion Journey

GIG Mobility (GIGM) began its journey as God is Good Motors, a humble yet ambitious transportation company. The revolution we introduced into the industry, which prompted our rebranding to GIG Mobility, was driven by a bold vision to seamlessly integrate service excellence and technology into Nigeria’s road transportation sector. This transformation was spearheaded by then-CEO of God is Good Motors, Mr. Chidi Ajaere, who is now the Chairman/CEO of Greatman Legend, the parent company of GIGM. Our first revolutionary strategy was re-imagining passenger comfort. We reduced the number of seats per row in our buses from four to three.

While this initially seemed economically counterintuitive – sacrificing one seat’s revenue per row, it fundamentally enhanced guest comfort. The result! A remarkable influx of passengers who recognized and valued the premium experience we offered. To complement this, we pioneered the integration of technology-driven convenience. For the first time in Nigeria, we enabled guests to purchase tickets from the comfort of their homes and introduced pickup points closer to residential areas, eliminating the need for terminal visits.

This was a game-changer for the industry and set a new standard for customer-centricity. Our commitment to innovation extends far beyond ticketing. At the heart of our operations is a comprehensive ERP system that drives every function of the organization: From inventory and maintenance to finance, driver management, and beyond.

This technology ensures operational excellence and efficiency, and it is continuously upgraded to stay ahead of the curve, reflecting our commitment to innovation and industry leadership. We also revolutionized the guest experience by transforming waiting areas into modern, airport-style terminals. These spaces provide a clean, comfortable environment for guests to relax while awaiting their trips. With features like pre-selected seating and well-maintained buses, we elevated the standards of road transportation. The contrast between our approach and the traditional roadside waiting areas underscores the magnitude of this shift.

At GIGM, our people are our greatest asset. Empowering them has always been central to our growth strategy. Our approach to recruitment and talent development is far from conventional for the transportation sector. We continually invest in building-capacity, fostering innovation, and equipping our employees with the tools they need to excel. Our journey is a testament to the power of bold ideas, strategic execution, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction.

Challenges

The challenges we face today are substantial, particularly during this period of significant shifts in government strategies. However, as an agile organization, we are constantly adapting to the ever-changing business environment, while exploring ways to navigate these complexities with focus customer experience and satisfaction. Infrastructure remains a critical concern.

The deteriorating state of our roads is taking a toll on our buses, leading to increased wear and tear, more frequent maintenance, and escalating costs. This reality underscores the heightened importance of robust financial management as we work to optimize resources without compromising service quality. Insecurity poses another significant hurdle: As a national issue, it affects not just businesses but also the safety of commuters across the country.

Beyond strengthening our internal security systems, we are proactively engaging with the government and security agencies to advocate for and implement solutions that ensure safer roads for our operations and the public. Despite these challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering excellence, continuously adapting to overcome obstacles, and ensuring our stakeholders’ trust and confidence.

Lessons

One of the most important lessons that has shaped my career as a CEO is the understanding that “I don’t know everything, I can’t do everything, and I can’t be everywhere at the same time.” Embracing this realization has been transformative for me both as a leader and as an individual. This perspective has taught me to value learning from my team and recognize the immense talent that each individual brings to the table. Delegation isn’t just about assigning tasks—it’s about fostering growth, building capacity, and enabling innovation. Additionally, this approach has compelled me to build trust into the system, even when working with individuals who may need to earn that trust over time. Ultimately, this lesson has helped me develop a leadership style rooted in humility, collaboration, and empowerment, which are essential for sustainable success.

Toughest decision

Top on the list is agreeing to become the CEO of GIGM and, with this, I have learnt that “You can always do more than you think you can”, “Plans are great but the skill of flexibility is critical” and, lastly, “Your silent imaginations are building pathways to reality, make them louder in your mind.”

Turning point

At the age of 14, I experienced a pivotal moment that forever shaped my view of life and leadership. I was severely punished, not for something I personally did, but for allowing my younger brothers to disobey instructions. I had assumed that since they were the ones who acted against the rules, they alone would face the consequences. Instead, I was held accountable for failing to take charge as the eldest, as the leader in that situation. That day, I learned a profound lesson: Leadership is about responsibility. It’s not just about what you do; it’s about the actions you permit or overlook, especially when you are in a position to guide others. From that moment on, I understood that true leadership requires stepping up, taking ownership, and ensuring those you lead are aligned with shared goals and values. It was a defining experience, and I’ve carried that lesson with me ever since.

Future Projections

As part of our continued commitment to advancing mobility and its associated services, we are expanding into new frontiers that redefine the way people move and connect. Recently, we launched our airline ticketing platform which was seamlessly integrated into our app, enabling users to book airline tickets with ease. If you’ve explored our latest app update, you’ll see we are gearing up to introduce water transportation services and expanding our bus hire offering to include premium vehicle hire. These initiatives are driven by our vision of providing seamless, efficient, and flexible mobility solutions. At GIG Mobility, it’s all about empowering people to move freely and do things freely, wherever their journeys take them.

Why we’re most sought-after PR brand – Raheem Olabode, Managing Partner, CMC Connect LLP

CMC Connect LLP is a public relations and strategic communication firm. Recently, it transited from a Limited Liability Company to a Limited Liability Partnership, which saw it emerge as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic, diversified, and capacity-infused PR and strategic communication company. In this interview, the CMC Connect Managing Partner, Mr. Raheem Olabode, reveals why the company is the most sought-after PR brand across the West Coast of Africa. Excerpts:

As a public relations and strategic communication firm that has been at the forefront of delivering extraordinary services, what strategies have you adopted in expanding your portfolio over the years?

Our strategy, which has really expanded our business over the years, revolves around five pillars. One is creating a very strong business unit, recruiting the right candidates, making an environment highly competitive, and then having the right working tools, and the culture of creativity for excellence. So, that’s our business strategy and if you further break it down, you realize that the human resources strategy which ensures that we get the right talent and recruit the best in the industry, has translated to a very high-quality service delivery to our clients. Again, in terms of business positioning, we’re so intentional and deliberate in positioning CMC to the right target be it in the corporate world and also in the public sector.

What makes CMC Connect a unique brand?

Well, for us, we are pacesetters. We are thought leaders in the industry. CMC is now 32 years, so, the uniqueness of our brand starts from our innovation, how innovative we’ve been in the last 32 years. We have come up with so many activities, and big media initiatives, proving strong leadership in the media in a way that showcases that thought leadership in the industry.

And also, we are well-focused. Looking at the vision, we are the most sought-after public relations brand across the West Coast of Africa. We’re very visionary in our thinking, very visionary in our operations and in what we do and what we are thinking. If you check our track record over the years, it’s proven. We work for individuals and brands across sectors, even in political communication. Putting all these together makes us a pacesetter in the industry.

We are leaders in the industry in a way that our operations or our achievements have really contributed to the growth of PR in Nigeria today. Also, we operate as the exclusive affiliate Burson, Cohn & Wolfe (BCW), in Nigeria – the world’s 3rd largest PR agency according to Holmes Report 2019, and looking at the merger that happened in the last six months between BCW and Hill & Knowlton Strategies, the relationship has also make us to be seen more as top leader in the industry.

Lastly, I will say how diverse our portfolio has been. We are in the telcos sector, we are in the FMC sector, we are in the fintech sector, and really, and the bridges that we have built over the last two years and those that we are building today make the CMC brand a very unique one indeed.

You just mentioned some of the sectors you are a key player, so can you highlight some of the services you offer in these sectors?

We, at this point, metamorphosed into not being seen more like a PR organization because we are very strategic. So we say, what we do is a strategic communication which PR happens to be part of. Our first service is what we call strategy advisory because we are deliberate not to be at the end of execution. We have the expertise to be at that strategy point of view to see how we solve problems – looking at the intelligence, come with the strategy and then execution becomes something so seamless for us. So that’s our first service here, meaning that we can come up with a solution and we may execute that solution.

The other service is brand and marketing PR, that is, brand communication for brands and then carrying out their activities, and PR initiatives whereby we get to consumers of their various products. We make them to see and to perceive the brand the way the brand wants to be perceived. Again, we offer crisis communication.

Nobody prays for crisis but at the same time, you must prepare for it. When you are adequately prepared, it makes management of it very, very easy, and simple for you. And then at the end of the day, you audit to know why the crisis to avoid such in the future. Public affairs communication is a major for us. All over the world, the government is a larger spender. So government became a target for us and then we created public affairs, which we are like an intermediary between the governments and the governed.

So there is a need for communication which involves the stakeholder’s engagement, issues management, and even reputation on the part of the government, to see that the communication of government or strategies of government is well delivered to the governed. So in public affairs, we cover both the private sector and corporate organizations who want to talk to the government as a result of policy reformation or other issues. We also offer digital PR. We all know that everything is moving away from traditional towards digital. So we offer digital service and influencer engagement. Lastly, we just came up with what we called the ESG advisory.

We realized that a lot of companies, particularly large companies, invest in what we call social investment, which boils down to giving back to society and everything. An ESG, the economy, social and governance, gives the level of compliance as it is. So we, at CMC Connect deemed it fit to follow our strategy, following our expertise to be part of such in a way that when you are designing your strategy of engaging your environment, we are discharging your strategy in your social initiative. Lastly, we also do events management, product unveiling, and campaigns.

I just mentioned a few, there are other services that we do but critically, by the way we are structured in business, these are the prominent ones that we’ve been offering to brands and those in the public sector.

Given the peculiarities of the Nigerian business environment, what are the challenges faced in your sector and how have you been able to weather the storm as an organization?

It’s an interesting question because we all know the Nigerian operating environment. We have our social economic challenges, even looking at the economic indicators, drivers, the inflation rates, the foreign exchange, fuel has joined and the minimum wage, this came across quotas and the companies have to really strategize to see how they would proffer solution to this. Inflation in the first instance, the price of goods and services has gone up. And we say our business is the business of our clients because it’s only when our clients are happy, that we will be happy; when they create the opportunity, that’s when we service them.

So, these macroeconomic indices have the first challenge in our business, what we call the budget cut in the sense that for somebody who is still struggling to see finance, cost of production, and you are now talking about communication. It’s like I have to produce first before I communicate. So what do they do? They cut budgets.

And that’s our own income. So, budget cost is the first challenge and we are in an era where clients are looking for more value, meaning that you must be at your best, at any point in time. Our business is more technology-driven than human-driven. So, you must make your environment very conducive. We operate diesel, power supply and everything at a huge cost. The other aspect is the talent.

How do we retain our talents? We are in an era where people are looking for more income. Looking at realities out there, people are moving from one firm to another, looking for better offers. But for the industry, in perspective, looking at the practice itself, we have the challenge of data. Data is a big challenge for us. Data references, what we do, how we get data and all in proffering intelligence to our clients. Our business still has the challenge of a low entry barrier; it’s still about anybody who can come in. So, we always say that our business is like the job of the Super Eagles.

Anybody can coach the Super Eagles; it’s about bringing players and putting them on the field. So, regulation is still there because if regulation is strictly enforced, that will bring out the face, even this practice has to be seen more in a better form. So it’s still seen as a down-the-line practice.

The advertising agencies have been able to position well the way you perceive them either by structure or the way they structured their businesses in such a way that what they are doing, you could see that this is business. PR is still being seen as if it’s a passion. We have the issue of whether it’s a PR media or media relations. But I strongly believe that maybe in the next two, three, four, or five years, we will have overcome some of these things based on the promises on the part of the government.

Looking forward, what are the next big things for CMC Connect?

It’s been 32 years and about two years ago, we transited from limited liability by shares to limited liability by partnership. We realized that within the next three, four, or five years, the future of this business is consulting and specialization. So meaning that, you can’t claim, you asked about our services and I said we do this and do that, so it’s like everybody is doing the same thing. So we are looking at, when it’s CMC, you will be able to say in all this, this is what CMC is doing. So specialization is key for us. That is why we moved into the LLP so that partners can come into this business and based on their expertise, we’ll be able to fill some sectors. For example, if we pick an interest in aviation now, we get an aviation expert in the business.

So we desire to be the KPMG of this practice. KPMG is also a consulting firm but when it comes to communications PR, we want to be the KPMG, meaning that we are experts in the various business units of the firm. We are also planning to see that we pay attention to data. So even if data is a problem, we want to do everything possible to become a reference point when it comes to data. So these are some of the things that we are putting in our five-year sustainable growth strategy between now and possibly, 2030. Again, we desire to be in critical sectors of the economy.

We’ve worked for clients, we have worked for businesses, but we want to play very, very big. Government is key and that is why our public relations strategy is to see that some key decisions of policy, legislative policy or anything. We want to be seen as a top leader in this business. Moreover, the sustainability part of our business is such that we move the business beyond the face that you are seeing now.

In CMC, you have Adetola, Yomi, and so on but rather than being seen as a company, we want to be seen as an institution whereby outside us, the firm becomes bigger than individuals who are in the business presently. When you hear Burson and some of these top global PR firms, you could feel that institutionality rather than individuality. So we want to be the reference point for anything about this practice in the next three to five years and the 10 years down the line.

Ajibola Bamidele: The Transformational Leader Empowering Business Excellence

Ajibola Bamidele is a distinguished business growth expert and transformational leader, renowned for his exceptional ability to drive organizational excellence and empower individuals to achieve their professional goals. With a career spanning over two decades, Ajibola has established himself as a mentor to entrepreneurs and business leaders, guiding them towards unprecedented levels of success and profitability.

As the Group Managing Partner of CEED Academy and MD/CEO, Certification Edge, Ajibola has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to businesses and individuals seeking to achieve excellence. His expertise encompasses business scaling and growth, performance optimization, and change management. He has designed and delivered tailored leadership and development interventions that have enabled managers and teams to thrive in competitive markets.

His work has had a profound impact on the lives of over 10,000 professionals, guiding them towards achieving globally recognized certifications in Project Management, Human Resources, Business Analysis, Agile, and Risk Management. His global impact is reflected in his status as a certified expert in multiple disciplines and his founding of The Maverick Leadership Center, an initiative dedicated to human transformation. Ajibola’s outstanding contributions to the field of business growth and leadership development have been recognized through various awards and accolades. He continues to be a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing his expertise and insights with organizations around the world. On his recognition as one of Vanguard 50 CEO’s of Distinctions in Nigeria, the leadership training expert shares valuable insights on the strategies that have driven the company’s success, the importance of agility and innovation, and the lesson learnt from navigating the challenges of Nigeria business environment, amongst others. Excerpts:

What strategies have you adopted in expanding your portfolio over the years?

As a leading training and consulting firm, we prioritize agility and innovation, continuously refining our offerings to meet emerging needs. We are deeply aware that organizations that fail to reinvent risk extinction, much like dinosaurs, so we stay ahead by adapting to change and delivering impactful, cutting-edge solutions

What makes Certification Edge unique?

At Certification Edge, we are customer-centric and driven by delivering true value. We understand that our sustainability depends on how many professionals we can assist in achieving certifications and providing knowledge interventions that address their business needs and position them for career advancement globally.

Can you highlight some of the services render at Certification Edge?

Our services include professional certification training in HR, Project Management, Business Analysis, and Scrum, along with customized corporate learning solutions, leadership development workshops, and targeted knowledge interventions to address specific business needs. We also offer consulting services to help organizations optimize HR practices, enhance workforce performance, and achieve their strategic objectives

What are the challenges faced in your sector and how have you been able to weather the storm as an organization?

The major challenge is helping people understand that growth and knowledge are key to career progression. Without a drive for excellence, no amount of prayer can lead to success. Raising this awareness has kept us consistently relevant, especially in helping individuals see the connection between mental growth and global job opportunities. We’ve ingrained into our mindset the importance of being prepared for the unexpected

What are some of the important lessons that have helped shape your career as a CEO?

As a CEO, the most important lessons that have shaped my career are: never settling for less and constantly reinventing myself and the organization. It’s crucial not to idolize a model just because it worked in the past; what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow, and staying adaptable is key to long-term success

What is the toughest decision that you ever made and the lesson learnt?

The toughest decision I ever made was deciding to never tolerate negative or draining people around me and shutting down a branch that, despite significant investment, was not adding value. The lesson I learned is that maintaining a positive, high-energy environment is crucial for growth, and sometimes difficult decisions are necessary to ensure the long-term success of the organization, even if it involves letting go of something costly

What would you consider your turning point in life?

My turning point in life was when I decided to commit to lifelong learning and made it a priority to continuously pursue as many global certifications as I could. This decision has been instrumental in shaping my career and personal growth, keeping me ahead of industry trends and empowering me to lead with confidence.

What are the next big things for Certification Edge?

The next big thing for Certification Edge is achieving the milestone of certifying over 10,000 professionals in a single year. This ambitious goal will further solidify our position as a leader in professional development and certification, driving growth and opportunities for individuals and organizations globally.

Our ‘City of David’ will integrate agriculture into real estate – Jared John Dawala, Sunset Realtors CEO

Intelligent, hardworking, and dynamic, Jared John Dawala is blessed with the ability to achieve uncommon feats. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sunset Realtors, this versatile and enterprising manager has shown the stuff he is made of in business initiatives and visionary leadership that have positioned his firm as a force to reckon with in the real estate sector space in Nigeria. In this exclusive interview with Sunday Vanguard, the young entrepreneur speaks on the five-year-old outfit. Excerpts:

What strategies have you adopted in expanding your portfolio over the years?

We are focused in what we are doing, implementing our key strategies which include integrity. We make sure that we have good relationship with our clients; we also ensure that we walk the talk; whatever we promise, we deliver. Again, we ensure timeliness in delivery of projects without compromising excellence and quality.

What can you tell us about Sunset Realtors?

Our key vision here is to be partners in the real estate sector. When it comes to investment, we have been able to work with different people, developers and customers one-on-one and ensure we are able to partner and give them good return on their investments. We are also able to select for them good areas that will give them massive return on their investments.

What makes your organisation unique?

We have good customer relationship which we try to maintain at all costs. We don’t joke with our clients when it comes to relationship; this is because we understand that a client is capable of multiplying our sales. Our clients are people that have their circles; they have their peers in same class and may want to invest in our sector. We ensure that if we get a client, we manage him or her well and, from that one, we replicate. So, our major strategy is that we get referrals from our customers because of the way we handle them.

What are your core values?

Our core values are integrity and diversification. We ensure that we are not just focused on one area, we diversify our portfolio. We make investments for clients; give them many options so that they would be able to choose what they like. So, in whatever we do, we put our customers first and ensure that our products and services benefit them maximally. At Sunset Realtors, we don’t just give you a product; we ensure that what you see is what you get.

How do you see Nigeria’s business environment?

Frankly speaking, doing business in Nigeria is quite tough; the economy, the rise in the value of dollars, customer drive, etc are some of the things responsible for its toughness. In our sector, you must be able to provide options when it comes to your products because you have to look at the classes of people you are serving, and ensure that each of the classes is well attended to. We ensure that we have products that can serve every class of the society so that whenever we have a little glitch from either the high class or whatever, the middle class can do well to serve, and when the middle class has a glitch, the high class can do well to serve. That is one of the key things that work for us.

Can you identify some of the challenges on your business and how you have been tackling them?

There are a lot of challenges. One of them, for instance, is dealing with regulatory bodies. If you don’t understand the regulatory bodies to deal with, you find out that you are not working with the right ones and, as such, you end up messing around. Also, in dealing with peers, documentation is a major challenge. People sometimes are not as good as you think they are; some are just there to take funds from you and if you are not careful in checking your documentations and other things needed, you will end up falling into wrong hands. Sometimes, when you go into transactions with people and miss a step, it goes a long way. Therefore, we try our possible best not to miss any step because of the losses such mistakes could bring.

What factors shaped your career as a CEO?

My career as a CEO of an organisation is a bit tough. As a CEO, you must understand how to deal with individuals based on their personalities, character and values. I have been able to understand how to work with people, everybody in a different way. I don’t have a general blueprint of working with individuals. So, when I work with you, I make sure I understand how you operate, your personality, then I try to work with you in a manner that everything I am doing shouldn’t just be a general way of doing things, but also having a particular individual style of addressing issues.

Tough decisions taken and the lessons learnt

When you are on this seat, people see it as you are just like that, but the truth is that on this seat there are some decisions that are so tough to take and, for me, one of them is to fire a staff member. Dismissing a staff member is really tough for me because I am someone that sees possibilities in nothing. I also believe that it’s just a matter of time you would be able to catch up. There are people that won’t change and won’t really get what you want. Such are tough decisions for me but must be made because I am also a staff member of our organisation. At such crossroads, I just look at if the company that is at risk or will I follow my emotions. If the company is at risk, I don’t have any option than to relieve the person of his duty.

Every man has a turning point in his life, when can you describe as a turning point in your life?

About five years back, that was when I came to live in the city. It was quite a challenging situation for me coming into a city without knowing the left or right; but I have been able to put myself together, though it was tough. I had to isolate from friends and a lot of things in order to get focused on what I needed to do. Things were tough because I felt lonely, but what helped me was my relationship with God. With Him, I was able to pass through that season gradually, building up this career and to God be the glory this is where I am now.

Can you share with us some of the next big things for Sunset Realtors?

We have a lot to do. We are expanding our scope of operations. We are also working on having a Media Department which will cover other parts of the sector and create useful contents. We have identified a great challenge in the sector; most people can’t afford the properties we are selling, especially in Abuja. This has been a major concern.

We are therefore developing a scheme for long term payment plans. Subscribing to our Easy Handle Scheme is the option in which we give overdraft. We work with our partners and financial institutions so we can give our consistent clients overdraft.

We are already working on a project that we want to expand and have more houses across the country. We want to integrate agriculture into real estate whereby each house would have a sort of farm that would feed the household. We are working on that and hope to arrive there very soon.

One of the major qualities of a good CEO is the ability to see far. How do you see Sunset Realtors in the next 10 years?

One of our ongoing projects called ‘The City of David’ is going to be massive. That is where we are going to integrate agriculture with real estate. It is a 10 km by 12 km estate. So, in 10 years, we will be solving 30% to 50 % of our housing problems in line with the SDGs global initiatives. We noticed that we keep on attending to the rich who are getting richer every day, but let’s consider the middle class because they are those that if given room, can work.

What can you tell us about Sunset Realtor’s Corporate Social Responsibility?

We do CSR projects. One of them is that we are partnering Amateur Tennis Parliament, ATP, to sponsor youths in tennis tournament. We will pay school fees of winners for a certain period. We are also supporting make-up classes for women and lots more.

This recognition by Vanguard means different things to different people. What does this mean to you?

When my team told me about the recognition, I felt honoured because it meant a lot to me. I didn’t know that people are watching what we are doing. It is therefore a call for more efforts which I must respond to.

Is there any other information that you will like to share with us?

I would like to advise those of us in the real estate sector to know how best to handle peoples’ finances. Whoever comes to invest in your company does so out of trust. It also means that both of you really mean business, so let’s find ways of making our clients believe in what we are doing so that someone won’t feel bad to invest in your sector.

I am saying this because there are many cases of people not being happy with their investments with some companies in the sector. That can affect the integrity of the entire sector and not just such companies. Let’s put away selfish interest and project the interest of our clients. They want to improve their lives and that is why they are investing in what they believe will benefit them.

We are passionate about dream homes – Maxwell David Taye, CEO of Kairos Realty Development Limited

Maxwell David Taye, Chief Executive Officer of Kairos Realty Development Limited, is a highly resourceful, experienced and passionate business leader who has demonstrated his worth of expertise in the real estate and development sector in Nigeria.

Taye is unarguably one of the youngest change agents in the Nigerian real estate with astounding reputation for success. Known for his commitment to helping customers minimize risks and maximize profit through real estate investment, he is also passionate about raising young people for effective leadership through The Drive Leadership Network, an NGO he founded in 2018 and has used over the years to mentor over 9, 000 young people across Nigeria.

Talking about the company, the University of Ilorin alumnus said Kairos Realty Development Limited is a premier real estate development and construction firm committed to bridging the housing deficit in Nigeria by transforming undervalued properties into high-value assets.

According to him, Kairos Realty has redefined real estate through commitment to trust, excellence, and shared prosperity. “Whether you’re searching for your dream home or a prime commercial property, we ensure a smooth, transparent, and rewarding experience from start to finish”, Taye said. “That is why we are proud being more than just a real estate company. We are your partners in success”.

On the strategy for portfolio expansion, the Kairos Realty Development Limited boss disclosed that the company’s growth is driven by four important strategies: Networking, Strategic Location, Problem-Solving Products, Innovation and Partnerships, saying that these and commitment to a gospel shared prosperity have distinguished the firm in the real estate sector. Taye added: “Our brand ensures that every stakeholder, whether Management, staff, sales partner, or client, benefits and grows with us because we prioritise collaboration and mutual success.

We have cultivated a culture of trust and excellence”. A youth advocate working to bring positive change and also contribute to a sustainable world through his organization, Taye highlighted the services rendered by Kairos Realty, saying that its services span real estate development to construction services, infrastructural development and consultancy.

Underscoring the lessons that have impacted him, the CEO noted that every challenge has been a stepping stone because he always learns from mistakes and ensures those experiences guide his future decisions.

Taye also embraces adaptability because real estate sector is ever-changing. Meanwhile, he is a man that does not joke with prioritizing stakeholder satisfaction as growth, according to him, is driven by relationships and trust.

Commenting on the toughest decision he has ever made, the Kairos Realty Development Limited boss disclosed that establishing the firm remained the toughest as it required stepping out of his comfort zone, taking risk and facing uncertainties. But he is glad that he did as the decision taught him resilience, value of vision, and importance of calculated risks in achieving greatness.

He revealed that Kairos Realty, as part of the plan for the future, will extend its reach into untapped regions with high growth potentials, introduce smart homes and green building initiatives that cater to modern-day demands and sustainability, develop platforms that allow more individuals to invest in real estate with flexible entry options, make property ownership accessible to a broader audience, and launch projects that not only provide housing but also build vibrant communities with top-notch amenities.