A new wave of young Nigerian billionaires is reshaping industries. While seasoned tycoons like Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola remain influential, a younger generation is emerging, each with their unique entrepreneurial ventures.
Meet Nigeria’s Ten Youngest Billionaires:
- Igho Sanomi
Igho Sanomi, a Nigerian business magnate born in 1975, is worth over $1 billion. With interests in oil, power, logistics, and more, he’s a major player in multiple industries. As the founder of Taleveras Group and a key figure at Cosmos Oil AG, Sanomi’s influence is far-reaching.
- Ladi Delano
Ladi Delano, a British-Nigerian entrepreneur, co-founded Moove, a fintech platform revolutionizing mobility in Africa. By offering revenue-based financing to ride-hailing drivers, Moove, in partnership with Uber, is transforming the transportation industry. Delano’s prestigious education from LSE and Oxford has shaped his entrepreneurial journey.
- Sijibomi Ogundele
Sijibomi Ogundele, born on April 8, 1981, is revolutionizing Nigeria’s luxury real estate market. As CEO of Sujimoto Construction, he’s behind iconic projects like Medici and LorenzoBySujimoto, setting new standards for luxury living. His ambitious goal is to elevate Africa’s luxury real estate market.
- Seyi Tinubu
Seyi Tinubu, the son of Nigeria’s former APC leader and now president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has emerged as a significant figure in the Nigerian business and political scenes. He is the CEO of Loatsad Promo Media Ltd, a leading outdoor advertising company. His company enjoys preferential access to advertising spaces in Lagos, significantly boosting its success.
- Linda Ikeji
Linda Ikeji, a prominent Nigerian blogger and entrepreneur, was born on September 19, 1980. Since launching her blog in 2006, she has established it as one of Nigeria’s most popular websites. Additionally, Ikeji has ventured into online radio broadcasting from her media office.
- Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana)
Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, is a renowned Nigerian businessman and entertainer. He began his entrepreneurial journey in 2006 by opening a nightclub in Abuja. Since then, he has built the Cubana Group, a successful conglomerate encompassing clubs, hotels, and a bitters brand. His business acumen has solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential figures.
- Mark Essien
Mark Essien, a Nigerian entrepreneur and software developer, was born on December 18, 1980. He founded Hotels.ng, one of Nigeria’s pioneering online hotel booking platforms. Essien’s company has garnered significant international investment, securing over $1.2 million, positioning it as a major force in Nigeria’s tech industry.
- Jason Njoku
Jason Njoku, a London-born entrepreneur, co-founded and leads iROKOtv, a popular video-on-demand platform specializing in Nigerian movies. After returning to Nigeria, Njoku’s venture has significantly influenced the Nollywood industry.
- Joseph Eze Okafor (Jowi Zaza)
Joseph Eze Okafor, popularly known as Jowi Zaza, is a young billionaire and CEO of Jezco Oil Nigeria Ltd. His family’s deep-rooted presence in the oil and gas industry has contributed significantly to his wealth. He is also a prominent figure in Nigeria’s high society.
- Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, a Nigerian entrepreneur born on March 28, 1991, is a co-founder of Andela and former managing director of Flutterwave. His work focuses on developing Africa’s technological infrastructure. Aboyeji is also a key player in Future Africa, a platform that supports innovative ventures.