Senator Otunba Engr. Justus Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng, has been named the Megastar Man of the Decade 2025 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to engineering, governance, and national development spanning over ten years.
The prestigious award was presented at a ceremony held on Friday, October 17, in Abuja, where distinguished Nigerians gathered to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated consistency and focus in their pursuits despite the nation’s challenging socio-economic environment.
Otunba Gbenga Daniel, who currently represents Ogun East Senatorial District, was recognised for his exceptional leadership across multiple sectors, including engineering, governance, legislation, and philanthropy. His engineering company, Kresta Laurel Limited, recently celebrated its 35th anniversary, marking over three decades of pioneering excellence in elevators, power systems, and industrial equipment in Nigeria.
Founded in Lagos, Kresta Laurel became Nigeria’s first ISO 9001 certified lift company under Daniel’s visionary leadership, establishing new standards for quality and excellence in Nigeria’s engineering sector. Before establishing his own firm, he rose to become Deputy Managing Director at H. F. Schroeder (West Africa) Limited, making history as the first African to achieve that position, a revolutionary achievement that paved the way for indigenous professionals in multinational corporations.
His professional credentials are reinforced by his academic qualifications, including an Engineering degree and MBA from the University of Lagos, as well as fellowships in prestigious professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), the Fellowship of the Academy of Engineering (FAEng), and the Institute of Directors. These distinctions underscore his technical expertise and business acumen, positioning him as one of Nigeria’s most respected engineering entrepreneurs.
As Ogun State Governor between 2003 and 2011, Otunba Daniel signed “A Contract with the People” and delivered remarkable achievements that continue to define modern governance in the state. His administration founded Nigeria’s first University of Education, established four ICT Polytechnics, constructed three world-class stadiums, upgraded another to FIFA standards, and rehabilitated over 2,000 kilometres of roads.
Through strategic public-private partnerships, he transformed Ogun State into West Africa’s investment destination of choice, attracting significant business investments that continue to benefit the region. His administration’s focus on infrastructure, education, and economic development created a template for progressive governance that subsequent administrations have built upon.
His Political Leadership Academy (POLA) remains a testament to his commitment to youth development and capacity building, nurturing future leaders by identifying and enhancing the capacities needed for effective leadership in Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
In the Senate, Daniel chairs the Committee on the Navy, where he provides critical oversight and advocacy for Nigeria’s maritime security and naval development. His legislative portfolio demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of national challenges and a commitment to addressing them through well-crafted legislation.
Among his significant legislative achievements, Senator Daniel sponsored the South West Development Commission Establishment Bill, which received Presidential Assent, a landmark achievement that will drive coordinated regional development across the South West geopolitical zone. This commission is expected to address infrastructural deficits, promote economic integration, and enhance the quality of life for millions of citizens in the region.
His legislative agenda extends across critical sectors. He has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous bills addressing healthcare delivery, educational infrastructure, agricultural development, and economic empowerment. Each piece of legislation reflects his deep understanding of grassroots needs and national priorities, drawing from his experience as both a business leader and state governor.
Senator Daniel’s relevance in the political arena stems from his ability to bridge the gap between policy formulation and practical implementation. His legislative interventions are informed by real-world experience, making his contributions particularly valuable in Senate deliberations on technical and developmental matters.
Otunba Daniel’s continued relevance in both professional and political spheres is evident in his multifaceted approach to leadership. As a practising engineer and successful entrepreneur, he brings technical expertise to legislative discussions on infrastructure and industrial development. His 35-year journey with Kresta Laurel demonstrates sustained business success and adaptation to changing market dynamics, cementing his status as a leading figure in Nigeria’s private sector.
Politically, his influence extends beyond legislative duties. As a former governor with proven track record of delivery, his insights on governance, fiscal management, and public-private partnerships are frequently sought by policymakers and development partners. His ability to attract investments and drive economic growth during his governorship remains a reference point for contemporary leaders.
His role in developing future leaders through POLA and his mentorship of young politicians and entrepreneurs further amplify his relevance. By investing in capacity building and knowledge transfer, Senator Daniel ensures that his impact transcends his immediate sphere of influence.
Beyond politics, Senator Daniel’s humanitarian work through Gateway Front Foundation (GFF) has impacted countless lives. He launched a Zero Interest Micro Credit Scheme for petty traders, sponsors free eye care programs benefiting thousands of residents, facilitates borehole construction in underserved communities, renovates schools, and conducts rice value chain training for farmers.
His agricultural interventions, including fertiliser distribution throughout his senatorial district, demonstrate his understanding that sustainable development must include empowering farmers and improving food security. These initiatives reflect a people-centred approach to leadership that prioritises the welfare of ordinary citizens.
The Director General, Strategic Communication and Press Affairs, Nasarawa State, Yakubu Lamai, who represented Governor Abdullahi Sule at the event, delivered the keynote address on the theme “Social Responsibility: Building a Culture of Collective Accountability.”
Lamai called on Nigerians to embrace collective responsibility as essential for national growth. “The essence of the Megastar Man of the Year Award, culminating into 10 good years, is really to be the wind beneath your wings such that you can continue to soar. It is about encouraging those who are doing good and motivating all of us to do even better,” he said.
He emphasised that leadership and citizenship must be guided by shared values and personal accountability, citing Chinua Achebe’s The Trouble with Nigeria, which identified the failure of leadership by example as the country’s central problem.
“We often move away from collective responsibility. But for true progress, citizens, leaders, and stakeholders must share a pact of values that binds them together beyond religion, tribe, or ambition,” Lamai observed.
Dr. Adeniyi Ifetayo, organiser of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards, explained that the recognition was instituted to honor individuals who have remained consistent and focused over the past decade.
“When we talk about Megastar man in the decade, we are looking at consistency and focus. It’s easy to start something and make noise for one year, but sustaining impact over ten years deserves recognition,” Ifetayo said.
He added that the awards spotlight achievers in five key sectors — governance, real estate, philanthropy, creative industry, and security — to inspire younger generations to persevere and remain purpose-driven.
“We put this together to appreciate those who have been consistent despite an unfriendly environment. We want young people to see their pain, gains, and breakthroughs, and learn from them,” he explained.
Other Distinguished Honorees
Other honorees at the ceremony included Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of ThisDay Newspapers and Arise News Channel, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award in African Media Excellence.
Receiving the award on Obaigbena’s behalf, Director of News at Arise News, Sumner Shagari Sambo, thanked Megastar Media for recognising his principal’s contribution to journalism and public service broadcasting.
“We are committed to delivering news in an unbiased manner, serving the people, and ensuring that citizens get accurate information that empowers them,” Sambo said.
The event, which featured musical performances and a panel discussion, celebrated individuals in both public and private sectors for their contributions to national development and social impact.
Legacy of Excellence
Otunba Daniel holds numerous prestigious awards, including recognition among Nigeria’s 100 most successful businessmen (1993), the MKO Abiola Leadership Prize (2004), the Zik Leadership Award (2006), and the Africa Leadership Prize for Best Performed Governor—accolades that reflect consistent excellence across multiple decades.
He is also Asiwaju of Remo Christians and Losi of Ikenne, traditional titles reflecting deep community trust and respect. These cultural positions further demonstrate his relevance and influence within his community, bridging traditional and modern leadership paradigms.
Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s recognition as Megastar Man of the Decade 2025 celebrates not just past achievements, but ongoing contributions to Nigeria’s development. His sustained relevance across engineering, business, governance, and legislation exemplifies the kind of multidimensional leadership that Nigeria needs for transformative progress.
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.
