Femi Otedola Launches Memoir, Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business

Femi Otedola, a prominent business leader and philanthropist in Africa, has today unveiled his highly anticipated memoir, Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business.

This book narrates Otedola’s extraordinary journey from a young boy with entrepreneurial aspirations to achieving billionaire status by the age of 41, while navigating various crises and transforming multiple sectors such as oil and gas, shipping, power, real estate, and finance. It provides a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the resilience, innovation, and strategic reinvention that characterized his ascent, as well as the challenges that tested his resolve.

“There are very few books authored by successful African business leaders that document their journeys and impart lessons for future generations, particularly for the youth,” remarked Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization.

With honesty and precision, Making It Big not only reflects on Otedola’s business achievements but also emphasizes his profound dedication to philanthropy and legacy. He articulates the significance of vision and ambition, the bravery to aspire for greatness, and the capacity to convert setbacks into opportunities for growth. The book delves into how strategic entrepreneurship and discipline allowed him to expand across various industries, how innovation and reinvention turned crises into chances for advancement, and how philanthropy can forge a legacy that transcends mere wealth. At its core, Making It Big serves as a celebration of African identity and a call to motivate the upcoming generation of African innovators.

Otedola’s contributions to education, healthcare, religious organizations, and disaster relief have established him as one of Nigeria’s most esteemed philanthropists, while his roles as Executive Chairman of Geregu Power PLC and Chairman of FirstHoldCo PLC continue to influence the business and financial landscape throughout Africa.