Group Chief Executive Officer of Oando PLC, Wale Tinubu, has applauded the recent investment activities of Nigerian business leaders Femi Otedola and Tony Elumelu, describing their moves as a “roaring start” to 2026 and a demonstration of strategic foresight in Africa’s evolving business landscape.
Reflecting on Otedola’s Geregu exit on his X’s account, Tinubu emphasized the sophistication and timing of the deal. The transaction not only turned Otedola’s stake in the power sector into a landmark divestment but also strengthened his position in banking. According to Tinubu, the hallmark of an exceptional investor lies not only in making strategic investments but also in knowing when to exit. Otedola’s ability to combine foresight, decisiveness, and timing, he noted, is a textbook example of mastery in investment strategy.
“Otedola’s approach highlights the importance of balancing conviction with patience,” Tinubu said. “He recognized the value of positioning, seized the right moment, and executed with precision, qualities that define top-tier investors globally.”
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On the other hand, Tinubu highlighted Tony Elumelu’s deliberate and long-term strategic entry into Seplat as a major shareholder. He described this move as a strong vote of confidence in African capability, governance, and ownership, as well as a belief that the continent’s energy future should increasingly be shaped by those who live, invest, and build locally.
“Elumelu’s decision is about more than financial returns,” Tinubu observed. “It signals faith in local leadership, strengthens institutional governance, and underscores the role of visionary Africans in shaping the continent’s economic future.”
Tinubu’s commentary underscores a broader message for 2026: strategic thinking, patience, and decisive action are key to creating lasting value. By successfully balancing timing, risk, and opportunity, both Otedola and Elumelu exemplify how leaders in Nigeria and Africa can drive growth, influence markets, and inspire confidence among investors.
The CEO noted that such high-profile moves not only shape market dynamics but also set benchmarks for corporate governance, investor discipline, and long-term strategic thinking across sectors. As Nigeria continues to position itself as a hub for African business and investment, Tinubu’s observations reinforce the importance of strategic execution, local empowerment, and measured risk-taking as pillars of sustainable value creation.
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“These are exceptional deals that set the tone not just for the year ahead, but for how real, sustainable value is created in Africa,” Tinubu concluded. “Femi and Tony continue to lead by example, showing that vision combined with execution can shape markets and inspire generations of entrepreneurs.”
The report reflects the growing significance of Nigerian entrepreneurs in driving investment trends, reinforcing the message that thoughtful leadership and disciplined action remain critical in an increasingly complex global and regional economic landscape.
