Forbes has launched its 2024 ForbesBLK 50 list, a modern reimagining of its 2009 Wealthiest Black Americans ranking, featuring three notable Nigerian entrepreneurs among its distinguished honorees. The new list expands beyond mere wealth metrics to recognize innovation, leadership, and societal influence across various sectors.
Leading the Nigerian contingent is Adebayo Ogunlesi, whose $1.7 billion net worth stems from his role as chairman and co-founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP). His recent achievement includes orchestrating GIP’s landmark $12.5 billion acquisition by BlackRock in 2024. The Harvard-educated lawyer and former Credit Suisse executive has established himself as a transformative figure in global infrastructure investment since founding GIP in 2006.
Tope Awotona, founder and CEO of Calendly, joins the list with a net worth of $1.4 billion. His journey from Lagos to Atlanta culminated in creating a revolutionary scheduling platform now valued at $3 billion. Launched in 2013 after several entrepreneurial attempts, Calendly secured a significant $350 million investment in 2021 and has become a essential tool for millions of users worldwide.
The youngest Nigerian honoree, 32-year-old Wemimo Abbey, represents the next generation of fintech innovation through his company Esusu. The platform, which achieved unicorn status with a $1 billion valuation in 2022, helps renters build credit histories by reporting their rent payments to credit bureaus. Esusu’s services now reach 1.8 million Americans across more than 20,000 properties, exemplifying Abbey’s commitment to financial inclusion.
The ForbesBLK 50 list, operating under the ForbesBLK banner, represents a significant evolution from its 2009 predecessor, which featured icons like Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan, and Magic Johnson. This new iteration celebrates not just wealth accumulation but also the broader impact and influence of Black leaders in shaping global business and society.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
