By Henry Oduah

Businessman Femi Otedola said on Wednesday that the chairman of Globacom Mike Adenuga told him over two decades ago he would be a “great man”

Otedola, chairman of First HoldCo, said in an X post that Adenuga told him so at his mother Lady Doja’s 70th birthday.

The billionaire noted that Adenuga’s words have remained with him, using the memory to celebrate his mentor on his 73rd birthday.

“24 years ago at my Mum’s 70th birthday in Epe, you said I would be a great man. Your wisdom, mentoring and guidance have stayed with me ever since,” Otedola wrote.

“Today, on your 73rd birthday, I celebrate you Otunba Dr. Mike Adenuga, GCON. A true African icon whose vision continues to inspire us all.

“Wishing you good health, strength and many more wins ahead.”

Adenuga was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, on April 29, 1953.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday felicitated Adenuga, describing him as a colossus in the business landscape.

In a congratulatory message, Tinubu said Adenuga’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s foremost entrepreneurs showed vision and belief in the Nigerian enterprise.

Tinubu said the businessman has left “an imprint of excellence” across multiple sectors.

“From telecommunications, real estate, banking, and oil and gas, he has put an imprint of excellence on the Nigerian enterprise,” the president said in a statement.

Tinubu added that Adenuga’s life has served as an inspiration for younger generations.

“I congratulate the Guru, a businessman with the Midas touch, on his birthday today, April 29,” he said.

“Mike’s life is an affirmation of the audacity of hope, belief, and vision. From humble beginnings, he rose to become one of Africa’s finest entrepreneurs.

“His achievements in business are a testament to the immense possibilities of the Nigerian enterprise and an inspiration to the younger generation that, through hard work, innovation, and resilience, they can rise to become standout men and women of their generation.”